Ch1 - Echoes of Her Mother's Dream

 #Echoes of Her Mother's Dream

A voice once heard through winds of ancient flame.
Still echoes where her mother’s dreams do roam,
She walks alone, yet far away from home.
The Earth is cracked, yet she accepts the blame.

Her eyes recalls the sky her mother knew,
A memory drawn in tears that slowly dried.
For the tribe or a love she must decide.
One path must lift her heart to rise anew.

He holds her hand, but feels the grief inside,
No tender vow can halt the sacred call.
She longs to stay, but knows the night must fall.
The rain she is, she must again be dried.

To love, then lose, then rise through ash and flame.
A soul given for all to whisper her name.

Ch1 - Whispering Rock

 #Whispering Rock

The valley floor was still, the morning dew undisturbed, a shimmering blanket under the faint pre-dawn light. A young girl stirred in her sleep, then awoke with a gasp, her eyes wide with the lingering echoes of a vivid dream. She turned to her mother, her voice hushed with wonder and a touch of awe.

"Mama," she began, "I was in a vast basin valley, much like ours, but a heavy mist veiled everything. Then, fiery flies, glowing like embers, swarmed around me, and suddenly I was on a mountaintop. From there, I could see for miles! A majestic red eagle appeared, circling high above. As it soared, images of our ancestors shimmered in the air behind it. I knew then that this eagle was us – who we have been, and who we are destined to become."

Her voice softened, taking on a more distant quality. "Then, I became another person. I didn't know her, but her face was hidden by the wind, silent and veiled. Yet, I felt a connection so profound, as if I had known her my entire life."

The girl's eyes brightened with renewed intensity. "The earth trembled, and this person now held a sword. It wasn't for violence. I felt it was a symbol of immense power, of a great decision to come. The red eagle landed on her shoulder, and her voice, gentle as a breeze, whispered, 'In the light of the growing shadow, one will rise who must stand still to save the tribe. She will give of herself so that all may thrive. When the time comes, she will walk with another, unknown to her, and they will share in a fate yet unseen.'"

"The dream shifted again, Mama. A great storm gathered in the distance, a looming danger. Then, everything blurred, and I was back on the mountain's edge, the vision slowly fading, leaving only echoes of that person's presence."

Many years have passed since that first vision, its true meaning a mystery then. But countless others followed, and the girl, now known as Whispering Rock, became renowned not only as a gifted healer of the body, but also as a profound guide for the soul's journey.

Ch1 - Morning Star

#Morning Star - Utahna

 Whispering Rock had wed the chief of the tribe, and together they were blessed with a daughter named Morning Star. Within her family, she is lovingly called Utahna. Much like her mother, Utahna has followed the sacred path of healing. Even beyond this she has surpassed her mother’s skill, becoming renowned for her mastery of the healing arts.

We find her now in the midst of a healing ceremony, tending to a sick child. Just as she prepares to begin, others quietly enter the space. She senses their presence, noting one figure in particular—but remains undisturbed. Her focus does not waver. With calm composure, Utahna begins to sing the healing hymn, the sacred words meant to awaken the power of the medicine and call upon the Great Spirit for aid.

Trained with care and precision by Whispering Rock, Utahna moves with confidence and grace, every motion deliberate, every word a thread in the tapestry of the ritual. Her voice, steady and clear, drifts through the room like a breeze through tall grass:

Little root, little flame,
Sleep now warm, breath is tame.
Fever go, breeze come near,
I sing away the aching fear.
Leaf and smoke, breath and pine,
Let the cedar draw the line.
Spirits kind, be still, be near,
Guard this child and hold them here.
I crush the mint, I boil the bark,
The sickness flees where the herbs embark.
Little hands, touch the sky,
You will run before you cry.
Mother earth, lend your ground,
Let the root and bark surround.
Sleep now, child, strong and deep,
The mountain watches. You may sleep.

As the final notes of her chant fade into the air, a hush settles over the space. The child’s breathing slows, growing soft and steady. Rest returns, and peace follows.

All those present exchange quiet glances of awe. Princess Utahna has performed the ceremony with unwavering devotion. It is clear to all that she pours her whole being into the care of others, into every act of healing she brings forth.

Ch3 - A Tragedy of a Love like Ours

All parts below are in a final draft, which includes that all should be in 3rd person and further details have been introduced to the story.

Word count summary:  5262 words, 269 sentences, 139 paragraphs, reading level: College Student, reading time: 19 min 8 sec,  speaking time: 29 mins 14 sec 

**A Tragedy of a Love like Ours**

You might have heard the tale of his great glory,
A warrior brave, in love so deep and true,
And all who knew his name gave him his due,
He fought with honor, here's his own proud story.

His love, the fairest in the kingdom’s sight,
With beauty that outshone the stars above,
A princess radiant with boundless love,
Her grace and charm filled all who saw with light.

Their hearts entwined, a bond both strong and pure,

Together they had planned a life so grand,

But war came, a future no longer planned,

And tore apart a love that would endure.

Will love endure or hearts be left to mourn,
A tragedy about love lost and reborn.

Ch3 - The Hunt

 # The Hunt

At the first light of dawn, the group of warrior friends embarked on their hunting expedition. They were filled with anticipation, hoping to capture the giant deer they had spotted in the dense woods the previous day. Hunting was more than a necessity for them; it was a way to hone their warrior skills and stay prepared for any challenges.

Leading this skilled group was Popocatépetl, celebrated as one of the tribe's most exceptional hunters. His prowess in the hunt was matched only by his impressive feats on the battlefield. Respected and admired by all, his friends affectionately called him Popo. With Popo at the helm, the group felt confident and eager to face the day's adventure.

His best friend, Ajusco, stood faithfully by his right side, as he always had. Their bond was forged through countless adventures and challenges, creating a deep and unbreakable friendship. Together, they had navigated life's many wonders and trials, their trust in each other unwavering. 

Today, Ajusco sensed that victory was within their grasp. The air was thick with anticipation, filled with the quiet rustle of leaves and the distant calls of wildlife. Every warrior felt the tension and excitement building around them. The Nahuatl word for success is "tlācāh," a concept they had strived for and achieved many times together. As they prepared for the hunt, Ajusco felt confident that, once again, tlācāh awaited them.

As Popo started to crouch low in the underbrush, his eyes fixed on the deer grazing in the clearing ahead. With silent precision, he raised the atlatl, the spear resting lightly in its groove. He took a steadying breath, feeling the tension build in his arm. In one fluid motion, he launched the spear with the atlatl, the weapon soaring through the air with lethal speed. The spear struck true, and the deer fell. Once again showing how evident that Popo truely has the warrior's skill.  For he had a clean and swift kill.

Seeing success they all ran to the deer to finish the deed. By kneeling down to pray, Saying, :"O Mixcoatl, mighty god of the hunt, I offer you this deer, taken with skill and courage. Grant me your favor and strength in battle, Bless my hands for future hunts, And guide me with your wisdom in all endeavors. I give thanks for this bounty and ask for your continued protection. May my arrows fly true and my aim be steady. Tlazohcamati, thank you, Mixcoatl, for your blessings."

Everyone in the group congratulating Popo on the kill with Ajusco giving highest praise,  "Tonalli! Popo, your skill with the atlatl is unmatched. Congratulations on the successful hunt! The gods surely smiled upon you today. May this bounty bring strength and sustenance to our people."

Not everyone in the group had the same sentiment as Ajusco. For Citlaltepetl, with a nickname of Orizaba, also  shared the feelings of his jealous heart,  

"I understand your feelings, Ajusco, but know that this success is shared among us all. Each of us contributes to the strength of our group. Let us celebrate together and continue to hunt as a unified force."  Not once being able to recognize the great skill Popo used to down the deer.

You know that awkward feeling when someone says something wrong, but no one wants to correct them? That's exactly how everyone in the group felt as they exchanged uneasy glances. The air was thick with discomfort, each warrior reluctant to speak up and address the mistake. The silence grew heavier, creating an almost palpable tension among them. In an unspoken agreement to break this uncomfortable silence, they gradually decided to return to the village. One by one, they began to turn back, their movements slow and hesitant. The return journey was marked by quiet reflection, each warrior lost in their own thoughts about the day's events and the unaddressed mistake.

Ch3 - Joyous Return to the Village

 # Joyous Return to the Village

Arriving to the village the hunting party is received by everyone. The villagers, young and old, gather at the edge of the village as word spreads of our successful hunt. Children point excitedly while elders nod approvingly, recognizing the skill and bravery required for such a feat. Women begin preparing for the ceremonial rituals that will honor the deer and thank the gods for the bounty.

Cheers erupt from the crowd as they see the deer being carried on top of shoulders.  The sound of drums and flutes fills the air, marking the significance of this occasion. Villagers step forward one by one to offer blessings and congratulations, touching the deer with reverence and gratitude. Gifts of food and drink are brought forth, shared among the warriors and villagers alike as a symbol of unity and celebration.

Throughout the festivities, each member of the hunting party maintains a humble demeanor, accepting the villagers' admiration with grace and gratitude. They exchange knowing glances with each other, silently acknowledging what they have been through and recognizing the bond forged through their shared triumph. They feel connected by a communal joy and solidarity, all acutely aware of how important the hunt and the interconnectedness of village life are to them all.

The chief steps forward, expressing gratitude and praise for the hunting parties bravery and skill. He acknowledges each of them individually, recounting past successes and contributions to the community. Suddenly, everything comes to a halt. The parade, the sounds, and even the scents seem to stop. It isn't the chief's presence that causes this; it is the arrival of Princess Iztaccíhuatl, known as Itza for short, right behind him.

Everything about her is beautiful, from the clothes she wears down to the shoes she has on. She is wearing a vibrant huipil, a sleeveless tunic woven from finely spun cotton, adorned with intricate designs and rich colors of deep blues, reds, and yellows. Each symbolizes her connection to the elements and the gods. Over this she has draped a colorful mantle made from feathers of the exotic quetzal and hummingbird. It is meticulously arranged in patterns that seems to shimmer even when there is no sunlight. 

Her skirt, known as a cueitl, is finely woven and adorned with intricate embroidery depicting scenes from our history and daily life. Each sharing a deep significance, representing her responsibilities and the prosperity of the people. On her feet, she wears sandals made from woven fibers, embellished with beads and precious stones that accentuate her regal stature. 

Her jewelry is elaborate yet tasteful, featuring pieces crafted from gold, jade, and turquoise, symbolizing wealth, power, and her connection to the divine.

Her hair is styled in an intricate manner, adorned with feathers, beads, and even has a headdress known as quetzalapanecayotl, which further emphasizes her status as our princess and spiritual leader.

As the hunting party approaches, the princess steps forward with grace and a warm smile. Her voice is melodic and filled with pride as she addresses the warriors:

"Brave hunters, your return brings great joy and honor to our village. The gods have truly blessed us with this bountiful hunt. Your skill and bravery ensure our people’s strength and prosperity. We give thanks to you all for your courage and dedication.

Popo, your valor shines brightly, as always. Your strength and spirit inspire us all, and my heart is particularly gladdened by your safe return. May the gods continue to guide and protect you in all your endeavors."

Her words are met with a respectful silence, followed by murmurs of agreement and admiration from the gathered villagers. The princess's acknowledgment of Popo is subtle yet clear, adding a personal touch to her praise and reinforcing the bond between them.

Popo, upon hearing the princess's words, steps forward with a respectful bow, his heart swelling with pride and affection. His voice, though steady, carries a warmth that speaks to his deep feelings for the princess:

"Princess, your gracious words honor not just our hunting party but the very spirit of our people. We are deeply grateful for your recognition and support. It is our duty and privilege to serve and protect our village, and we draw strength from your guidance and the blessings of the gods.

Your praise, especially, brings light to my heart, inspiring me to ever greater feats. I am profoundly moved to have brought pride to you, Itza. Your happiness and well-being are my greatest rewards. I pledge to continue striving, not only for the glory of our people but for the joy it brings to you. May the gods bless you and keep you, always."

With these heartfelt words, he bows again, his eyes reflecting a deep, sincere affection for the princess. The villagers, sensing the depth of his feelings, nod in approval, recognizing the special bond between the warrior and their beloved princess.

If one were to glance slightly to the left, they would notice Orizaba grappling with the words spoken. Despite his attempts to mask his jealousy, he steps forward with a respectful bow, a trace of tension evident in his voice as he speaks:

"Princess, your words are as gracious as they are inspiring. We are all honored by your presence and your blessings. This successful hunt is a testament to the collective strength and bravery of our warriors.

Popo's skill is indeed commendable, and we are fortunate to have such a capable leader among us. Yet, let us not forget that it is through the combined efforts of all the hunters that we achieve our greatest victories. Each warrior here plays a crucial role in our success and the prosperity of our people.

I, too, am dedicated to serving you and our people with unwavering loyalty and strength. May we continue to bring honor to our village through our unity and shared purpose."

His words are meticulously crafted to highlight his own contributions, subtly hinting that the praise should be more balanced. The escalating tension between Popo and Orizaba is now unmistakable. What began as a rivalry over hunting skills has clearly transformed into a deeper contest for Itza's affection. The commotion spills into the dining hall, where the celebrations of the successful hunt continue.

Ch3 - Dinner celebration after the hunt

 #Dinner celebration after the hunt

After a triumphant hunt, the Aztec village buzzes with anticipation as preparations for a grand celebration commence, honoring the valiant warriors and their bountiful catch. The evening air is rich with the tantalizing aromas of roasting venison, maize, and a variety of traditional dishes. Villagers converge in a spacious, open area adorned with vibrant pamitl banners, fresh flowers, feathers, and brightly colored textiles. This joyous gathering brings the entire community together to celebrate the hunters' return. It is a time of revelry, with xocolatl flowing freely, symbolizing the abundance and shared joy of the occasion.

Xocolatl is one of the most highly sought-after drinks, crafted from rich cacao beans. These beans undergo a meticulous process of fermentation, drying, roasting, and grinding into a paste. Before the celebrations, this paste is mixed with water, and for an added kick, chili powder is included. The mixture is then poured back and forth to create a frothy texture. The final drink is served in intricately designed vessels, adorned with such intimate detail that one might think they were intended for the gods Mixcoatl, the god of the hunt, or Quetzalcoatl, who is associated with cacao.

Before the communal drinking commenced, a sacred ritual would take place. A portion of the xocolatl was set aside as an offering to the gods, a gesture symbolizing gratitude and reverence. Priests, clad in ceremonial attire adorned with feathers and intricate beadwork, would lead the community in solemn prayers and chants. These prayers were directed towards the gods, particularly Mixcoatl, the god of the hunt, and Quetzalcoatl, who was closely associated with cacao.

The priests' voices resonated with a deep, sacred tone, invoking the divine presence and commemorating the profound significance of the occasion. The rhythmic chanting, accompanied by the steady beat of drums and the haunting melody of flutes, created an atmosphere charged with spiritual energy. Incense, made from copal resin, would burn in nearby braziers, its fragrant smoke curling upwards, symbolizing the community’s prayers rising to the heavens.

As the ritual progressed, the priests carefully poured the offering of xocolatl into a beautifully crafted vessel placed on the altar. This vessel, often intricately decorated with symbols and depictions of the gods, served as a focal point for the ceremony. The community stood in respectful silence, their heads bowed, absorbing the gravity of the moment and acknowledging the blessings bestowed upon them.

This sacred offering and the accompanying prayers not only honored the gods but also reinforced the unity and shared faith of the community. It was a moment of collective reflection, a time to appreciate the successful hunt, and to seek continued favor and protection from the deities. The ritual concluded with a final, resounding chant, as the priests signaled the transition from sacred ceremony to joyous celebration.

As night falls, the festivities begin with music played on drums, flutes, and conch shells, creating a rhythmic and joyous atmosphere. The villagers sit on woven mats around low tables laden with food, while the warriors take seats of honor at the head of the gathering, near the princess and the village elders.

The feast is a vibrant display of communal joy and gratitude. Steaming platters of tamales, bowls of spicy stews, and fresh tortillas are passed around. Gourds filled with pulque, a traditional fermented beverage, are shared among the villagers, adding to the convivial spirit of the evening.

Ch3 - Declaration of Love

 #A Declaration of Love

After the feast and initial celebrations, the mood shifts as the villagers continue to enjoy the festivities. The music and laughter fill the air, but Popo and Princess Itza slip away to a more secluded part of the palace gardens, seeking a moment by themselves.

The garden is bathed in the soft glow of the moon, its light casting ethereal shadows among the flowers and trees. The scent of blooming flowers mingles with the cool night air, creating a tranquil and intimate atmosphere. They find a quiet bench beneath a large, ancient tree adorned with colorful hanging lanterns that cast a warm, gentle light.

Itza looks at Popo, her eyes filled with a mix of tenderness and anticipation. "Popo, tonight's celebration was a testament to our people's strength and unity, but I wanted to share a moment just for us," she begins, her voice soft and filled with emotion.

Popo takes her hand in his, his touch gentle yet firm. "Itza, your words in front of our people were a great honor, but being here with you alone means even more to me," he replies, his voice steady but charged with affection. "Our love is something I hold sacred, beyond the admiration of our people."

He looks into her eyes, his gaze unwavering. "Itza, my heart belongs to you. Your love has given me purpose and strength. I vow to protect you and cherish you for all time. My love for you is eternal, transcending the boundaries of this life. These words I dedicate to you."

Oh radiant flower, princess of the dawn,
In the garden of the gods you bloom,
And your grace outshines the moon,
Your beauty surpasses the golden sun.

I, a humble warrior, gaze in wonder,
At your grace, as the gods’ own blessing,
For you, my love, is never lessening,
With a heart that won’t be torn asunder.

The mountains whisper your sacred name,
In winds that sweep the valley’s floor,
For you, my spirit will ever soar,
A love as ancient as the earth’s frame.

May the gods bless our destined path,
For you, dear princess, I’ll endure all wrath.

Itza's eyes shimmer with unshed tears of happiness. "Popo, your love is the greatest gift I have ever received. It fills my heart with joy and my spirit with courage. I promise to stand by your side, to support you, and to love you with all my being, now and forever."

They share a tender embrace, holding each other close as the world around them seems to fade away. The bond they share is palpable, a connection that promises to endure through any trials they may face. In the quiet of the garden, under the watchful eyes of the stars, their love is sealed with a promise of eternity.

The sounds of the celebration continue in the distance, but for this moment, it is just Popo and Itza, together, their hearts beating as one in a timeless expression of their eternal love.

Ch3 - Request Hand in Marriage

 # Request Hand in Marriage.  

The next day, Popo stood before his family, ready to share his desire to marry Itza. In his culture, family was central to all major decisions. They decided to consult the local priest, or tlamacazque, to ensure the match was perfect. Popo had always trusted the priest's interpretations of future events. So there would be nothing different when considering the marriage to princess Itza. The priest examined their birth signs and found a harmonious match: Popo, born under the day sign "1 Jaguar," symbolizing bravery and strength, and Itza, born under the day sign "4 Serpent," representing wisdom and fertility. Together, these signs balanced strength and wisdom, casting a favorable light on their marriage.  Plus the combination of the numbers unity (1) and order (4) will create a dynamic balance that connects the four cardinal directions and the upward and downward directions.   

With the excellent guidance provided by the priest, Popo now had to ask Itza's father for her hand in marriage. A meeting was arranged with the chief, the council of elders, and his family. In this solemn gathering, held in the chief's council chamber adorned with symbols of power and legacy, they convened to discuss the marriage proposal.

He wisely chose his best friend, Ajusco, an excellent orator, to speak on his behalf.  He begins by saying, "Honored Chief, esteemed members of the council, and revered elders, I stand before you today as the closest friend and humble messenger of Popo, a warrior of valor and conviction. It is with great respect and deep purpose that I bring forth a matter of profound significance, one that intertwines the destinies of two noble souls and seeks to honor the legacy of our people.

Popo, whose heart is steadfast and whose courage knows no bounds, wishes to ask for the hand of your beloved daughter, Itza. He seeks not only her hand in marriage but the blessing of her family and the unity of our clans.

In the spirit of our ancestors and with the guidance of our wise priest, Popo has proven himself through deeds of valor and honor. Today, he stands ready to pledge his life’s strength and his heart’s devotion to Itza, in the hope that their union will bring prosperity and harmony to our people."

Popo learns from the chief that to win Itza's hand, he must first achieve a decisive victory against their enemies. This condition is laid out during a solemn meeting in the chief's council chamber, a room adorned with symbols of power and legacy. The chief, a man of wisdom and experience, looks Popo in the eyes and speaks with a tone that carries both authority and hope for the future.

The chief responds directly to Popo, "Your valor and dedication to our people have not gone unnoticed. You have shown yourself to be a warrior of great skill and heart. However, to prove your worthiness as a protector and leader, you must accomplish one more feat. Our enemies threaten our lands and our people. To win my daughter Itza's hand in marriage, you must lead our warriors to victory against them. Only through such a feat can you demonstrate that you are truly capable of safeguarding our future."

Popo listens intently, his heart swelling with a mix of determination and love. He understands the gravity of the chief's words and the challenge before him. He kneels before the chief, his voice steady and filled with resolve.

"Great Chief," Popo declares, "I accept this challenge with all my heart. I pledge my commitment to both Princess Itza and the well-being of our people. I will lead our warriors into battle, and I vow to return victorious. My love for Itza and my duty to our people will guide my every step. I will not fail."

Ch3 - Depart into Battle

#The Departure

With the chief’s condition accepted, Popo immersed himself in preparations for the impending conflict. He gathered his trusted advisors and fellow warriors in a secluded chamber, the air heavy with the weight of their impending task. Around them, maps of the terrain and sketches of enemy positions covered the walls, serving as stark reminders of the challenges ahead.

Popo, usually stoic and resolute, allowed a flicker of concern to cross his face as they discussed the enemy's strengths and potential strategies. His trusted advisor, Ajusco, voiced the doubts they all felt but quickly redirected their focus to the task at hand. They studied every detail meticulously, recounting previous battles and debating tactics that could tip the scales in their favor.

In the quiet moments before dawn, Popo stole away to the temple grounds. There, beneath the watchful gaze of ancient stone deities, he performed solemn rituals passed down through generations. The scent of copal incense mingled with the soft murmurs of prayers as Popo sought guidance and blessings from the gods. He offered sacrifices, his hands steady despite the weight of responsibility resting upon him.

The priests, sensing his resolve, offered their blessings and words of encouragement. They spoke of bravery and destiny, of the ancestors' spirits guiding them through the trials ahead. Popo, reassured by their faith, emerged with renewed determination etched into his features.

Addressing the assembled warriors in the pre-dawn light, Popo's voice rang out with a mix of confidence and quiet intensity. "Brave warriors," he called, his eyes meeting each gaze with unwavering resolve, "the time has come for us to defend our people and secure our future. Our enemies threaten our lands, but we will not falter. We fight not only for ourselves but for the generations yet to come. Together, we will uphold our honor and protect all that we hold dear. For Itza, for our families, and for our future, we march to battle!"

The warriors, their spirits lifted by Popo's unwavering leadership, responded with a unified cheer. They prepared their weapons with meticulous care, adjusting armor straps and testing blade edges in the predawn stillness. Among them, a palpable sense of determination mingled with a hint of apprehension, a reminder of the gravity of their mission. Yet, fueled by their trust in Popo and the bonds forged in countless battles past, they stood ready to face whatever dawn would bring.

#Battle

As dawn painted the sky in hues of crimson and gold, Popo led his warriors into the fray. The air echoed with the rhythmic pounding of feet and the rustle of armor, each step drawing them closer to the crucible that awaited. Their journey was fraught with challenges, yet they faced each obstacle with steadfast courage and a fierce determination to prevail.

On the battlefield, amidst the chaos and clamor of conflict, Popo's leadership shone brightly. His commands were met with swift obedience, each warrior fulfilling their role with precision born of rigorous training and unyielding camaraderie. Together, they forged a formidable force, pushing forward with unwavering resolve against whatever forces opposed them.

The day wore on, marked by moments of triumph and hardship alike. Through the dust and din of battle, Popo's unwavering spirit served as a beacon of hope and determination for his warriors. They fought not only for victory but for the promise of a future secured through their sacrifice and valor.

The battlefield buzzed with intensity and fierceness, as both sides clashed with unwavering determination. Popo stood at the forefront, guiding his warriors with bravery and clever tactics. Every move he made was calculated to outsmart and outmaneuver the enemy. His leadership sparked a fierce determination in his men, driving them to fight with unprecedented unity and strength.

Through hours of relentless combat, the struggle wore on both sides. Yet, Popo's strong leadership and the resilience of his warriors began to turn the tide. With careful planning and unyielding resolve, they gradually gained ground. As dusk settled upon the battlefield, a triumphant roar rose from the ranks of Popo's warriors. They stood victorious, their hearts pounding with the exhilaration of triumph and the relief of survival. Among them, Popo bore the marks of battle, his armor battered but his spirit unbroken.

After the battle, they took the solemn time to bury their dead and bring back all those captured, to offer them as sacrifices to the gods in thankfulness for their successful victory.

Ch3 - Jealous Suitor Deceives the Princess

 #Jealous Suitor Deceives the Princess

Amidst the chaos of the aftermath and the finishing touches on the battle, Orizaba, driven by his own ambitions and jealousy, seizes an opportunity. Riding back to the village ahead of the victorious warriors, he arrives disheveled, his face a mask of feigned sorrow and urgency. Seeking out Princess Itza, who has been anxiously awaiting news of the battle, Orizaba delivers the devastating message.

"Princess Itza," his voice laden with false grief, "I bring dire news. The battle was fierce, and though we achieved victory, Popo has fallen. He fought bravely, but he is no more."

Itza stands frozen, her world collapsing around her at Orizaba's words. Shock pierces through her, disbelief clouding her mind as she struggles to comprehend the sudden loss. Her heart, once filled with hope and love, shatters into a thousand pieces. Grief washes over her in waves, overwhelming her senses and leaving her unable to grasp the reality of Popo's death.

In her darkest moment, Orizaba steps forward, his voice soft with false sympathy and a hidden agenda. "Itza, my dear princess," he says, his eyes feigning concern, "I cannot fathom your pain, but know that I am here for you. Popo was a brave warrior, but fate has dealt us this cruel hand. Allow me to comfort you in your grief. Together, we can find solace and strength."

His words, though seemingly consoling, carry an underlying desire to win Itza's heart for himself. With calculated gestures of comfort and unwelcome proximity, Orizaba seeks to fill the void left by Popo's absence with his own presence, hoping to manipulate Itza's vulnerability into affection. Yet, amidst her anguish, Itza senses a dissonance, a discordance between Orizaba's actions and the genuine love she shared with Popo.

For days, Itza remains immersed in her sorrow, wrestling with grief and grappling with Orizaba's persistent attempts to console her. The village, once alive with celebration, now echoes with the mournful cries of a princess robbed of her love, and a future shattered by deceit and tragedy.

#Death of the Princess

Consumed by sorrow, Itza withdraws from the world. She rejects nourishment, her body and spirit crushed by the absence of her beloved. The once radiant princess now walks as a ghost, her every movement a testament to her grief. Despite the relentless efforts of her family and friends to comfort her, Itza's despair only intensifies.

In her darkest hour, overwhelmed by anguish, Itza reaches a devastating conclusion. Convinced that life without Popo is unbearable, she tragically chooses to end her own life, hoping to reunite with him in the afterlife. Her decision casts a pall of sorrow over the village, her absence keenly felt by all who cherished her.

Her passing leaves the village draped in mourning, a poignant reminder of love lost and hearts broken.