FINAL - 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.