[RP] The King

Quote :

Post by post copy from the RP on the TN forum.

Tepeyacac, a few hours after Xuchimatzatzin is proclaimed Huey Tlahtoani of all Aztecs by the Tepeyacac Council of Elders.

Xuchimatzatzin stands in the grand hall. The last couple of days have been hard on him. He has slept only a few hours each night. A lot was to be done. It is just a day ago that he called the Ihittaqueh together, asking them to support him. To support him in the biggest endeavour they had yet to undertake. They had known all along it was up to them, it was the destiny of the Ihittaqueh. It was their task, their duty, their obligation. They had to unite the tribes, forge a nation, fight for the greatness of the Aztecs and the greater glory of their nation. He asked them to support him, to proclaim him, Xuchimatzatzin, Huey Tlahtoani of the Aztec nation, their ruler. And they did, they all did, they pledged themselves to the cause. The following day a new challenge awaited him. He had to get the Elders of Tepeyacac on board. He told them his plans, and they too supported him. Now he was here, he, Xuchimatzatzin, Huey Tlahtoani, and it is up to him to lead the Aztecs to greatness. And that was not the end. Now was the time to request the other tribes to join them, to make alliances, and to wage war. The journey to power and uniting the tribes will not be one of short-cuts or settling for less. They would go all the way.

Xuchimatzatzin stands in the grand hall, bowed over a map. With him are part of the loyal Ihittaqueh. The atmosphere was festive, and there was much to celebrate, but also much to do. Somewhat anxious, Xuchimatzatzin clears his throat ready to speak, only to be disturbed by the sound of the front gate opening. Looking to the door he waits for what is to come.

Zilonen stood alert keeping watch outside the grand hall. Her senses alert she looked at the surroundings once again - for the time all seemed quiet. She allowed herself a moment of reflection - remembering the meeting only a few nights ago when she and many others had proclaimed their loyalty and support to their great leader - and now Huey Tlahtoani, King Xuchimatzatzin. She had shed her own blood in a symbolic act - and would likely shed more.

Her recollections came to an abrupt halt at the sound of a twig snapping some distance away. She waited calmly, her hand went loosely and unconsciously to her ever present dagger. Soon she spotted her comrade Cozamalotl emerge from the dense forest surrounding the Hall. She relaxed as she greeted her.

She glanced around the area once again as they spoke briefly, then turned to escort her into the hall.

The quiet of the early evening shattered as she pushed the large gate open. Glancing around the room she felt all eyes upon her and Coza. Spotting her King she nodded solemnly and gestured for Coza to enter in.

" Huey Tlahtoani, Favoured of the Gods, the Mad Warrior Witch Cozamalotl has come"

Leaning casually against a wall, Wandress watched the room through half-lidded eyes. Assuming she was asleep would be a mistake; her muscles were tense and her hand resting on the hilt of her sword. She should have been relaxed among the Ihittaqueh warriors in the room, except the meeting of the Council of Elders and the acceptance of King Xuchimatzatzin as Huey Tlahtoani had left them jubilant at their victory. Jubilant, but not watchful. She had not slept since the announcement was made, and she had a feeling she would have many more sleepless nights; until the Warriors were up to her standards, she could not trust the King's life in their hands alone.

Her head lifts as the King clears his throat, awaiting his word. The long slice on her hand throbbed absently; her everlasting devotion to her king already proven in blood on the temple stones. The creak of the gate opening alerted her, and in two strides she had placed herself between her king and the entering figures, her sword half-drawn from it's leather sheath. She exhaled in relief and re-sheathed her sword as Zilonen passed through the doors, the Mad Witch following her. Her lips quirked in a small smile to her old friend, the barest nod of her head to her fellow Warrior as she moved aside to let them pass.

Xuchimatzatzin watches Zilonen step through the door and hears her announcing the arrival of Cozamalotl. Xuchimatzatzin smiles at the thought of his warrior witch and what they had been through.

Looking up from his pondering and seeing Zilonen wait for his response he says:

Enter.

Cozamalotl was footsore and weary from her many days of travel. In a pool of water a great distance away, she had watched her brothers and sisters pledge themselves with their blood to the great Warrior King Xuchimatzatzin, naming him Huey Tlahtoani. She had pledged herself in her own way, knowing that he would soon call for her. The call came on the winds and she immediately set out to answer it. After a day and night of travel, she had come upon Zilonen on the road, sent to escort her the rest of the way.

Joy filled her heart at the sight of the grand hall. At last she would stand again before her King in the flesh, and not a mere reflection in still water. At last she would join the Ihittaqueh in this Great Work, not just watch from afar.

Reaching up, she fussed at her hair, then patted her dress. She tilted her head to the side, as if listening to something only she could hear, then hissed.

Would you please be silent, just for a few moments? This is important, and I can't hear myself think. She took a deep breath, released it, and nodded to Zilonen. It's all right. They'll be quiet for a little while. We can go in. Do you think they'll have rabbit stew? I like rabbit stew.

Not waiting for an answer, she stepped through the door to the grand hall. So many faces turned to look. Some she knew from before, others she only recognized from her liquid images. She saw Wandress lurking against the wall and smiled broadly at her, waving.

As Coza reached the King, her face sobered. Reaching into the pouch dangling from her waist, she pulled out the shin bone of a monkey. Many hours she had spent sharpening it, honing it for this one purpose. She knelt before him and drew the boneshard across her palm, allowing the blood to drip from her hand to the floor. She had seen the others do this in her vision and wanted to join in their oath. She watched the trickle for a moment fascinated, then raised her head to meet his eyes.

My King, she whispered. My life is yours. You called and I have come.

Her eyes sparkled up at him. Do I smell rabbit stew?

Watching Cozamalotl walking into the Grand Hall Xuchimatzatzin realises how much he missed her. Long have they been apart. Much she has missed. Hard it will be to see her leave again. But some things must be done, that can't be changed.

Letting his eyes run over her face the beauty of the mad warrior witch strikes him. But her beauty is not to fool anyone, her powers are as much beyond his as the powers of an eagle beyond a mouse.

He feels a swelling pride when he sees Cozamalotl cut her hand and watter the floor in front of him, as all the Ihittaqueh have done before her. Not just a pride for her, but for all of them. For all those chosen for the task upon them.

Seeing her sparkling eyes and hearing her say: "Do I smell rabbit stew?", Xuchimatzatzin laughs. This is the side of the mad warrior witch that he likes best.

Hungry eh? Then we shall eat before talking bussiness. Turning to the guard at the door Xuchimatzatzin says with a grin on his face: Go get us some rabbit stew, and make sure it is a lot, Coza loves to eat.

Turning back to Coza he walks to her and hugs her tightly while whispering in her ear.

You have been much missed, but there are important matters to discuss. Let us eat swiftly.

Coza stood still in the arms of her King, closing her eyes and breathing deeply of his familiar scent. I'm sorry I wandered off, she whispered back. Sometimes I lose track of…things. I'll try to do better.

She broke away when a guard returned with food, and babbled at the surrounding crowd while she devoured the stew they set before her. In between bites, her arms made extravagant gestures to punctuate her stories.

And the woman never did find her shoe, she told them, using a tortilla to sop up the last of her third bowl. Licking her fingers clean, she turned to Xuchimatzatzin and smiled broadly.

If she'd only asked the armadillo family living under her hut, they could have told her the whole story. People just don't think.

Coza watched as the bowls were cleared from the table. The people around her seemed to be anxious and she wondered what she'd forgotten. Her face scrunched up in concentration. Scanning the room, her eyes strayed back to the King and her smile brightened. Business! she said clapping her hands. We have business to discuss! She frowned. We didn't discuss it yet, did we?

Having watched Cozamalotl eat and talking amicable to the rest of the Ihittaqueh Xuchimatzatzin feels the task before him getting heavier. Sending her away, so soon after she has returned. But he also knows she is the right person for the job. She should go. This only proves it more. They need allies, they need them badly. She might have a chance... maybe she will be able to convince Chalco to join their cause.

Xuchimatzatzin stands and answers Cozamalotl's question.

Yes, time for business.

Now that the Ihittaqueh have stepped forward and I am proclaimed king, we need to move forward. In our struggle to unite the tribes, we will gain many enemies, but it is important to gain allies as well. We need to send emissaries to the other tribes, we have to ask them to follow in Tepeyacac's footsteps. We have to show them the right of our actions, show them that what we do is good, that is the best for us all. We should start with the tribe to the north west of us, Chalco's support is of the up most importance. We need to try and gain their trust, gain their help, gain their warriors for our cause, then we will succeed. Only if they deny our cause, refuse to unite and spit on the greatness we can all achieve should we see them as enemies. War, however honourable it may be, will be our last resort. It is not in our interests to slay other Aztecs on the battlefield. We will sacrifice those needed that the gods demand as a blood offering, but it shall be known that we prefer other peoples on our altars!

One of us here has to go. One of us needs to speak to Venus and request her assistance, ask her to sign the proclamation as our elders did, ask her to show her allegiance to her king! For greatness! For the glory of the Aztec nation!

Making a dramatic turn towards Cozamalotl, Xuchimatzatzin addresses her in a much weaker voice.

Coza,... I want you to go.

Awaiting her answer Xuchimatzatzin is silent.

Coza let out a quiet sigh. She had known this was just a short visit, but had hoped it would last just a little while longer. It was only here, beside Xuchi, that the voices in her head quieted enough to let her rest. She knew the minute she walked out the door and back out on the road the whispers would begin again. She accepted it. It was her gift, her curse, and her identity. Oh, but to have some relief, just for a short time, would be so welcome.

She smiled bravely up at him. She could deny him nothing. And she knew he would not ask if it wasn't for the good of them all.

I will do as you ask, my King, she said. And I will meet with this Venus and explain things to her. Surely she misunderstands your intent. How could anyone deny you? Do you think I should bring her a present so she knows we mean her and her people no harm? Pretty stones? Shiny fish scales? Maybe a jaguar cub?

As out of nothing lightning strikes down from heaven, through the ceiling and straight into Xuchimatzatzin's chest. Feeling the electric currency hitting is body, Xuchimatzatzin falls down on the ground. He feels his blood boiling and a pain he has never felt before.

He tries to utter some words, but the power has left him. With his eyes still open he feels the last bits of live ebb out of him.

The gods have called him home.

The crash of thunder rang in Coza's ears and the smell of ozone and burning flesh filled her nostrils. She watched as her precious King was struck. Her knees buckled and she fell with him, crying out, reaching her hands to touch the burnt hole in his mighty chest.

Her head sank and tears of grief spattered across his still form. Voices and whispers rushed in, crowding her head, jostling for her attention. The Ihittaqueh gathered in the hall moved toward them as one, spears and swords drawn in their hands and horror painted on their faces.

Stop! Coza yelled, holding up one hand. Her eyes became cloudy and her already wild hair filtered residual current from the lightening, lifting her locks from her head. Her surroundings disappeared and her vision filled with brightly colored images.

His star shines so brightly
So much power for one man
Blessed by the gods
They know it is not enough

Let doubters flee in his absence
For the gods have tested him
And found him worthy
They have taken him home
To fill him with their gifts

Stronger, more powerful
A god among men
Keep vigil
That which is taken
Shall be made new and whole

He will return


Her vision cleared and Coza sat in silence, her hands still resting on Xuchi's burnt flesh. There was nothing left for her to do but wait. She would not leave his side until he returned to her.

The chilling scream of a dying jaguar tore from Wandress' throat, piercing the air long after the crash of the lightning had faded from the air. Her sword rested forgotten in it's sheath as she bounded across the room, skidding across the stone floor on her knees as she reached the fallen King and his witch. The Witch, she growled in her thoughts, grief and rage clutching her heart. Assassin! She killed him, she... Her mouth twisted in a snarl as her hand reached for the small dagger strapped to her thigh, but the tears and honest grief on the witch's face stayed her hand.

Wandress bowed her head as the witch spoke, swallowing hard and pressing her fists to the floor to keep from trembling. How? How did this happen? The Ihittaqueh was strong, it was going to do great things; the Ihittaqueh was the Aztec nation's only hope for unity. How could the gods strike down their Most Favorite Son?

A chill crept along her skin as the witch fell silent. No. No despair. He will return. May Quetzacoatl grant me the wisdom to recognize him when he does. She swallowed again and touched his lifeless hand. Til your return, my friend. Her face was a battlefield as she stood slowly, her stony calm slowly pushing away her grief. She looked down at the fallen king and the seeress as her jaw clenched and unclenched. The silence in the hall was painful, but the shattered hopes of the Ihittaqueh was plain on everyone's faces.

"This is not over," she said, her quiet words echoing in the silent room, "This is not over! The gods test the Ihittaqueh with this loss. But we are strong! We shall endure, continue, thrive until the King returns. The Ihittaqueh are strong!" Her last words boomed through the room, and she paused a moment as they faded away, before turning to the seeress again. "You. Witch...ah, Cozamalotl. The Ihittaqueh still need you to go to Chalco, and bring them the words of the Huey Tlahtoani. Your task is greater now than it has ever been. I will accompany you, to see it done."

Coza draped her arm across the waist of her dead King and rested her weary cheek against his side. Perhaps if she lent her own body heat to him, he would not grow cold so quickly. She hummed softly to herself as she lay there, waiting for him to return. Surely the gods would move quickly and bring him back to them before too long.

Thinking of the gods filled Coza with bitterness. Always before, she foresaw important occurrences long before they happened. They chose to keep her ignorant in this most important of all events. What good had she been to her King in the moments he most needed her?

She drew a little closer, willing her warmth into his body. As if at a distance, she heard Wandress speaking. Coza hummed a little louder, trying to drown out Wandress. Try as she might, the words still leaked through into her grief saturated mind. She lifted her tear streaked face to look up at the Warrior.

Oh, no, she said, brushing damp curls from her eyes. He will get cold if I leave him. I must stay and wait. He'll be back soon. I failed him once. How will it look if I am gone again when he returns? She shook her head. I know you are Queen now. I will honor your decision. But please, give me just a day or two? He will be so cold.

Dying and experiencing his soul being ripped from his body, Xuchimatzatzin feels as if this is not an ordinary death. From above he sees Cozamalotl and Wandress grieving over his body. No... not only sees, he feels. He feels them hanging over his body, their breath over his face, their tears on his flesh. A connection between his soul and his body still exists, he feels energy in his body still, weak, but ever present.

Turning his head from the scene below, Xuchimatzatzin watches a glimpse of another world. Shocked he focuses again on his body lying there in the grand hall, his friends, the Ihittaqueh, close to it. But the tears and cries of outrage of his friends and followers pain his eyes. Not being able to watch it anymore, he musters his courage and in a dramatic sweep turns his body to face the world he doesn't know and which frightens and interests him immensely at the same time.

Seeing more in this moment than he could have ever seen in 52 lifetimes on earth, a world beyond his imagination, a world so magnificent it is indescribable. Now Xuchimatzatzin knows.

Seeing a figure gesture to come with him Xuchimatzatzin stands, still feeling a link to his earthly body, he follows the figure without looking back.

It was not I who sent the lightning. It was not I who wished to meddle in human affairs. And yet, it still fell to me, Ometeotl, to collect this mortal's soul. I watched as he fell, feeling nothing. He looked neither a fool, nor a hero in that moment. There was nothing obvious about him that might hint at all the trouble he'd caused amongst the gods. The quarrels and bickering had risen to intolerable levels. Was he worthy to lead the noble Aztec people? Was he a fraud? Should he be rewarded…or should he be punished? The gods were divided. Many spoke on the man's behalf and had given their blessings. The mighty Quetzalcoatl himself championed the mortal, defending him against those who felt anger at his rise in power and greatness. Xolotl, lord of lightning had led the opposition, and when it was decided that the mortal should be tested, Xolotl spared not a moment before striking Xuchimatzatzin down with a precisely crafted bolt.

I allowed the fallen king a moment to witness the reactions around his corpse, then gestured him to follow.

"The next days will be difficult, mortal," I said. "You will be tested. If you fail, I will escort you to the lowest levels of the underworld where your soul will be rendered into so much raw meat to be fed to Xolotl's dogs. Prevail, and you will be returned to your people, as the king they believe you to be."

For fifty-two days and fifty-two nights, I passed Xuchimatzatzin from god to god. He spent many of those days running from terrifying creatures, and many more trying to hunt those same beasts. Under the tender care of Xipe Totec, his skin was repeatedly flayed from his body, only to grow back and again be ripped away. He fought the temptations of the goddess Xochiquetzal, goddess of seduction, while she offered him his every desire. He battled the warrior god, Huitzilopochtli, clashing shields and swords in a cosmic cacophony of bravery and strength. In test after test, he proved himself to be every bit the fearless warrior. He was, indeed, Huey Tlahtoani.

When all had been satisfied, the gods gathered around him and bestowed upon him their gifts.

"Xuchimatzatzin, Huey Tlahtoani over all the Aztec people," said Quetzalcoatl on the final day. "We mark you with the symbol of the Jaguar, a permanent, earthly reminder and proof of our blessings. We offer you the speed, stealth, wisdom, and power of the mighty cat. Use them with humility and love, guiding our people with a firm hand, bringing them peace, prosperity, and glory in the conquest of your enemies. Go. You have made us proud."

I gestured to the mortal king, much as I had on our first meeting, and he followed me back through the mists to his earthly destination. I touched his forehead lightly with my fingertips, erasing memories of the time he had spent in our domains. It would be too much for even a mortal of his bravery. Smiling softly, I gave him a slight nudge, and his spirit glided silently back to his waiting body. A mere day had passed in the human realm. His followers still wept and guarded him. Because they had spilled their own blood in sacrifice, sharing their strength with him, his body remained unchanged, though empty of a spirit. Their devotion had kept him alive. I watched as his essence eased back into its mortal shell, and knew that he would rise again with the new sun.

I turned and left him, knowing that human history was soon to be made.

A strange sensation comes over Xuchimatzatzin. Something has happened, but he does not know what. He feels renewed and stronger than before, but it is dark. He can sense people close by, someone stroking his arm, more people in a distance. He knows where he is... the Grand Hall. Lying with his back on the stone floor. How did he came to be here, he does not know. But he is alive...

Feeling his blood starting to flow, slow, but faster and faster. He realises what has happened, the lightning, it has struck him. Is he blind? Why is it so dark. His eyes, he should open his eyes. Slowly opening his eyelids, he sees the sun rising on the horizon. He still lies where he fell, not much time can have past. One night, that is all. He should rise and go back to work, his resolve is greater than ever. There is no doubt in his mind what should be done, his task weighs heavier on him than ever before.

Cozamalotl is next to him. He sees her, but she hasn't noticed he opened his eyes. Xuchimatzatzin tries to speak. But he feels dizzy and faint, and his mouth is dry. The dizziness keeps getting worse. He feels as if he is going to faint. He can't, still so much to do. Breathe! BREATHE! He should breathe!

Gasping for air Xuchimatzatzin shoots up.

Tired. So tired. After the long journey to get home, Coza had already been weary. When the King collapsed, she had planted herself next to him, refusing to move, in case he should awaken and find her gone. A day and night had passed and still she waited, her eyelids drooping heavily.

Just for a few moments, she thought. I'll just close my eyes to rest them. Curled up next to him like an obedient lapdog, she lowered weary eyelids. Behind them, two lizards wore jaunty eagle feathers on their scaly heads and danced together before a crackling fire. Coza smiled and waved at them.

She shook her head and opened her eyes to check on the King. No, no change. Her eyelids burned from spent tears and lack of sleep and she lowered them again. Not for sleep, no. Just to rest them.

A turkey with golden hair offered her a tortilla filled with purple flowers. She thanked him politely but told him she was only allowed to have bananas after sunset. Settling into the dream, she walked with the turkey to a blood-red lake to inspect the fish people for tailrot.

A breath, sucked in and then expelled in a loud gasp, startled her awake. She uncurled her stiff legs and sat up to find Xuchi had returned, just as the gods had promised her. Tears pooled in her eyes and she wrapped her arms around her own legs to hold herself together. Relief filled her, but soon gave way to guilt and fear. Would he be angry that she had failed to warn him? What good was she to him if she couldn't see what would come?

She raised one shaking hand to touch his arm, to reassure herself that his warmth was returning to his body.

The world had been silent for a day and a night, mourning the death of their King. She had ordered strict silence in the chamber; a young warrior had asked when food would be brought, and she answered with a cold stare and a jaw-breaking backhand. Over the night, the other warriors had wisely left the hall; leaving the witch and herself to their grief. Wandress had kept her distance from the pair; she didn't even look at the body. She didn't trust herself not to lose control; already her eyes were red and sore, from sleeplessness, she lied to herself.

She sat, cross-legged on a pile of skins; a map sprawled on the floor in front of her that barely held her attention. She should have been planning the trip that lay ahead of her; planning routes and camp sites, resupply stops and escape trails. Yet, she couldn't think of leaving yet. Not with Xuchi still laying on the floor. Besides, the witch wouldn't leave him either.

A gasp shattered the silence in the hall. Anger flashes through her mind, and her lips twist into a dark snarl. Who would dare... she started, as she lurched to her feet. Her anger froze her feet as she stood, hey eyes widening in disbelief. It looked as if...Xuch was alive? It couldn't be. She took a tentative step forward, and swallowed hard. He looked alive; his eyes were no longer unseeing, his chest no longer still. She took another sure step forward, her chin high and her lips tight. "Xuch..." she paused and cleared her throat, holding out her hand to help him from the floor. "My king, there is much left to be done."

The air fills his lungs; it stings, but the dizziness subsides, and his head starts to clear. He feels his blood flowing faster, every muscle in his body aching, while his body comes back to life. The room has sprung back to life. Where it had been quiet before, servants now run about, and the most trusted Ihittaqueh stand over him. He starts feeling stronger now, stronger than ever before.

Xuchimatzatzin sees Wandress walking up to him, speaking his name, but then putting her hand out and toward him and she says: "My king, there is much left to be done."

Hearing her speak the words, every fiber in his body shouts: "Get up! So much to do!" There isn't a cell in his body that is unaware of the tasks that lie before him, compelling him to stand up and speak...to rule.

Slowing his breathing to a normal speed, he takes Wandress' hand and pulls himself up, his muscles still aching.

With a mouth as dry as the most arid desert, he speaks.

Yes, so much to be done.

A hand holds water in front of him. He takes it, grateful, drinking before continuing.

First, explain to me what has happened.

Warm. His skin was so warm, almost feverish. Coza dropped her hand to her lap and watched as Wandress helped the King to his feet. Feeling wobbly, Coza rose by his side.

First, explain to me what has happened, he said.

She glanced up at him, her attention already moving to the injury in his chest. You died, she said. But you came back. And now everything will be better.

Her eyes narrowed and her fingertips brushed the space where lightning had struck him. It's gone, she said, her voice filled with wonder. The gaping hole had vanished; in its place, a jaguar figure was burned into the skin. She traced over the fevered mark with a cool finger, humming quietly.

I dreamed about feathered lizards, she said, looking up at him with a solemn face. They were very friendly, but I wouldn't dance with them while you were dead.

Xuchimatzatzin smiles at Cozamalotl. Good. It has been one day only - not horrible, nothing lost, nothing happened. They can continue as planned. They will succeed and the tribes will be united. For glory. For greatness.

He examines the mark of the jaguar. He has not seen it before, yet he feels as if it has always been there, right there, on his chest. He puts his hand on the mark, as strong energy lies beneath it. The mark is warm, and Xuchimatzatzin feels his heart beating.

Xuchimatzatzin takes a few steps. Yes, his former strength is returning to him, and he can feel it growing. He takes Cozamalotl's hand and speaks.

Then nothing is lost! A minor set back. We must continue as planned, and swiftly.

Xuchimatzatzin looks Cozamalotl in the eyes.

You must leave. Travel to Chalco, Xochimilcatzinco. Ask for an audience with Venus, Chief of Chalco. Let her see our cause is just. Have her give her aid in our effort to unite the tribes. Chalco must be brought to our side. Take the proclamation, and ask the council of Chalco to sign it. Treat Venus with all respect her position warrants. Do not insult nor slander, regardless of how she may respond.

If your attempts to convince her are fruitless, however much it may pain me, war shall be the only answer. Our warriors with their swords shall convince them of our right. Their blood shall flow as richly as water in our river. The gods shall rejoice.

Then adding in a softer voice, so only Cozamalotl can hear,

Thanks for watching over me.

Xuchimatzatzin turns to Wandress and continues.

Coza can't go alone. You must accompany her, make sure she is safe, protect her and yourself with your sword, and aid her in her task.

You must go. Travel day and night. Do not stop. Try to be there with the new sun. On the fourth day at dawn, I will expect your return.

Wandress stood before her king, her head bowed and her fist over the pale scars on her chest. She held onto herself tightly so she would not shake or tremble; her body, tense and taut, threatened collapse at any moment. It had been a very long night and day, and the stress of the Kings return threatened to overwhelm her. She swallowed hard and lifted her head to gaze at Xuchi as levelly as she could muster, her blue gaze hard and cold. With the barest glimpse at the witch, she gave a curt nod. "I will see your will done, my king. By my blood or my life, this Chief of Chalco will hear your words." Turning to the witch, she barely hid the distaste twisting her lips. "I will arrange provisions for the journey; be ready shortly, wit- er, Cozamalotl."

Turning on her heel she gathered up her white fur cape and her black-bladed sword. Locking eyes with a slave, she pulled the clawed paws over her shoulders and swept from the Hall, the slave dutifully following her. As soon as the doors to the hall slammed shut behind her, she fell to her knees; pent up grief and joy poured from her eyes and lips. The hallway was empty but for the slave that had followed her, who stood against the doors a little awkwardly and fearfully. After a few moments, Wandress was able to collect and compose herself, rising to her feet. Wiping her cheeks with the back of her hand, she took a deep breath and took off down the hall, snapping at the slave a list of provisions and equipment she would need.

She left the temple, storming down the long stairs. A crowd had gathered at the foot of the temple, whispering amongst themselves the multitude of rumours that had been fermenting. With a cold glare, the crowd dispersed before her, knowing better than to try and pry gossip from her lips. The slave skittered off with them, running to fill her list as quickly as possible. Wrapped in her own thoughts, she turned to make her way to her own hut.

With her brow furrowed in thought, Coza watched as Wandress stalked out the door.

She's very grouchy when she hasn't had any sleep, she said turning to the King. More plants in her diet would probably help. Even a brave warrior can get stopped up.

A slave walked past with a platter of food and Coza snatched a tortilla with dizzying speed. Tearing off a piece, she tucked it in her mouth and chewed thoughtfully. Have you thought about my idea? I know you were very busy while you were dead, but I do think we should take a present to this Venus person. She took another bite. When I met with the Wolf Queen I took her a pretty seashell necklace that I made. She liked it very much and let me sleep in the best part of the cave while I was visiting.

Coza took a cup of octli and a chunk of cooked tapir meat from another platter as it passed. With both hands full, she stood on her toes and gave Xuchimatzatzin a peck on the cheek. Thank you for coming back. I was afraid you'd be having too much fun and would stay there.

She turned and headed for the door, then stopped, remembering she hadn't finished her thoughts out loud. I know you said to go now, but Wandress will need some time to do whatever she's doing. And I wasn't dead, so I need a nap. Wandress should sleep too. You should tell her though. I don't think she likes me much.

Coza smiled as she wandered out the door. I should make her a present, she mumbled to herself. That will cheer her up.

You are right Coza, you should both sleep first, I forgot you haven't slept for some time, be here again when the sun is highest, I will have a gift ready by then. You can leave after.

After watching Cozamalotl wander out the door, Xuchimatzatzin turns to the other Ihittaqueh.

For us there is also work. We need to prepare for war, if Chalco does not accept our offer of greatness and glory, we must be ready. Telemachus, Tepoztecal, ready the troops for war. Mezipoe, arrange for the rations. In two weeks time we will march. Let us hope it will not be to meet Chalco's troops to fight against them but instead to fight with them!

After everybody leaves to fulfill their tasks, Xuchimatzatzin retreats to his private chambers, stroking the Jaguar shaped mark on his chest. Now about that gift, he knows just the thing...

Zilonen, come with me, I need your help.

Zilonen stood in the shadows watching everything taking place.

She had watched in shock when Xuchi fell and started forward to defend but sunk to her knees as she realized it was too late. She had watched Wandress and Cozamalotl and confirmed to herself that the King truly was dead.. in her grief she had got up and in a daze left the chambers and wandered aimlessly outside the hall, unable or unwilling to comprehend the tragedy. Finally, she had sat down near the entrance and starred off into space. Occasionally others would glance curiously at the hall but would come no closer as she looked coldly up. Her dagger rested loosely in her hand, although why she still defended her King she truly didn't understand.

She held her vigil the long hours. Her eyes heavy from lack of sleep but not leaving her spot. After a day and a night she still sat in a daze and felt herself finally starting to drift off into sleep. Her eyes closed and her head bowed. Voices from inside startled her back to consciousness. She raised her head when she thought she heard his voice - the King! She stood quickly and entered the hall once again. It was true! - he was alive!

She watched from the shadows as he discussed plans with Cozamalotl and Wandress. A few of the warriors stood near, and it was clear that plans were being made. She emerged from the shadows to make her way over to Tepo when she heard Xuchi single her out.

Startled and curious she crossed the room and bowed respectfully, her heart pounding hard in her chest.

Of course, my king. What will you have me do?