RP: Kindness Returned

Raederlea

Hearing her door opened without knocking Rae squirmed up from her bed and grabbed the club sitting next to her. She was not going to get beat again, atleast not without getting a couple good swings in. She raised her club up high and just as she was going to swing she heard Coza.

"Drink this, she said, handing Rae the steaming cup. Your distress woke me. It's very loud." Coza said walking in.

"You scared the daylights out of me." Rae said putting her club down shaking her head. She picked up the steaming cup and took a sip. Maybe this would help her sleep. Things were going on around her and she just couldn't stop it. Zagig being in Tlax on trial was making her aunties to say the least. She quickly finished the tea placing the cup on the table. She made a slight face quickly covering it up.

"So why this special middle of the night visit?" Rae said to Coza though sleepy eyes.
_________________

Goddess of Controversy
Tlatoani for Tepeyacac
Prior 3 Term Pochteca of Tepeyacac

Cozamalotl

Your troubles reach out across the village and rattle in my head like dead bees in a dried gourd, she said. The Voices brought me dreams and visions to answer your questions. I will not sleep again tonight. I assumed you would not be asleep either.

Coza plopped down on the floor and poked at Rae's dying fire with a stick. Her eyes narrowed and she examined the stick closely, suspicious that it might come to life and try to beat at her. She grunted at it and tossed it in the fire, watching it turn black and be swallowed by smoke.

You must learn to control what you can control, and let the gods deal with the rest, she said. Badger would never get his den dug properly if he spent his energy helping Squirrel gather nuts. It would waste Badger's time, and Squirrel doesn't need the help. Even if she thinks she does.

Coza rose from her place by the fire and began rummaging through Rae's cooking area. She opened boxes and jars, sniffing and snorting her approval or dismay at the contents.

I don't see how anyone can work in this kitchen, she said, her arm up to its elbow in a bag of beans. No snails, no lizard tails...no tongues of any kind. I suppose it's no secret now why you're skin and bones.
_________________

When keeping brains in jars, here’s a tip: why not add a slice of lemon to each jar, for freshness?.

Keyra

Daily Keyra received reports from the occidental.
She was up to get mad as she was stucked in her responsibility not able to move to anywhere.

She is Pochteca so her destiny is to stay and work for her province.
But her thoughts were somewhere else, not in Chalco but with two special souls to which her own soul belongs to.

Her daily work was lanced with thoughts of them, but although she is in someways always on theirs sides, she felt lonely.
The news took a too long way so she felt sick to be not able to know what is going on in Occidental.

She left the chambers of the tlotocan and went into the jungle.
Her feet seem to knew the way, her thoughts were running fast, so fast she was not able to catch a single thought longer then a second.
Deeper and deeper she walked in the jungle surrounded by the sounds of the animals and plants.

She reached a waterfall with a kind of aura she was not really able to describe.
The air was warm and brumous she sit down on a rock, listened to the steady sound of the waterfall.
Her eyes shut down and her mind seemed to be driven away... far away.
She saw Zag and a smile was put on her face.
Softly she whispered "I love you"

But the picture of Zag blurred in her inner eye and another picture got clearer and clearer.
"Kandy ... I am with you ... be strong .. as I will try to be...for you"

Keyra was not able to see more or to speak more words, it was just a dream... she tried to calm herself down as she opened her eyes again.
Still sitting on this rock in the middle of the jungle in Chalco.
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Raederlea

With one eye brow raised she looked down at her body hearing Coza. She looked at her arms, legs, body. Everything appeared to be fine.

"I'm not all skin and bones" Rae muttered softly so Coza wouldn't hear her.

Rae lay down again trying to rest. It had been so long since she had gotten a good nights sleep. Rae was talking to Coza, but unsure if Coza could hear her.

"I want to go home. Tecmilco is great... just not home." She said as she was drifting off. A few more comments came out of her mouth as she drifted off.

Almost right away it was noticeable Rae was breathing harder and trying to get away from something. This went on for nearly 30 minutes. Coza could hear whimpers come from Rae as she thrashed around then woke up sitting up quickly.
_________________

Goddess of Controversy
Tlatoani for Tepeyacac
Prior 3 Term Pochteca of Tepeyacac

Raederlea

Tears were streaming down her face. She knew she was going to loose Zagig. She knew he was going to die. Raederlea thought back to coming to the new land and what had prompted her to arrive. Zagig. He needed the specific skill set Raederlea had. The feelings kept coming thou, stronger and stronger. She couldn't deny it any longer. He would die and there was nothing she could do about it. It was the feeling of helplessness that was causeing her the pains and the fits of her heart.

"He's going to die you know." Rae said to Coza as she continued to stare at the fire. "There is nothing I can do, but I promise you, they will live to regret it."
_________________

Goddess of Controversy
Tlatoani for Tepeyacac
Prior 3 Term Pochteca of Tepeyacac

Cozamalotl

The tea had taken effect nearly immediately, putting Rae in a deep sleep. Coza nodded her head in approval as Rae's eyes closed and her breathing became even. It wouldn't help with the dreams, but the girl needed to get some sleep.

Coza spent the next hours sitting quietly nearby, humming softly and polishing a human skull so it shone brightly. It would make a wonderful vase to keep dried herbs. Coza was thrifty like that. Always make use of what you have. Throw nothing away.

Rae's sleep became fitful. Coza kept one eye on her and listened to Rae's garbled murmurs of protest. Rae cried out and sat up in bed, her face wet with tears and her eyes wild.

Citation:

"He's going to die you know." Rae said to Coza as she continued to stare at the fire. "There is nothing I can do, but I promise you, they will live to regret it."

She waved her hand dismissively as she fixed a plate of beans and fruit for Rae.

Since when has death ever stopped that one? she asked, licking papaya juice from her fingers. It is nothing to him. Eat. If you aren't going to sleep, you need food for strength. This day will be long.

She handed the plate to Rae, tilting her head in thought.

Nothing in this world is permanent. The gods watch us with jaded eyes, pushing and pulling to keep us interesting to them. Death is no more permanent than life, unless we choose it to be so. Zagig understands this and lives his life fearlessly, knowing all can be rewritten in a night. Be fearless, Rae. Nothing can be taken that cannot be replaced.
_________________

When keeping brains in jars, here’s a tip: why not add a slice of lemon to each jar, for freshness?.

Zagig

Days had passed since the incident in front of Baton Noir's hut. The guards were none to happy he had so deftly slipped through their fingers, that they had been doubled in numbers. Zagig didn't care. His attention since that point had been focused on more important matters. Specifically, he had to make sure that things were taken care of. He knew long before the judge had spoken the words, that they would execute him. Nothing but blood would satisfy these people. So, the night following the day that the verdict was announced, he called Kandy and Oula to his cell. There they discussed the future.

Zagig looked at the two ladies. Both of them were uncomfortable in the room, yet neither would take her eyes from his. He looked from one to the other, measuring them, sensing their feelings. Sensing their anger and sorrow. And then he spoke. “There is nothing to fear. Death cannot hold me, as long as I have those that remember me, I shall live on.” Both girls seemed to brighten at his words, yet each, in their own way, also showed sorrow. So, putting a smile on his own face, he tried to brighten the conversation...

“Magic”, he started, “It is the universal cornerstone upon which this world was built. Even though most do not believe in it. Some attribute magical things to gods”, here Zagig paused to laugh. “Other consider it the fanciful notion of children and the insane. Well, I am here to tell you, Magic is the power that binds us all together, and tears us apart. It is the power that can level a world, or build one. But more importantly, it is the power that we can learn to use for our own means.” Looking again from Kandy's eyes to Oula's, he measured their reactions, and then asked “Would you be interested in learning how to wield this power?” And to punctuate his question, Zagig pulled a dove from what appeared to be the thin air, and let it flutter about the room, until it came back to rest on his shoulder. From the smiles on both of their faces, he knew he had reached them, so he waited patiently for their answers.
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--Celendina

The guard had took the letter as requested by Batonnoir to Celendina. They both rested and talked to Kandy for some time. Finally it was time to leave. Celendina hugged Kandy one last time.

"I am going to tell Rae when I get back what is going on. She needs to know Zagig will die. Perhaps she will come here and help you bring him back." Cel said to make Kandy feel better.

With that said, they left taking the long journy back. Celendina and the guard traveled without sleeping until they reached Tepy. Once safely in Itzo the guard took Celendina to Xuchi. Xuchi had given the guard to Rae when he feared for her safty. They stayed there that night and moved on the next morning.

The food and rest had done them both good.

"Thank God for the break" Cel said as they were close to Raes home. "How do you tell someone that a part of them is dying?" Cel asked the guard as they knocked on the door Rae and Coza were on the other side of.

Cozamalotl

Coza sat cross legged in the hut, the floor covering pulled up in front of her, while she drew figures in the hard packed earth. She concentrated very hard on her work, murmuring softly, pausing to listen to the voices in her head. Her tongue poked out of the side of her mouth, and her brow was wrinkled in thought.

With a short stick, she drew the dream she'd had the night before. Tiny, undefined figures were attacking each other, a large squiggle on one side representing the smoke-man.

She paused again, listened, then rubbed the picture out with her hand.

She drew a hut with two figures inside. A third figure stood outside the hut, one arm raised as if to knock on the door, the other holding something.

Clouds took shape above the building, blocking out the sphere of the sun she'd drawn.

Coza frowned.

Answer the door, she said over her shoulder. Someone is coming. And they have a letter.

She rubbed out the new picture and started on a third.

Also, it's going to rain.

As she began making squiggles and symbols in the dirt, there was a knock on the door. Coza ignored it.
_________________

When keeping brains in jars, here’s a tip: why not add a slice of lemon to each jar, for freshness?.

Kandy

Kandy was no longer in control of her world and because of this, her dreams turned dark. The day after Zagig was sentenced she woke up drenched in sweat, fighting against a formidable but shapeless enemy who left her defeated and bloody. In another dream she sat in an empty arena, the sole spectator of a drama about her life, where she was played by a doll that the other actors danced around.

Early on she had learned to take control of things. There were no helping hands to assist her, no benevolent influences from which she could receive anything she was not willing to work and fight for. And because of that she became the master of her own destiny. For years this is how she lived, in control and afraid of nothing. But now she dreaded the night because dreams would haunt her sleep and leave her feeling powerless.

Zag had sent word that he wanted to see her the next morning and she didn’t want to be depressed or downtrodden during the visit, so she felt compelled to abandon the sparse hut she now occupied alone. She wasn’t sure where she was going, but she had to find a way to come to terms with all that was happening around her, and within her. Before long she found herself in the desert, away from the noise and confusion of Ameca. There, with a flask of water and a small blanket, she laid down hoping that she could find a peace and regain control of some part of her world.

It came to her in her sleep, slithering and winding its way around her body, encircling her head and weaving in between her arms and legs. It wasn’t warm, but it was strikingly beautiful, the dark diamond pattern along it’s back a magnificent contrast to the light sandy scales. Cold, yellow-green eyes that never blinked, staring at her while she lay frozen in slumber. She sensed the deadly serpent all around her, but she wasn’t afraid. Was it real? Was she asleep? She couldn’t tell, though she felt it’s tongue tickle her cheek and giggled out loud, breaking the silence of the desert night. And then she heard the rattle, its soft rhythm lulling her into a deep and dreamless sleep.

The heat of the sun woke her long after she would normally have gotten up. Feeling somehow rejuvenated, she walked towards Ameca, headed to the prison where Zagig was being held until the execution. As she got closer, she saw Oula and greeted her with a warm embrace. Oula had been so helpful during the trial, and she knew that the pretty Tlax woman had grown to care for Zagig too.

When they entered his cell, Kandy’s heart skipped a beat. Those green eyes would always make her tingle when she saw him. But she couldn’t allow herself to think about what lay ahead. She had to focus on him smiling at her now, and his child that she carried. Then he began to speak of magic, and the power that it held.

Zagig a écrit:

“Would you be interested in learning how to wield this power?”

Smiling as the dove landed on his shoulder, she did want this power. She wanted control of her life back. Zagig had taught her so much, but she knew that there was so much more she could learn from him. Moving to sit by his feet, she beamed up at him.

“I do want to learn of magic, Zagig,” and she proceeded to tell him of her night in the desert and the tickle on her cheek.

_________________

Skykat

Visions have started again. Sky hasn't had visions in years. Many many years. They never made sense to her but she realized they came stronger when something was about to happen concerning Zagig. Since she carried his daughters a little piece of him stayed deep in her heart and soul forever. Over the last few days the visions grew stronger. Her head constantly ached. She needed to see if she could figure it out.

Sky walked into her hut and pulled the cloths over the windows. The room was enveloped in darkness. Clearing the center of the room of all objects. Sky grabbed the blood red candle she used for this purpose. Sitting cross legged on the dirt floor, candle placed in front of her, Drawing a circle around her.

Completely relaxing herself, eyes closed and chin dropped to her chest. Sky began a light chanting to the darkness. Her body slowly began rocking. Feeling the warmth tingling begin in her spine, traveling to her head. She knew it was time. Tell me, what am I missing.? The sounds of buzzing filled the air, growing louder and louder. Sky saw a single butterfly flutter threw the empty room, suddenly it burst into flames. Screaming...Anger...Hatred Screaming filled Sky's head. Beads of sweat began building on the nape of her neck and her forehead. A dark cloaked figure appeared in front of her. Her eyes open and looked at the figure. Death. Zagig was to die. Sky felt a fire hot impression of a hand grab her left shoulder. She cringed at the pain. A ice cold wind swept threw the room blowing out the candle. Sky snapped awake, though the burning sensation still remained in her shoulder.

He needed to know she was here for him....and Kandy if she so requested. Sky walked over to the table and pulled out a parchment. Unsheathing her dagger, in one solid slice, her hand began to bleed. She rubbed the blood to cover the surface of her hand. Stamping the impression of her print onto the paper. She signed her name.

If she knew Zag like she believes she did. He will know full well what she means. Folding the paper, Sky handed it to one of the neighborhood boys. Gave her instructions and handed the boy 100Q for his service. Make sure he gets this or I will hunt you down boy!
_________________

Oulaup

[Amecameca...]

Le verdict était donné, la sentence était tombée… Zagig allait être exécuté. Tout au long des plaidoiries, la traductrice n’avait pas parlé, d’une, elle n’avait pas droit à la parole et de deux, nul ne devait avoir de doute quant à la relation d’amante qu’elle entretenait avec l’accusé… le défendre aurait été la condamner inutilement… l’empêchant d’aider Zazig. Il lui était plus utile de traduire...
Elle pouvait maintenant le crier haut et fort, plus rien de l’arrêterait… Elle pourrait aussi dire que l’accusé avait été lésé à cause de tous ces changements de juges et de procureur… elle l’avait déjà fait savoir un peu partout et ne se priverait pas de le répéter…

Zagig l’avait fait mander dans sa cellule, elle et Kandy, avait-il dit…
Oula arrivait à la porte de la prison quand Kandy la rejoignit… Sans un mot, l’aztèque embrassa la tlaxcaltèque qui, à son tour l’enlaça… La Fouine appréciait la belle guerrière, dès leur rencontre initiale, elle avait ressenti une grande affection, du respect, de la tendresse… et même une petite attirance physique…
Elles partageraient ce diable d’homme, ensemble ou séparément… Ni pour l’une ni pour l’autre cela ne posait de problème… elles aimaient le même mâle, mieux valait le partager que de ne pas l’avoir du tout et cette nouveauté plaisait à Oula.

La Fouine laissa passer Kandy afin qu’elle puisse entrer en premier… Un sourire attendri aux lèvres, elle remarqua le petit ventre rond de la jeune femme… "l’enfant de Zag" , murmura t-elle, pensive…
L’une derrière l’autre, elles pénétrèrent dans la cellule froide, male éclairée… où était enfermé le prisonnier aimé... contraste saisissant entre ténèbres et soleil brillant à l’extérieur...… Pour Kandy, amour complice, de confiance mutuelle, d’entente, où chacun a sa place… amour de longue date…
… Pour la jeune coyote, amour passion, amour entier, amour des corps qui fusionnent dans ces moments furtifs volés aux geôliers… Amour naissant…

La maternité de Kandy avait laissé flotter un sourire sur les lèvres de la Fouine et celui qu’elle arborait en voyant Zagig fendait et illuminait son visage… Nulle envie de montrer chagrin, angoisse, peur… peur qui la tenaillait… l’horreur de voir exécuter de cette manière ce guerrier qu’elle adulait… Il n’avait pas besoin de voir des femmes désemparées…

A peine arrivée, elle plongea son regard de braise dans les yeux félins… ses yeux verts l’attiraient comme des aimants… cette lueur centrale, couleur des flammes de l’enfer, donnait des étincelles à l’œil se posant sur elle, embrasant son esprit, son cœur et son corps…
Le bel aztèque se mit à parler de magie… il avait un peu expliqué à Oula ce qu’il en était, mais elle attendait plus d’informations, plus de détails, des preuves…
"La Magie," commença t-il par dire, "c’ est la pierre angulaire universelle sur laquelle ce monde a été construit. Même si la plupart n’y croit pas…
Certains attibuent les choses magiques aux dieux”

Quand, en plus d’avoir prononcer cette dernière phrase, il se mit à rire, la coyote ne broncha pas mais, instinctivement, serra les dents et les poings… comment pouvait-il dire cela devant elle, elle qui, en tant que coyote, suivait le Tonalamalt, croyait en ses lois et dans les dieux, les honorait… Etait-ce un test de cet homme démoniaque?...
Elle trouverait bien l’occasion de le lui glisser dans le creux de l’oreille que cela la blessait encore...
Plus tard… ce n’était pas le moment… mais il ne perdait rien pour attendre...

Tout comme venait de le faire Kandy, elle alla s’asseoir à ses pieds, lui faisant face, elle ne le quitta pas des yeux… la colombe qu’il fit apparaître sur son épaule la stupéfia… Elle se mit soudain à douter de ses propres croyances… Etait-elle vraiment occidentale ?...
Elle voulait en savoir plus, apprendre, découvrir… soif de connaissances… Avec Zag, elle allait apprendre et elle ne serait pas seule à le faire…

"Je veux aussi apprendre la Magie, Zagig,” déclara Kandy en commençant l’histoire qu’elle venait de vivre dans le désert...
Presque à l’unissons la Fouine répéta…
« Je veux aussi apprendre la Magie, Zagig,”
*************************************
TRANSLATION

[Amecameca...]

The verdict was given, the sentence was dropped ... Zagig will be executed.
Throughout the argument, the translator did not spoke, one, she had no right to speak and two, no one should have doubts about the relationship of lover she had with the accused ... Defend him would have ordered to condemn her unnecessarily ... stopping her to help Zazig. It was more usefull for her to translate...
She could now shout it loudly, nothing to stop her ... She could also tell how the accused has been trouble by all these changes of judges and prosecutors ... That this trial hadn't been fair for him... she had already informed everywhere and will not hesitate to repeat it ...

Zagig had sent for her to come in his cell, her and Kandy, he said ...
Oula arrived at the door of the prison when Kandy joined her... Without a word, the Aztec kissed the Tlax girl, which in turn embraced her ...
-La Fouine appreciated the beautiful warrior girl, from their initial meeting she felt a great affection...respect, tenderness...even a little physical attraction for her...-
They will share this amazing man, together or separately ... Neither for one nor for the other it did not pose any problem ... they liked the same male, the share was better than not having him at all... and this novelty pleased Oula...

The Weasel let Kandy pass in front of her so that she will enter first ... A smile touched Oula's lips, when she noticed the little round belly of the girl ... "Zag's child," she murmured thoughtfully ...

One after another, they entered the cold cell, hardly enlightened where the loved prisoner was imprisoned... striking contrast between darkness and bright sunshine outside ...
... To Kandy accomplice love, mutual trust, understanding, where each got place, giving freedom to the other... love for many moons...
...For the young coyote, passionate love, love in its whole integrity, love of bodies merging in those stealth moments stolen to jailers... drawning love ...

Kandy's motherhood had let a floated smile on the Weasel's lips and, the one she wore in seeing Zagig, split and lit up her face... No desire to show sorrow, anxiety, fear ... the fear that gnawed ... the horror of seeing the adored warrior executed in this way ... He did not need to see helpless women ...

On her arrival, she dived her fiery amber gaze into the feline eyes ... his green eyes attracted her like magnets ... this central light, color flames of hell, gave spark to the eye he was landing on her, igniting her head, her heart and her body
The handsome Aztec began to speak of magic, he had just told Oula what it was, but she expected more information, details, evidence ...
“Magic”, he started, “It is the universal cornerstone upon which this world was built. Even though most do not believe in it. Some attribute magical things to gods”When, in addition to pronouncing this sentence, he laughed, the coyote did not flinch but instinctively clenched teeth and fists ... how could he say that infront of her... As a coyote she was following the Tonalamalt, believing in its laws and the gods, honoring them ...Was that evil man testing her?...
She would find much occasion to drag into the hollow of his ear that still offended her... Later ... it was not the right time ...but he lost nothing by waiting...
(don't know if you say that in english^^)

As had done Kandy, she sat down at his feet, facing him, she did not leave his eyes ... Dove he made appear on his shoulder dumbfounded her...
She suddenly began to doubt about her own beliefs ... Was she really an Occidental? ...
She wanted to know more, learn more, discover everything... thirst for knowledge ... With Zag, she would learn and she won't be alone in this ...
“Would you be interested in learning how to wield this power?”

“I do want to learn of magic, Zagig,” said Kandy starting the story she had lived in the desert ...

Almost in unison, the Weasel repeated ... "I also want to learn magic, Zagig,"

_________________
NK=NK, RK=RK, here it's NK don't forget it-NK=NK, RR=RR, ici c'est NK, ne l'oubliez-pas!

Raederlea

Raederlea watched Coza with a baffled look on her face and then heard a knock at the door. She got up keeping her eyes on Coza. "Hmmm I don't know how you do that." She said.

As Raederlea opened the door her eyes became wide as Cel praticly knocked her down to hug her. Celendina burst into tears as she started telling Rae everything. Rae kept an emotionless look at on her face.

"Here, this is the final thing I will do for that vile man." Cel said handing Rae the letter Batonnoir wrote her.

Rae opened the letter and silently read it.

Dear Raederlea,

I'm very thankfull you sent me your slave. She healed me and I'm recovering much faster now. I do not know What had happened if she wouln't Had been here ... For all of this, I'm very thankfull.

By the way, I want you to know that I miss you and I'm very disapointed by the current events in Amecameca. But I'm sure you are not involved in this odd trap. I trust you.

As I said to Celendin, all of this made me a new man. I'm not the same anymore. I have changed: now I'm peacefull. This is the way I intend to follow.

About her, this is a very dedicated woman. She went here by Tlaxcallan afraid, and I've done all my possible to treat her as well as possible. By the way, her shyness has not kept her becoming a talented healer.

I wish you well in Tecmilco look. I hope I will meet you here again one day. I will do all possible to get my Zazig released.

My best wishes

Batonnoir

"He missed me" Rae repeated from the letter with a baffled look on her face. How could this man be what Celendina said yet speak of feelings and emotions that Rae was told he didn't poses. Realising people in the room were likely looking at her she wiped the emotions off her face and spoke to Cel.

"Batonnoir said you did an excellent job my friend. I thank you for that. Please stay here and rest." She smiled at her guard offering both of them a seat as she worked to get them some food.
_________________

Goddess of Controversy
Tlatoani for Tepeyacac
Prior 3 Term Pochteca of Tepeyacac

Zagig

Zagig looked from Kandy's face to Oula's and back to Kandy's. They were both attentive to him. Concentrating on his every word. He needed them as much as they needed him. Perhaps they didn't realize that yet, but soon they would. Putting a smile on his face, he said, “Then let us begin..”

In a basket next to him, Zagig removed some short pieces of braided hemp rope. And placed them on the small fire he had burning between them. The rope smoked instantly, and the heady fumes left everyone slightly light headed in the matter of just a few minutes. Slowly Zagig started swaying back and forth, watching the girls as they began to mimic his motions. Somewhere in the distance a slow drum beat began. And Zagig began intoning some words that only he knew. Words that once heard would not stay in your memory. And the smoke grew thicker...

The room was filled with the smoke, as Zagig kept feeding sections of rope to the fire. The smoke climbed the walls, and meandered its' way through the hole in the ceiling. Inside, the three of them were all chanting the same words together..rhythmic in cadence, yet slipped from the mind.

Oula and Kandy both began experiencing visions...so with a strong steady voice, Zagig steadied them. “Look into the eyes of the vision. See that which is only being revealed to you. Learn from them. They will be your guides. They will teach you to find the first step...” And then he went back to the slow rhythmic chanting as before...

What the girls envisioned was their own private thoughts. What Zagig saw of them, he did not share. But each was shown their guides. They were each assigned their first tasks, and each had to retrieve their familiars. They had been shown the first step in a long stairway.

But that is not where the evening ended. For Zagig feed even more fuel to the fire. Special treated logs, that had been soaked in special mixtures of grotl and pulque. He also added some mushrooms to the fire, and a log that had laid in the damp til it had grown molds of blues and greens. All these things he added til the fire blazed up brightly. And the smoke billowed from the vent in the roof.

The smoke stretched out across the land, driven by small breezes into all directions. It sailed across rivers and open plains. It carried over mountains, and across canyons. And it went to some very specific houses. Places were people that Zagig cared about lived.

And as the smoke entered their homes, the three of them in Ameca began seeing visions of them. Visions that seemed so real, that it felt as though they came to them. Raederlea, friend and confidante, Marslynn, sister and friend. Dajia and Thalassa, daughters. Keyra, lover and friend. SkyKat, his daughter's mother and close friend to him. Atotoztli, friend. And into the houses of three others. All close friends. Until the little cell seemed over crowded with people. And yet, the drumming never stopped. And the smoke never ceased.

Reaching into the pouch out his side, Zagig withdrew tortillas. And began breaking them into pieces. These he soaked in tequila to soften. Then he arose from his position, and present one piece to everyone there. “Take this as a token of my love for each of you. Consume it, and remember me.”

After giving a piece to everyone, he moved to the center of the room, and addressed them all. “Tomorrow they take my heart from me. And I begin a terrible journey that I may not return from. But, with your love and support, I will find my way home. But, I know not how long it may take. So, for my last meal, I wanted to share it with you all.” Raising his piece of tortilla as if toasting, Zagig took it into his mouth and savored the flavor. “I will not forget you my dearest of friends and family...do not forget me.” Then he raised his tequila, again toasting them and swallowed it down in one drink.

The smoke hung heavily in the room. And no longer was there silence, as everyone could be heard speaking at once...

Zagig listened to each of their words...
_________________

Raederlea

After everything settled, everyone laid down to sleep. Rae was still so very sleepy from all the rest she missed. She set the letter from Batonnoir down beside her. It didn't take long before she drifted off into a deep slumber.

She woke to hearing Zagig speak.

“Tomorrow they take my heart from me. And I begin a terrible journey that I may not return from. But, with your love and support, I will find my way home. But, I know not how long it may take. So, for my last meal, I wanted to share it with you all.” Raising his piece of tortilla as if toasting, Zagig took it into his mouth and savored the flavor. “I will not forget you my dearest of friends and family...do not forget me.”

Her eyes scanned the room. All of their closest friends and Zagig family were there. After hearing Zag's words everyone seemed almost stunned.

"Zagig, part of my heart will die when yours is taken. When your journey ends, ours hearts will return. I will await your return." Rae said as a tear rolls down her cheek.
_________________

Goddess of Controversy
Tlatoani for Tepeyacac
Prior 3 Term Pochteca of Tepeyacac

RP: Kindness Returned

Raederlea

Raederlea's eyes looked over the reports of the dead and injured. Clearly much blood was spilling, some of it needless. Battles would be battles and war would be war. The one thing that was clear to Rae was the dead would never be useful. There was simply nothing to gain after death had taken their souls.

"Baton Noir." were the soft words that escaped her lips.

Her mind ran back to the talks she had with him when he was in Tecmilco. Eurydice, a very close friend, was having problems with him. Eury had a simple request for him,to leave. He was not on the same page with Eury and didn't seem to be going anywhere. Rae's diplomatic skills were strong so she had conversations with him and the next day he left. While she had heard what a vile evil man he was, he had shown her nothing but kindness. He had spoken softly to her and actually ended on a pleasant note. She had told him if she could ever be of help to him, to let her know.

"It's time to return your kindness M'lord." Raederlea said with a slight grin.

Rae shook her head with a slight giggle. Zagig. Of course the Lord of Chaos had been the one to do the damage. Who else? Her mind went back to the ship she had hidden away on as a 17 year old. She needed to get away, couldn't take anymore and knew she would die if she remained where she was. Zagig had been the one to find her. Rae was young and beautiful, but smart and cunning. Zagig had admired all of those qualities and had quickly taken her as someone he watched out for. He protected her and always would. She had always loved the man as if he were a father.. a protector. This would never change.

"Zagig." Rae said a tear rolling down her cheek.

Getting up Raederlea quickly arranged for two ladies to get ready for a journey. One of these would go with supplies to Zagig and help Kandy to mend him. The other would go to Baton Noir. She had a favor to repay and this would be a way of doing it. She would repay the kindness he had shown her, by making sure while injured he was cared for.

Celendina stood before Raederlea waiting for Rae to explain what she needed. She looked much like Rae. When Rae needed to go out and safty was an issue Cel stood in for Rae. She and Cel had become good friends and she would dearly miss her.

"The gentleman you are going to is Baton Noir. He was all but killed by Zagig. Batonnoir had once shown me kindness and by sending you to help heal him, I am returning the kindness. Do what you can for him and please give him this." Rae said as she handed her a letter. "I shall miss you my friend. I will send my favored guard with you to keep you safe." Rae added giving her a hug.

The letter read as followed:

Baton Noir,

I hope this letter finds you in better health than what I have heard. I am Raederlea. Hopefully you remember me. I am sending my lady to help attend to your wound. I am repaying the kindness you once showed me. Please send her back safely when you are no longer in need of her services. My sending her was an act of faith. Should she or her guard be harmed it would deeply wound me which is something I know you do not wish to do.

Raederlea

Batonnoir

Batonnoir, the choosen one, was beddridden on a carpet, seriously injured by zagig's henchmen, while they have been attacking the castle of Amecameca, last border before the occidental council. The choosen one, who lead, headed numerous battles over the last years, was reduced at one assisted state. His body, covered by blood and sweat, inspired pity.

No one deserve such forfeiture. And even now, some would prefer have had him killed rather than alive. The outcome was unavoidable.

His own thoughts were mixing rapidly in his mind. Poked by humans, Batonnoir rose up his eyes to the ceiling. Meanwhile what, a woman had entered quietly in the lodge, letting down a letter on the ground.

Missing his skills on reading it, he asked her to read.

Baton Noir,

I hope this letter finds you in better health than what I have heard. I am Raederlea. Hopefully you remember me. I am sending my lady to help attend to your wound. I am repaying the kindness you once showed me. Please send her back safely when you are no longer in need of her services. My sending her was an act of faith. Should she or her guard be harmed it would deeply wound me which is something I know you do not wish to do.

Raederlea

He didn't know what to think about. He would have ripped off the letter...but he didn't. How? How a person, a woman...who seated on the tepeyacac's council for a long while...could be, in the same time, agressor and healer. How could it be? How will it be able to distinguish whether the evil or angel face was the true one?
_________________
Pochteca occidental et Calpullec d'Amecameca

--Celendina

Celendina looked down at Batonnoir. She kneeled beside him and began to unpack her bags. He needed much care. She was not sure why Raederlea had asked for him to have special care. This was not a typical request, but one Cel would honor as it was requested by Rae.

"This may hurt." Celendina said cringing as she would see the change of expression. She continued cleaning the wounds and the skin around it. She was careful and gentle as she made sure a complete job had been done.

"I have been commanded by Raederlea to care for your wounds. Her favored guard and myself are to stay with you until you have no need for us. Hopefully your wounds will heal fast" She said quietly. "I will sit over there until you need me." She quickly got up and moved away her fear was clear for all to see.

"Should you have any questions, just ask." Cel said meekly.

Raederlea

Raederlea was exhausted. Her responsiblities as Trade Minister and now Chief of Tecmilco were more then enough to keep her busy. Her position on the council was taxing her at best. Three armys were out and about and one seemed to be in danger.

Since the Captain was out province Rae had also been looking over the battle reports. These seemed to be the hardest to look at. So many dead, and so many wounded.

"Rae, Here are some letters that came in for you." The delivery person said dropping them off for her. These letters would hopefully be just what the doctor ordered for her. They were letters from the two ladies she sent over to heal.

The first letter was from Zagig healer.

Raederlea,

I hope this letter finds you in a better place and situation then I am in. I have found Zagig and he is in rough shape. I have been working on healing him. But there is more news that will trouble you I fear. Zagig has been put on trial. They wish to execute him. It is far to early to tell the outcome, but rest assured, I will keep you updated. Prayers are needed for a positive outcome.

Lensa

She closed her eyes and began shaking her head. How could this possibly be happening. How could they have done this much damage to the one she cared most about.

"Zagig, I will find a way." She whispered to herself.

Looking at the next letter, Rae opened it. It was from Celendina. Hopefully this news was to be better then the last.

Raederlea,

I have found my way to Batonnoir. He is in very bad shape. He had me read your letter to him but with no real comments in return. This man is to be feared Raederlea. You see the good in everyone. Perhaps I am the opposite of you and see the bad, but this man scares me. I will stay as you requested but please pray he will recover quickly. Rest assured his wounds will heal and he will be as good as new.

Yours in service,

Celendina

Rae was pleased to hear that he would be good as new. She sat thinking for a long moment what could be so scary about him that Cel would be bothered. Now granted, she had not seen him in person, but she had heard storys about the great war general and his battles with Xuchi. All Rae could do was shake her head.

"I really need to be there." Rae said with a sad tone to her voice.
_________________

Goddess of Controversy
Tlatoani for Tepeyacac
Prior 3 Term Pochteca of Tepeyacac

Batonnoir

Lying down over the carpet, he felt unsecure when something started to touch his skin. Raising his head, looking up his body, Batonnoir watch the woman cleaning his legs, in a gracefull way. Then, once the job accomplished, she turned back and sat down.

I have been commanded by Raederlea to care for your wounds. Her favored guard and myself are to stay with you until you have no need for us. Hopefully your wounds will heal fast...I will sit over there until you need me.

She got really humans skills in healing, and looked as a very quiet woman, apparently reserved. She was definitively not a punk, and has probably trained herself for years. As she was sitted nearby, he could be able to scan her face for a while. Then, he put his right hand up.

Sorry...please bring me paper. Something has to be revealed. It can't wait for long.
_________________
Pochteca occidental et Calpullec d'Amecameca

--Celendina

"Sorry...please bring me paper. Something has to be revealed. It can't wait for long." Batonnoir requested.

Celendina looked at her guard with a scared look on her face. She looked around getting what he had requested handing it carefully to him.

"I will request dinner for you. There are many healing herbs that will aid in your recovery. Those will be added." Celendina said putting her hand on Batonnoirs head checking for a fever.

"Good, you seem to be moving in the right direction." She said after he took the papers from her hand.

--Celendina

Celendina moved back over to her guard. Perhaps it was time to get dinner, so she took him by the arm and walked out the back to speak with one of Baton's men.

Walking in she looked down noticing he was not there.

"What the ..." She said looking at the guard. "He was here 15 minutes ago." She walked back to the front and looked out. Using cruches, limbing with another male with him was Batonnoir walking towards the "Hall of Law".

"Zagig's trial." She said shaking her head and grabbing something to write with for herself.

Raederlea,

I am reporting back that Batonnoir is up and moving around abit. He is using crutches and with another person just moments ago moving towards Zagig's trial. I did ask the person who will bring the food for BN and the answer was a firm no. Noone from Tepy is allowed to attend. I will ask him what happened when he comes back. The worst he can say is no right?

Yours in Service,

Celendina

Raederlea

Tossing and turning, Rae just couldn't sleep. She was unsure if she was just out of her surroundings in Tecmilco or if perhaps there was more to it. The battle reports were killing her. Each and every one met her square in the face. Rae was a diplomat not a fighter.

She had met with their Captain over the weekend, Atecoatl. The meeting had accomplished most of what she had desired. She knew the goal was to execute Zagig. Every time she thought about it, her heart broke into just a few more pieces. The pain at times seemed almost more then she could endure.

If she felt like this she could only imagine how Kandy must be feeling. Kandy. She knew she had been injured but was not sure how badly. She knew the person she sent would also take care of her. Rae sadly closed her eyes.

Rae had spoken to those around her about leaving, but this simply was not going to happen if anyone in Tepy had anything to do about it. They all had good points. Rae would likely not be let in to watch the trial. She could also be killed on the way there. Death didn't scare her.

She would have happily given her life to save Zagig. Did she love Zagig? The bond between Rae and Zagig was one of great strength. They loved each other yes, like a father would love his child. He was fiersly protective of her. But her protectiveness matched that of his for her.

She wondered how Celendina was doing. Nothing really scared Cel, but Batonnoir did. She wondered what it was about him. Had he attempted to harm her and Cel had just not told Rae. No, that could not be it. Cel had Rae's guard with her. Perhaps in her next letter Cel would give more details.
_________________

Goddess of Controversy
Tlatoani for Tepeyacac
Prior 3 Term Pochteca of Tepeyacac

Raederlea

Raederlea woke up with a jolt. She could hear fighting all around her. She couldn't tell who was screaming. Women were running with their children. Chaos was everywhere. In an attempt to wake quicker she was shaking her head. She could see clubs flying.

"God be mericful" She whispered to herself grabbing her club heading outside to defend.

As she exited her room she felt a club hit her. Blackness. Completely blackness. She could hear no noises, and see no people. The silence was deathening. It was as if she was in a sleep she could not wake from.

"Raederlea.. Rae.. Wake up." were the voice she finally heard.

"What happened? What's going on? My head... urg.." Rae whispered softly resting in her own blood.

"Tecmilco was taken. Occidentale, that is the group that did this." The person who was tending her wounds said.

Raederlea's eyes opened wide. Occidentale was where Batonnoir was from. Not only did they have Zagig, but now they had the town she was chief of.

"We take this town back tonight." Rae said sitting up feeling the pain of the battle run thru her body.
_________________

Goddess of Controversy
Tlatoani for Tepeyacac
Prior 3 Term Pochteca of Tepeyacac

Batonnoir

Batonnoir hadn't left yet to the zazig's trial, he had to do something before. While Celendina was in the restroom, he was leaning on a barrel (containing water), in the hut's back. He was cleaning gently an obsidian knife, using a cloth, smiling. When all of that was done, he rested on his crutches and started walking back to his carpet. He hold his sacrificial knife on the left hand and began to giggle, insidiously
_________________
Pochteca occidental et Calpullec d'Amecameca

--Celendina

Celendina had excused herself to use the rest room and clean up after she had felt his forhead. His eyes, there was something about his eyes. She hated looking into them. This man was the devil himself. She just knew it.

Cel listened at the door hearing a giggling that was so strange and so evil she could not bring herself to leave the bathroom. She knew that Raederlea wanted her to stay and care for him, but she just couldn't.

She climbed up and out the window. The guard left inside could take care of herself, or atleast she hoped he could. It was time for her to leave. The only people she knew were here was Kandy and Zagig. She knew where they were and began to run as fast as she could not stopping until she reached them.

Celendina was out of breath and crying when she reached them. She explain to them that Raederlea had sent her and she knew she would be upset, but she also knew she was not safe. The man was wicked and evil.

"And worst off, I left Raederlea's favorite guard behind." she said with a scared look on her face.

Zagig

Zagig was shocked to Cel come running up to him. He hadn't seen her since he last visited with Raederlea. He was distressed to see tears running down her cheeks and a look of absolute shock on her face. Taking the young girl in his arms, he let her wracking sobs die down before he spoke. "What is it Cel? What has happened? Is Rae alright? Why are you here in Ameca?"

Through her sobs, Cel explained in detail the situation. Zag wasted no time. He still had many people here in Ameca that were loyal to him. And he told Kandy to look after Cel, and to get her out of town, and safely on her way home to Rae.

Then, with purposeful strides, Zagig made a beeline for the home of BatonNoir. At the door he called out. "BatonNoir! Come on out and face a man instead of terrorizing young girls. Come on out and let me finish the job I started on the battlefield!"

From the corner of his eye, Zagig saw the cowards that lived in this town begin to gather. They would protect BatonNoir again, he knew. But he also knew that one day, he would have the pleasure of killing this uncivilized dog again.
_________________

Batonnoir

Instead of asking somebody, Batonnoir decidec to do it by himself. While he got back in the rest room, celendina was no longer nearby. Only some guards of him remained. He let his crutches away and sat down on the carpet. Then, he hold his breath and opened a vein : blood drops started to flow down to the wood cup.

Once the task been accomplished, he toke a parrot's feather in order to write to Raederlea. He used his own blook as ink.

Dear Raederlea,

I'm very thankfull you sent me your slave. She healed me and I'm recovering much faster now. I don't know what had happened if she wouln't had been here... For all of this, I'm very thankfull.

By the way, I want you to know that I miss you and I'm very disapointed by the current events in Amecameca. But I'm sure you aren't involved in this odd trap. I trust you.

As I said to Celendina, all of this made me a new man. I'm not the same anymore. I have changed : I'm peacefull now. This is the way I intend to follow.

About her, this is a very dedicated woman. She went here afraid by Tlaxcallan, and I've done all my possible to treat her as well as possible. By the way, her shyness hasn't kept her becoming a talented healer.

I wish you look well in Tecmilco. I hope I will meet you here again one day. I will do all my possible to get Zazig released.

My best wishes

Batonnoir

He fold the letter and linked it in a very secret way. If someone tried to open it, Raederlea will be automatically aware of this intrusion.

Suddenly, Batonnoir heard some screams outside. His guards stand up instantly, keeping their arms close to the waist.

_________________
Pochteca occidental et Calpullec d'Amecameca

Kandy

Kandy sat and listened. She had been quiet as of late, feeling helpless as things unfolded around her. Zagig’s trial was underway and she was not even allowed into the courtroom. She spent her days studying alone, trying to forget about the fate she knew was at hand.

She listened to Cel talk about the dark-hearted Tlax leader, how Raederlea had sent her to help him and how afraid she was of him now. For a moment Kandy became very angry, but then her thoughts turned to Rae. Beautiful Raederlea with her long dark curls. She was Kandy’s closest friend in world, but Kandy had not written her since they arrived here. What could she write? They had killed many, but were also sabotaged in ways she had thought impossible. That Zagig was on trial but the outcome was likely a foregone conclusion? Bad news makes its way around, and Kandy didn’t have to be the one to deliver the message.

But oh, how she missed the warm embrace of her friend. And how she desperately wanted to confide in someone. She wanted so badly to speak of the things that she knew were happening deep inside her. The things that no one else knew about, not even Zagig yet. The odd feelings and the sickness that at first she thought was the result of her battle injuries. But being fully recovered now she knew differently. She was not really sick at all…

As Zagig stormed out of the hut, Kandy sat with Cel and tried to calm her. Holding her close, she ran her fingers through the girl’s hair and whispered softly, “No harm will come to you Cel, or to any of us. Zag will make sure of it.” Kandy realized that her words carried little meaning, but she felt Cel relax a bit in her arms.
_________________

Cozamalotl

Dreams made Coza's sleep fitful.

A pillar of smoke with the shape of a man dangled warriors by strings looped around his fingers. The strings cut into his fleshless hands and blood made of smoke dripped to the ground where smaller versions of himself sprang from the earth.

Across the field, a great, blackened stick beat senselessly at the small humans around it, prodding them forward to join against the tethered warriors in a bloody battle.

The two sides met and many fell. The Man of Smoke released some of his strings and fell to the earth in a crash of dust and debris. Warriors of the Black Stick surrounded him and took him prisoner, though even in her dreaming, Coza could see the futility of trying to capture smoke. In the battle, the enormous black stick was hacked nearly in half, it's wooden frame lying crooked in the dirt, sap oozing from its cuts. The stick, though it had no mouth, laughed in a maniacal voice and chased after Coza, beating her about the legs.

Coza woke up, sweat covering her body and her breath hitching in her chest. When her heart returned to a normal pace, she rose and made tea, pouring it into two cups. She carried the cups out the door and made her way to Rae's hut.

Without knocking, she pushed the door open with her foot and let herself in.

Drink this, she said, handing Rae the steaming cup. Your distress woke me. It's very loud.
_________________

When keeping brains in jars, here’s a tip: why not add a slice of lemon to each jar, for freshness?.

Raederlea

Goddess of Controversy
Tlatoani for Tepeyacac
Prior 3 Term Pochteca of Tepeyacac

Cozamalotl

When keeping brains in jars, here’s a tip: why not add a slice of lemon to each jar, for freshness?.

Keyra

Raederlea

Goddess of Controversy
Tlatoani for Tepeyacac
Prior 3 Term Pochteca of Tepeyacac

Raederlea

Goddess of Controversy
Tlatoani for Tepeyacac
Prior 3 Term Pochteca of Tepeyacac

Cozamalotl

Citation:

"He's going to die you know." Rae said to Coza as she continued to stare at the fire. "There is nothing I can do, but I promise you, they will live to regret it."

When keeping brains in jars, here’s a tip: why not add a slice of lemon to each jar, for freshness?.

Zagig

--Celendina

Cozamalotl

When keeping brains in jars, here’s a tip: why not add a slice of lemon to each jar, for freshness?.

Kandy

Zagig a écrit:

“Would you be interested in learning how to wield this power?”

Skykat

Oulaup

_________________
NK=NK, RK=RK, here it's NK don't forget it-NK=NK, RR=RR, ici c'est NK, ne l'oubliez-pas!

Raederlea

Goddess of Controversy
Tlatoani for Tepeyacac
Prior 3 Term Pochteca of Tepeyacac

Zagig

Raederlea

Goddess of Controversy
Tlatoani for Tepeyacac
Prior 3 Term Pochteca of Tepeyacac

Kandy

Kandy sat as the smoke began to rise and engulf each of them. She could no longer see Oula or Zagig. Though she could hear his voice, she could not understand the words. Her perception lost focus, all her senses became fuzzy. Her sight, hearing and sense of smell began to blur. Her hands tingled and her mouth went dry.

She sensed someone next to her... it was Keyra, leaning in to kiss Kandy's cheek. Keyra began to nibble on her neck as she so often did when they were together. Giggling, Kandy went to embrace her, and then she saw Rae's eyes smiling back. Her long dark curls fell around her shoulders like a waterfall, and when Kandy went to touch them her fingers went through them like smoke. And as the smoke curled she heard the rattle that had lulled her to sleep the night before and the snake appeared and wrapped itself around her.

Zagig a écrit:

“I will not forget you my dearest of friends and family...do not forget me.”

Forget him??? Her existence revolved around him, he was the reason she lived. Only he understood how true that was. At first she started to laugh, and then the essence of his words struck her and she began to sob. Without him there would be nothing, nothing! She felt herself falling into a void, complete emptiness surrounded her. Then she was awakened by the kicking of the child that grew inside. Her hand went to her belly as the smoke began to clear.
_________________

Dajia

It was a restless night. Dajia had a hard time sleeping and was twisting and turning in her bed. First cold and after a while all sweaty. In one moment awake and in the next in the dreams land.
Outside the dark night slowly went by, clouds chased each other over the darkblue almost black sky, like wolfs chaseing a deer. Sometimes the round moon showed itself and gave the earth all trees long shadows and a glow of orange. It was a disturbed night full of worry and all life could feel its presence.
Dajia turned around in her bed from one side to another and after the last turn she gave up and sat herself up in the bed with a sight.
She looked around in the dark room and was about to get up from the floor when she felt smoke and saw the fog around her. She followd it out were her little kitchen should be, but enterd another room. Filled with people. People she knew. People close to her.
Raederlea,her aunt Marslynn, Thalassa her sister, Keyra, SkyKat her mother and some others. She did not know them all but knew they had a conection to her father.
She could see her father, infront of them. She wanted to say something, walk up to him, but stod still were she were. Followd his every move. She knew this was an important moment for him and for them all that was gatherd there tonight. They all got a piece of the tortilla and listen to him while he spoke.

....And I begin a terrible journey that I may not return from...I will not forget you my dearest of friends and family...do not forget me.

Dajia could not hear the rest. Tears were pouring down her face, she backed away, with her eyes stareing at everyone and her loveing dad Zagig. She turned around and ran...

Bang!!!
Dajia woke up from down beside her bed with tears all over her face. Looking around the room. No smoke. No family and friends. No dad around...She looked around, confused. Then when she was about to go up from the floor, she felt something in her hand. She looked at it and opend it. The tortilla her father given her in her dream. She closed her hand again and looked out the window on the big round moon.I will never forget you dad!
_________________

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VeGsayRy6eY

Keyra

Many changes happened in a short time.
Place, responsibility and even the times she lived in seemed to change.
Keyra was confused, she felt lonely as she did often in the last couple of weeks but on the other hand she felt home.
A feeling she never experienced before.
She felt good here in Quecholac, surrounded by people belonging to the same family she belongs to in some ways.
At first she was even a bit shocked by this as she was not used to feel home at any time in her life.
But still she missed Zag and Kandy ..her family ... being away from both made her feel sick.
Although she was surrounded by friends she felt incomplete.
Marslynn offered her to sleep in her hut.
Keyra was thankful for that and tried to get some sleep in her first night in Que.
Restless dreams catch her soul.
She was in the forest and she knew the sorcerer was calling her but this night was different from others another "call" was stronger.
She slipped through dimensions and time it seems like and felt Kandy close to her.
Kandy... she was not able to refuse to kiss her cheek.
She nibbled on her neck and whispered soft words into her ear.
Keyra felt Kandy needs her and she would need Kandy.
She was not sure what was going on and what took her here, were everything felt real and unreal at the same time.
But the taste of Tequila on her tongue revealed the answer to her and she drifted away...crying...waking in the hut in Quecholac.
Tears run down her cheek, she knew it happened and it was not a dream but yet she was still here and had no chance to get to Kandy to be close to her in this hard time.

Keyra knew he would return but now he was gone and she felt he is missing.
As if part of her life was missing, part of herself.
_________________

Thalassa

Was a nice and warm evening, almost the end of the day. All daily work was already done. Thalassa say goodbye to sister in tavern and was on her way to home, however, when she went out of tavern, she saw how red is sun. In sunset light all around were red and it was beautiful.

“In so nice evening can’t stay home” she thought and went to her secret place in the jungle. It is not far from clan, but hard to get there. After climbing some rocks, she was near the waterfall. When she was there sun was even more red. She sat on the top of the waterfall and watched the sun go down.

Thalassa was so deeply in her thoughts that she did not noticed when became dark. The moon was so big and so bright that it seemed that the hand can reach it.

She felt a light wind blast and in next moment she saw her father in front of her. She was not in jungle any more, she was in a room full of smoke and people, some of them she know and some she did not know.

She saw how her father is breaking a tortilla and presents a peace to everyone in room.

Take this as a token of my love for each of you. Consume it, and remember me.

Thalassa took a peace.
Then she heard her dad saying

“Tomorrow they take my heart from me. And I begin a terrible journey that I may not return from. But, with your love and support, I will find my way home. But, I know not how long it may take. So, for my last meal, I wanted to share it with you all.”

She watched how her father was eating his peace of tortilla and remembered the last day she saw him. She know what will happen, he told her that. Thalassa did not wanted go home and left him, but he told that he will come home, that she need to trust him. And she believed him.

“I will not forget you my dearest of friends and family...do not forget me.”

She smiled to her father and say:”I will never forget you”

In the next moment she was back in jungle, the moon was big and bright. Thalassa softly whispered: “I will never forget you” she wipe the tears and with a smile added “and I will always wait you coming back home”
_________________
One day arrive to me a fairy and say:”Come take your choice, you want to be pretty or smart?”
„Ah, fairy, it is good to be pretty and good to be smart... however I not pretty, not smart, but happy want to be!”

Oulaup

[Amecameca – Cellule de Zagig en compagnie de Kandy]

Elles étaient là toutes les deux, Kandy et elle, les yeux fixés sur Zagig, écoutant sagement ses paroles…Elles n’en voulaient pas perdre une miette…

Imitant le balancement rythmé de Zag, Oula ferma les yeux …
Peu à peu la fumée envahissait la pièce, de plus en plus opaque… dégageant cette fragrance suave et boisée… sentant la mousse et le champignon doublée d’un léger parfum fleuri, elle pénétrait l’esprit, l’entraînant lentement vers un ailleurs incontrôlable…

Les champignons, elle les aimait bien, la Fouine… mais pas n’importe lesquels… ceux qui, comme le peyotl qu’elle fumait bien souvent, vous emporte, tour à tour, dans un jardin fleuri offrant une multitude de couleurs vives… de formes bizarres, de visages déformés vous apportant l’hilarité bienfaitrice où la sérénité risquait de vous laisser sur les lèvres un sourire niais…
Mais suivant l’humeur du jour, l’environnement, la peur, la douleur… suivant que Soleil vous éclairait le cœur ou que le monde des ténèbres l’assombrissait… Ce n’était pas pareil…

Pour l’instant la vision d’Oula n’avait rien de paradisiaque…Vision aux trois couleurs… Rouge, blanche, noire…
Rouge comme le sang de n’importe quel mortel… un champ de bataille… sang s’écoulant des plaies des blessés… Visages connus… aimés…
Sa massue et sa dague dégoulinantes de l’eau précieuse de ses frères… la Fouine voit leurs yeux froids qui la dévisagent et la condamnent…

Tu viens de frapper les tiens, Oula, tes frères coyotes, tes amis… Honte sur toi, la Fouine, tu nous as trahis, trahi le Tonalamatl… le châtiment des dieux sera terrible…

La dague à la main, le corps ensanglanté de Sacha gît au milieu des guerriers, dans un dernier sursaut ses mains essayent de l’agripper… elle recule… mais la force du coyote est telle qu’elle tombe sur lui… sa dague s’enfonce entre ses côtes… ses yeux se voilent en plongeant son regard dans le sien avant de sombrer dans la mort avec lui… leurs cœurs s’arrêtant de battre en même temps…
La vision devient trouble… La vision devient double… Rouge ce cœur qu’ils lui arrache… ce cœur qui bat encore dans les mains de la prêtresse… le visage de Zagig se superpose sur celui de Sacha… les yeux félins teintés d’un or vert remplacent les yeux noirs…

Noir comme le sang jaillissant du corps du supplicié… de son homme… même si elle n’est pas la seule à l’aimer, c’est quand même son homme… comme il est aussi celui de Kandy et de Keyra…
Noir comme le linceul dont elle recouvrira Zagig quand les esclaves l’auront jeté du haut de la pyramide et qu’elle le leur fera porter jusqu’à sa hutte…
Noir comme la mort…

Blanc comme le voile qui sert de rideau entre le passage du royaume des vivants à celui des morts… « le Passage » auquel nul ne peut échapper…

Une grande pièce… Pas de visages connus, cette fois… si quelques uns, pourtant… Ce diable d’homme partageant des tortillas… des rires… des sourires… des regards tristes…
Un voyage vers une autre province… dans une charrette, une mère et son enfant, l’enfant de Zag et de Kandy… la vie… le corps vide de Zagig… le retour vers la vie… Elle les conduisant… Une nouvelle vie…

Mais les visions passent... Oula regarde Zagig... Un jour elle lui racontera…
Pour l’instant elle se sent un peu perdue…

TRANSLATION
[ Amecameca - Zagig's cell - together with Kandy]

They were both there, Kandy and her, eyes fixed to Zagig , listening to wisely his words … They did not want to lose a crumb of them …

Imitating the rhythmical balance of Zag, Oula closed her eyes …
Little by little the smoke invaded the room, more and more opaque loosening this pleasant and afforested fragrance, smelling moss and mushroom, doubled by a light flowery perfume...
It penetrated into the spirit, carrying it slowly into a somewhere else unverifiable …
Mushrooms... she liked them, the Waesel, but not whatever, those who, as the peyotl which she smoked very often, takes you, alternately, in a flowery garden, offering a multitude of lively colors... of bizarre forms... deformed faces bringing you the hilarity benefactress where the serenity risked to leave you a silly smiles on the lips …
But according to the day humor, the environment, the fear, the pain... as Sun enlightened your heart or as the world of gloom darkened it … It wasn’t the same...

At the moment, the vision that Oula has, is nothing paradisiacal … Vision in three colors … Red, white and black...

Red as the blood of whatever mortal... A battlefield... blood flowing by wounds of the injured … Liked known Faces … loved...
Her club and dagger driping of the precious fluid of her brothers... the Stone marten sees the cold eyes which stare at her and condemn her …

You have just struck yours, Oula, your brothers coyotes, your friends … Shame on you, the Stone marten, you betrayed us, betrayed Tonalamatl... Gods’ punishment will be terrific …

Dagger in the hand, Sacha, cover with blood, is lying in the middle of the warriors, in a last surge his hands try to catch her... she moves back...
but the coyote’s strength is such as she falls on him, his dagger sinks between her ribs... her eyes hide themselves... plunging her glance into his before sinking with him into death... their hearts stopping beating at the same time …
The vision becomes shady … The vision becomes double … Red, this heart that they tear away from him... this heart which still beats in the hands of the priestess... Zagig’s face of overlaps on Sacha’s one… the feline eyes tinged with a goldish green replace the black eyes …

Black as the blood springing from the torture victim’s body... of her man even if she is not the only one to love him, it is all the same, he is her man as he is also Kandy’s and Keyra’s one …
Black as the shroud with which she will cover Zagig when the slaves will have thrown him down from the top of the pyramid and when she will make them carry him up to her hut …
Black as death …

White as the veil which serves as curtain between the passage of the alives’ kingdom ad the one of the deads... " the Passage " which nobody can escape …
But the vision becomes blurred again... Still, at the same rocking rhythm than Kandy’s and Zagig’s one... that she does not even see... the smoke still play with her senses … her emotions...
Colors mix, take back their liveliness... the terrible images disappear... Eden return …

A large room... No known faces, this time... if, some some, nevertheless … laughes... smiles... sad glances
A journey towards another province... in a cart, a mother and her child, Zag’s and Kandy’s son... Life... the Zagig’s empty body... the return towards the life … She leads them … A new life …

But the visions pass... Oula looks at Zagig... One day she will tell him… At the moment she feels a little lost …

_________________
NK=NK, RK=RK, here it's NK don't forget it-NK=NK, RR=RR, ici c'est NK, ne l'oubliez-pas!

Raederlea

The letter Raederlea had gotten from Batonnoir was eating at her. He said he had missed her. He added That He hoped to see Her again soon. How could such a wicked man have such tender emotions. It was time to respond. She was just not sure how.

Dear BN,

My heart broke Into a thousand peaces the day Zagig died. I do thank you for trying to save him. I'm sure it was met with much resistance hense the cruel death.

I Was surprised to hear you missed me. Celendín Did Not Think You Were capable of SUCH emotions. I Had Felt Like You Were however. Cel is not my slave. She is a dear friend who agreed to help you out of the goodness of her heart. I send my guard Favored With her to protect her. I Had been given by the guard Xuchi long time ago for my safty. Cel I think needed him worse then me. I'm happy they both were returned to me saftly.

Tecmilco is no longer my home. I have been released from my obligations There. Now I shall go where the wind takes me. I Believe I have some obligations in Itzo I expect to go attend to next.

Please stay safe and take care of yourself.

Until We Meet Again,

Raederlea

_________________

Goddess of Controversy
Tlatoani for Tepeyacac
Prior 3 Term Pochteca of Tepeyacac

Batonnoir

Raederlea,

The fact I tried to hide you is that cel has stolen some stuff in my hut. My guards recognized her stealing a jar. But I said nothing, because I wouldn't have broke your heart with such a pity story.

I just invite you in my home for a while, but be carefull on roads, they are not secure.

Hope to see you soon

BN...

_________________
Pochteca occidental et Calpullec d'Amecameca

Raederlea

Raederlea received the letter from BN and read it a couple of times. It seemed like a simple invitation to visit. The smile slowly left her face as she thought back to the things Celendina had said about him. How could someone who her good friend had been so scared of be completely different with her?

Celendina stealing something seemed impossible to Rae. She had been friends with Cel for a very long time and never had anything been missing. When Cel got back from looking for Zagig she would mention it, but was not going to push an issue she did not believe to be possible.

Dear BN,

It would be a great pleasure to visit you. However, until a lasting peace is forged between our two nations, I will not be permitted to visit you without an army escort. I know it seems harsh, but my people must do what is right to look out for my safety. Let me know if this will work. The entering of your province on this friendly venture could be the first step towards peace.

I'll await your response.

Raederlea

Raederlea knew she must address the issue with BN about Celendina, but wanted to talk to her first.
_________________

Goddess of Controversy
Tlatoani for Tepeyacac
Prior 3 Term Pochteca of Tepeyacac

Batonnoir

Hi,

I knew you were to choose to visit me, and Im very pleased to heard that.

In fact, since our last meeting - the quickest one - I have been wondering how our relationship was to evolve. Some friends of mine told me to insist and pick you up from tepeyacac, with an army. Other were more reluctant in seing an aztec coming and setting in Tlaxcalla.

I hope you will come soon, but you gotta mind that's not possible to get through here with a military escort. I know you feel this path unsecure, but I was told you read one examplary of our customs. You know we take highly in account bravery.

Batonnoir...

_________________
Pochteca occidental et Calpullec d'Amecameca

Raederlea

Raederlea received the letter from Batonnoir. She smiled most of the way though it. She got to the part about bravery and began to grumble.

"I am brave. What the heck is the man thinking?" She grumbled to herself. The truth of the matter was the next election was 33 days away. Raederlea had been Pochteca for the last 3 terms. She believed it was time to change her role moving up this time. She wanted to try her hand at Tlatoani. Raederlea believed she was a strong diplomate. She had the skills to do the job and possibly help make peace between these nations.

Dear Batonnoir,

It seems we are at an impasse then, since I am unable to travel outside the escort of an army. You see,as I know is true with you, I have high political asperations. My people are not willing to risk my life when to them you may wish to do me harm. I know that is not the case. It is a pity that distrust between our two tribes must keep us from sharing each other's company.

I am on my way back to my home in Huax. I have to pick up some items and do some trades after which I will return to Itzo. Perhaps at that point we can get our two provinces to make friendship? For all of us, peace is the best. Our two nations forged, would be a site to behold. For now, I'm afraid we must be confined to the exchange of the written word. I do look forward to the day when this will not longer be the case, as I do wish to visit.

Perhaps when I get back to Itzo, you can meet me in Nopa?

In Peace,

Raederlea

_________________

Goddess of Controversy
Tlatoani for Tepeyacac
Prior 3 Term Pochteca of Tepeyacac

Batonnoir

From Amecameca's arena...

Batonnoir was sitting uperside of the arena : there was a nook which permitting the referee to watch everything happened on the field. At this day, Amecameca's arena was full about 3000 people.

As a break occured during the contest, Batonnoir toke his time to read carefully raederlea's message.

Citation:

He didn't know what to think about. All these wars around here, these political conflits includind high ranked people, even in tepeyacac. Those events put Batonnoir in trouble, denying him to think right, to reflect quietly about matters.

Well, raederlea could travel with a small escort, though. Tlaxcallan roads are not secured : they never did. Unlike some countries from suburbs, chasing was totally approved and even considered as "act of bravery". Batonnoir did it several times, and has also been robbed. Doesn't matter really. "Warriors's insigna". But he wouldn't Raederlea get entangled in that for the time being.

Then, raising his face up, he was looking forward for some new about the war front, and some new from raederlea. As a brave Tlaxcallan warrior, Batonnoir has ever would to share his life with someone. Even if he got his first wife sooner, he would know that he could do it for one hundred women and men if he felt passion, trust and love for all of them.
_________________
Pochteca occidental et Calpullec d'Amecameca

Raederlea

Raederlea tossed and turned restlessly. The journy ahead of her promised to be filled with not only excitment but danger. Her dreams were being haunted by her need to see this man.

Batonnoir appeared to her nothing like he appeared to other. When talking to her he was a brave warrior and a gentleman. When she heard others talk of him, it was almost just the opposite. They spoke of his fighting tactics and one of her mayors even spoke of abuse of her town and herself by this man. How could this person look so different?

Not being able to sleep Raederlea began to pack her bag. She packed many things for an extended stay. She was unsure what exactly needed to be done, but knew she could not do it from her home in Huax.

"Well there is only one way to find out." Rae said tossing her bag over her back.
_________________

Goddess of Controversy
Tlatoani for Tepeyacac
Prior 3 Term Pochteca of Tepeyacac

Raederlea

As darkness fell Raederlea decided to start out on her journey. Her head was spinning. So many things were going on and 90% of her supports were not here. Rae rolled her shoulders realising exactly what position she was in.

Fred had been a strong support. Now quite honestly she was not sure what he was. Would he support her or would he stab her in the back and take pleasure in watching every drop of blood drain from her. She closed her eyes and shook her head. Betrayal was that exactly. Arching her back, it was almost as if she would feel warm beads of blood flowing down her back sucking the very breath out of her.

After the two had split, Rae never showed any emotions or gave reasons to anyone. One day they were happy, the next day ... it was over. Perhaps this trip would help her to put the demon to rest.

When she thought of the news that Zagig was alive she couldn't help but thank the Gods. She needed to make a trip to see him. She needed to feel his strong arms wrap around her and have a good cry, then a few laughs in his arms. While Zagig had many lovers, Raederlea had never been one of them. He had molded her into a female version of himself. Rae was up front, honest and "in your face" when she was going to attack. She wanted people to know the attack was coming and to watch the victim sweat. She would prowl around them like a hungry lioness licking her lips seductivly until they were no more.
She had been asked by Batonnoir if she was a great warrior. Her first response had been no. But perhaps that was the wrong answer. Rae was friendly, smart and effective leader. Her diplomatic talents were second to none. She didn't need to bring her fighting abilities out often, but was happy to have it when it was needed.

Tecmilco was not far ahead. Her mind had been working overtime. She had traveled this very road many times, hense it didn't bothered her to move along it alone. She had snuck out while her guard remained sleeping at her place. She giggled softly knowing that both the guard and Xuchi would be beside themselves when they figured it out but in reality she did not care.

Her mind went back to her one of her last conversations with Xuchi. Her soft full lips moved into a frown as she remembered him telling her he would not back her. Arching her back she could feel again, the blood slowly running down her back. Betrayal. Was there any direction she could turn and not feel it?

Shaking her head as if to shake the thoughts out of it she whispered to herself..."I may get knocked down, but I get up again, you'll never keep me down."
_________________

Goddess of Controversy
Tlatoani for Tepeyacac
Prior 3 Term Pochteca of Tepeyacac

--Yaotl

"I don't see what he sees in her." Yaotl said as he got up and realised that Raederlea was gone. She had taken off without him yet again. "Does this girl have a death wish for me? The emperor will have my back side if she shows up in Itzo without me." He cursed as he ran out the door.

Raederlea always went the same way. This made the task of finding her that much simplier. Once he did he'd have to stay back and not let her know he was following or she'd attempt to get away again. Rae was fully capable of handling herself. It was painfully obvious. Yaotl had always considered himself lucky he had got the job of guarding her, well when she wasn't taking off. She was pleasant, friendly and easy to look at. She didn't treat him like a guard, but more as a friend.

She'd been acting weird lately. She had wanted more time alone and kept looking off and tapping her fingers as if trying to decide what to do. He couldn't believe he fell alseep before she had! "Duh! How stupid!" he said outloud taking some short cuts to try and catch up with her.

A goofy smile crossed his face when he could hear a sound off in the distance. She was singing. He had gotten close enough to see her as she began dancing around in cicles. He quietly chuckled to himself no longer angry with Rae, just amused by her playfulness. In one of her twirls she caught site of Yaotl.

"What are you doing here?" She demanded wondering how much of her song and dance he had seen. She couldn't help but giggle knowing she had been caught. She turned around and kept walking and humming knowing Yaotl was close behind her.

"Raederlea, you know the emperor would have my backside if anything happened to you. I am afraid you are stuck with me until you die." Yaotl said no longer angry with her.

Batonnoir

From Occidental headquarter - Amecameca

He was studying again and again armies disposal and though about several possibilities. He had been studying those plans for hours by now, and he need a break.

He went outside and started to smoke weed. The sky was unclouded and birds - especially toucans - were flying from one tree to another, doing a sort of ballet. Gorgeous.

Then, appeared a messenger who, quickly after bowing, ask the right to talk with Batonnoir.

I may tell you two news, Batonnoir loxetla Tlaxcallan.

Raising his right hand, he invited him to talk.

Raederlea is in Iztochan. She's awaiting to begin nopa's journey, and she is trying to get rid off her guards.

Nice, I hope she will sucess in getting rid off these xuchi's spies.

Then, the messenger opened a letter, which contained some drawings.

I have to tell you that your nephew, Atecoatl, is taking over Tlaxcalla, the Oriental capitale. You nephew chuichianoc will be fired soon from the tlatoani's office.

Batonnoir was thinking about it for a short while.

Excellent. You can dismiss now.

The messenger was bowing a second time and running away from the headquarter entrance.
_________________
Pochteca occidental et Calpullec d'Amecameca

Batonnoir

He returned back in the headquarter. He took one of his favourite feathers and began a letter.

Citation:

Dear Xuchimatzatzin,

We know each other very well. I write you this letter because I know you are very annoyed with Valkyrie's raid in Meztitlan territory. I hold certain positions about that matter, so let me get this straigh.

+ Calpan and xicotencatl must return back to Tlaxcallan territory. They are not a part of Metztitlan: they never did.

+ The valkyrie's raid has been made far far away up there. I personnally disapprove this one, who is putting the whole region close to the war. As I want peace, cant support this fool raid.

To keep peace for a while, because people from everywhere are tired of doing war all the time, it's putting the mess in every house, in every clan.

Bright people know when to stop and make a break.

As keeping those clans under metztitlan power is putting in danger the whole area, I ask for them to return under Eastern province rule. By the way, Eastern troublemakers are gonna to be punished. This is a Tlaxcallan internal affair and is not to affect the peace. In fact, it's gonna to strenghten it.

The Occidental province never allowed troublemakers to put the mess in it's territory and in the neighbourhood as well. Texcoco is a smart example of what occidental people is up to do in order to thwart troublemaker's plans.

Batonnoir Loxetla Tlaxcallan Amecameca

_________________
Pochteca occidental et Calpullec d'Amecameca

Xuchimatzatzin

"My king." At hearing those words, Xuchimatzatzin turns around. A kneeling warrior in front of him. Making eye-contact he speaks again. "A Tlaxcalan messenger has brought this letter."

Taking the letter, and reading it Xuchimatzatzin frowns. Is the messenger still here? He asks.

"Yes, my king."

Good, I shall write a response now.

Batonnoir,

I believe you are mistaken. Orientale's business is none of your business. It is NOT a Tlaxcallan internal matter. It is a matter within the magnificent Empire, in which Occidentale is welcome in it, but not part of it now. Orientale is, as such all these matters are mine. Above that I hold a bond as strong as the sun is to life with my brothers from Metztitlan.

Occidentale holds no right to meddle in this. Perhaps Calpan and Xicotencatl will once again belong to Orientale. It is however not a situation you can make demands in. Orientale is free to start direct conversation with Metztitlan. But by the right of the conqueror Metztitlan holds fair claim to those two clans won in a war started by Orientale.

I, the Empire and Metztitlan have given Orientale the chance to rebuild, to rebuild in the glorious Empire. It is something that they will do on their own, and we give them the ability and freedom to do so. Only by proving their value to the Empire shall they ever regain Calpan and Xicotencatl. Fight alongside their family, fight for the Empire, and the gods shall favour them.

I have received a request from the Orientale Tlatoani, and I shall come to secure peace and freedom in Orientale.

For glory and greatness,
For the Empire,

Huey Tlatoani Xuchimatzatzin, King of the Ihittaqueh, Emperor of the Aztec Empire and Tlaxcala Orientale

_________________

--Yaotl

The gates to Itzo were just ahead. Yaotl couldn't help but smile to himself knowing he'd get a well deserved rest. Raederlea was charming and sweet and pleasant, but she was also willful and stubborn when she was pushed.

The two had been silent for sometime. "Raederlea, are we going to the emperor's home?" He said trying to get a better understanding of where her head is.

"No, well I'm not. Please go and tell the emperor I have returned to Itzo and am safe. If he requests my company, I will be at Coza's. It's time for some girl chat." Rae said with a slight giggle and a half smile.

Arriving at the cross roads, Rae went towards Coza's and Yaotl went towards Xuchi's. Raederlea had been restless ever since Zagig had died. Perhaps Xuchi's witch would be able to put her mind at ease and get her back on track.

Before he knew it he had arrived. "Can you let the emperor know that Raederlea has arrived in Itzo safely. She is with Coza. Should he desire her company, I will go get her." Yaotl said then sitting down. The guard went and told the emperor while Yaotl was sitting down to a hot meal.

Raederlea

Raederlea was happy to back in Itzo. She had grown quite attached to the town and the people while she was living there before she moved to Huax.

Walking up to Coza's hut Rae smiled remebering the first time she had gotten there. It was in the last war when Occidentale and Orientale had attacked. She giggled remembering some of the odd things Coza had in her hut, wondering if any of them were still around.

"knock knock knock" was heard at the door as Rae waited hoping Coza was around.
_________________

Goddess of Controversy
Tlatoani for Tepeyacac
Prior 3 Term Pochteca of Tepeyacac

Cozamalotl

The door flew open before the last knock, and Coza stood in the doorway, her eyes wide, her hair poking in multiple directions as though she'd been struck by lightning. Her head whipped from side to side, then up at the sky.

"Are you crazy, women?" she said to Rae, grabbing her by the arm. "Get in here before you draw attention!" She yanked Rae through the door, slammed it shut and stood panting against the rough wood.

"Don't just stand there, help me!" she said, piling tables and baskets in front of the door in a manic rush. "Cover the windows! They might get in through the cracks!"

Coza ran from one window to the next, stuffing bits of cloth in holes, pinning fabric over the windows.

When she was satisfied, she dropped in an exhausted heap on the floor.

"Never talk politics with a deer fly," she said. "What they lack in common sense, they make up for in temper. He'll probably come back with friends any time now. Fortunately, both their memories and their lives are short, so we should be safe soon."
_________________

When keeping brains in jars, here’s a tip: why not add a slice of lemon to each jar, for freshness?.

Raederlea

Raederleas eyes grew wide as as watched Coza franticly running around the room. She didn't understand what Coza was talking about, but this was nothing new. She often didn't understand, she always attempted, but something usually got lost in the translation.

Coza was a good listener. Well, there was never any proof she was listening, but she didn't interupt, which was nice. Sometimes she even gave advice on the topic she was asked about which was also nice. Rae just hoped this was one of her better days.

"Coza, I need to talk to you." Rae said not stopping to see what Coza was doing. "When Zagig died, I became more chaotic, more willful and more stubborn." Rae said then paused while thinking. She knew Coza understood the connection between Rae and Zag so she did not feel the need to explain.

"I believe the time has come for me to take my rightful place in Tepy. Perhaps I have been putting it off. Situations plex me. They called to me." Turning away Rae says softly almost in a whisper,"The emperor calls to me."

"We need to create peace." Rae says turning to look at Coza.
_________________

Goddess of Controversy
Tlatoani for Tepeyacac
Prior 3 Term Pochteca of Tepeyacac

Cozamalotl

After a short rest to catch her breath, Coza realized Rae had been speaking to her. She thought backward and listened this time.

Raederlea a écrit:

"Coza, I need to talk to you." Rae said not stopping to see what Coza was doing. "When Zagig died, I became more chaotic, more willful and more stubborn."

"I believe the time has come for me to take my rightful place in Tepy. Perhaps I have been putting it off. Situations plex me. They called to me." Turning away Rae says softly almost in a whisper,"The emperor calls to me."

Coza rolled her eyes.

"You place too much importance on what is only a simple matter. I told you death is nothing to Zagig. You ask my advice, but you rarely listen." She scowled at at an ant as he detoured around her bare foot.

"Your willful and stubborn ways are not a reflection of an external fight. Stop fighting yourself and the way becomes easy. Answer the call of the Emperor - or not. We all hear the call. And we all answer in our own ways. Even if the answer is no. But it is not the Emperor or duty to tribe you fight. Raederlea fights with Raederlea. Neither can win over the other."

Raederlea a écrit:

"We need to create peace." Rae says turning to look at Coza.

Coza gave a weary sigh and took up a loop of yarn. She wove it between her fingers in an intricate pattern, holding it carefully stretched between her hands.

"Peace is easily created," she said. "It has its beauty, and within its fragile form, a thousand threads which hold it together."

She leaned forward and moved the delicate web of yarn to Rae's hands. For a moment, it seemed the pattern would hold, but one loop slipped from Rae's fingers and the entire configuration knotted up into a mess dangling from one hand.

"Peace takes more than a steady hand and creativity. To survive for very long, it can rarely be passed hand to hand without losing its structure. It is easy to create, but nearly impossible to sustain for long. It is so with the web of a spider, the bubbles of a fish nest, and it is doubly so with man. It is the Aztec way."
_________________

When keeping brains in jars, here’s a tip: why not add a slice of lemon to each jar, for freshness?.

Raederlea

"Peace takes more than a steady hand and creativity. To survive for very long, it can rarely be passed hand to hand without losing its structure. It is easy to create, but nearly impossible to sustain for long. It is so with the web of a spider, the bubbles of a fish nest, and it is doubly so with man. It is the Aztec way."

This made sense to Raederlea. As new people touched the peace it would change and become different. It would be not at all what they had intended and someday disolve. Not all people liked or wanted peace. This would also have an impact on how long it lasted.

"Your willful and stubborn ways are not a reflection of an external fight. Stop fighting yourself and the way becomes easy. Answer the call of the Emperor - or not. We all hear the call. And we all answer in our own ways. Even if the answer is no. But it is not the Emperor or duty to tribe you fight. Raederlea fights with Raederlea. Neither can win over the other."

It was clear Raederlea and Coza were not talking about the same thing. Raederlea never fought her duty to the tribe. She had been trade minister for 3 terms and had always done her job to the fullest of her ability. She needed to think of another way to say the same thing.

"Coza, do you love Dan? Love in your heart? Would you die for him?" Rae said watching Coza closly for her reply.
_________________

Goddess of Controversy
Tlatoani for Tepeyacac
Prior 3 Term Pochteca of Tepeyacac

Cozamalotl

Raederlea a écrit:

"Coza, do you love Dan? Love in your heart? Would you die for him?" Rae said watching Coza closly for her reply.

Coza blinked her eyes. Dan. She liked Dan very much. But there was something...something.

A cold, wet nose nudged Coza's hand and she glanced down. Yolltol was pressing her little skunk face against a shiny object wrapped around Coza's finger.

Ah! Dan! The wedding. Coza smiled. The ring was supposed to be there to remind her. But sometimes Yollotl had to help.

"I am to marry Dan!" Coza said, her face lighting up with delight. "I must love him very much, for that is tradition." She paused, her face scrunched up with worry. "Isn't it?"

She thought about it for a moment, her hand fluttering around her face like a tiny bird. The light caught the ruby snake eyes embedded in the band and made sparks. "Oh yes," she said. "I would die for Dan. He is very good to me and likes to climb trees."
_________________

When keeping brains in jars, here’s a tip: why not add a slice of lemon to each jar, for freshness?.

Raederlea

"I am to marry Dan!" Coza said, her face lighting up with delight. "I must love him very much, for that is tradition." She paused, her face scrunched up with worry. "Isn't it?"

"Yes.. Yes it is. To love someone that fully, that completely doesn't happen every day. Sometimes only once in your life." Rae said still smiling at Coza. "I'm going to tell you something few know. I would have given my life for Zagig. I would have died and not come back. I don't have the same powers as he does." Rae said knowing Coza would understand.

"Perhaps that is not a good way to measure love, but that is how I think about it. I believe I have been blessed enough to have those emotions for someone else as well. Remember shhhhhh this is girl talk, you can't tell anyone!" Rae said with a giggle.
_________________

Goddess of Controversy
Tlatoani for Tepeyacac
Prior 3 Term Pochteca of Tepeyacac

Raederlea

Walking around Itzo was very safe. There were two armys in town as well as numerous guards to assure the emperors safty. Xuchi was an experienced warrior with no fear. He didn't ask his troops to do anything he would not lead them to do. This created respect and a willingness to follow.

Raederlea had always loved the water. Her mind was else where. Slowly she walked to the water and sat on the bank. Everything was so green and lush. She layed on her back looking up at the sky. The stars were twinkling in the moonlight. As a child she use to count them until she fell sleep. Those were days when if there were troubles, she was unware. Blissfully unaware.

Tonight worry clouded her usually clear vision. The next few weeks were going to be brutal. Preparations for a war were underway.

"Starlight, star bright, first star I see tonight, I wish I may, I wish I might, have the wish I wish tonight." Rae whispered making a wish on one of the stars her eyes slowly closing as she drifted off to sleep.
_________________

Goddess of Controversy
Tlatoani for Tepeyacac
Prior 3 Term Pochteca of Tepeyacac

Raederlea

Raederlea rolled over the morning dew touching her face. She awakened to see the water below her. She had slept throu the night under the large tree. She was not worried or concerned even in the slightest. The only person likely concerned was Yaotl.

This quiet time away had been good. It had helped her get her plans for the upcoming future settled. A lot had gone on in the last few days. Some of it had been good, and some bad. Opinions had been expressed and questions answered. People were digging their heals in.

This fasinated Rae. It was much like watching a puppet move around as commanded as it's strings were moving. This approach would have worked if Rae's emotions were fear based, but they were not. This only made her want to poke the puppet back. It was really like watching a cat play with a mouse that was almost dead. Cat and mouse, the oldest game in the book, but one of the most rewarding.

Raederlea was in no hurry to leave her green lush heaven so she sat. She sat thinking about the past, the present and what the furture was about to bring.
_________________

Goddess of Controversy
Tlatoani for Tepeyacac
Prior 3 Term Pochteca of Tepeyacac

Batonnoir

Citation:

Rae,

It's gonna to hurt you, I know it: I will not be able to join you in Nopalucan. I hope we will meet ourselve somewhere else...soon...

I just take the time to send you this letter. I'm quite busy currently, because Tlaxcalla is frightened AGAIN and I have to manage a lot of things...

I just want you know I miss you since tecmilco...And I lo...

The continuation was missing: something has been deleted. BN ordered a slave to take away this letter to raederlea, as soon as possible.
_________________
Pochteca occidental et Calpullec d'Amecameca

Raederlea

Raederlea was watching what was clearly a slave walk towards her. She was on the river bank as he ran panting and puffing holding the note out with his head bowed.

She tilted her head reading the letter. Did he say what she thought he said. She had opened her mouth as if to speak. When she did, she looked up to see the young slave boy running and her guard running over to her.

"Rae, are you OK? Did he attempt to harm you." He said.

"He was a child." She said shotting him a confused look.

"I'd ask you where you were last night, but it doesn't matter. We need to get our things. Looks like Epatan is being attacked. We must defend." He said helping her up.

"Who's army will we be in?" Rae said as her and the guard started to run back.

"You know exactly where you'll be put. Let's hurry, You'll likely lead a group." He said as they started to run back.
_________________

Goddess of Controversy
Tlatoani for Tepeyacac
Prior 3 Term Pochteca of Tepeyacac

Batonnoir

Amecameca - coeur de la cité

Il pensait à Raederlea, jour et nuit. Il avait envie de dire "Je t'aime", "j'ai envie de te prendre dans mes bras"...mais la distance...les charges...les séparait encore et toujours. Il se languissait de pouvoir la revoir prochainement. Quoiqu'il en soit, il voulait lui demander sa main, c'était maintenant une évidence.

J'ai quel'quose à t'montrer mon bon maitre

Langue de pécari venait de débouler près de Batonnoir, hâletant au pas possible.

Huhu...qu'est-ce qui se passe oh..doucement...

Ils sont coincés à tenoch'

D'un revers de la main, il lui coupa la parole. Il n'y avait pas besoin de davantage d'explications, ils se comprenaient parfaitement. Langue de pécari était intime de Batonnoir depuis des années de ça et ils se connaissaient par coeur. Aussi, il se permit d'exprimer ouvertement ses ressentiments.

Une bande d'amateurs dirigés par les pillards de l'Orient...

Il passa en revue certains membres du complot destiné à renverser la capitale occidentale en créant une armée. Kalamite en avait été chargée.

Gericault, pilleur.
Palizma, pilleuse.
Kalamite, manigancière.

Tu vois langue, ils ne recrutent que des gens ayant une revanche à prendre. Notre nation, ils s'en contrecarrent: on voit où ils ont mené l'Orient.

Langue de pécari gesticulait et voulait reprendre la parole.

Ils en veulent à ta' famille...

La mine se renfrogna et il prit son bol de pulque, dont il se délecta.

Nous les rassemblerons dans un huit clos et nous exterminerons cette racaille, une fois pour toutes. Ces traitres pilleurs doivent être traqués tel du gibier qu'on chasse pour réussir le camaxtli.

Ils ne valent rien, ils ne sont que haine. Ils harranguent le peuple avec le "complot loxetla", et là ils viennent de commettre l'erreur de trop.

On ne touche pas à une famille. On ne touche pas à MA famille.

S'il le faut, je vivrai au-delà de 100 ans. Mais je n'arrêterai pas de respirer tant qu'ils ne giserons pas sous un tas de cendres.

L'été sera chaud, il va falloir faire des grillades pour les gens d'Amecameca. Je crois avoir trouvé le combustible pour allumer le feu.

Il sourit. Langue de pécari passa un coup de balais et retourna vaquer à ses occupations.

Citation:

[Size = 18] [i] [b] Amecameca - city centre [/ b] [/ i] [/ size]

[URL = http://img205.imageshack.us/i/amecamecacoeurdelacit.jpg/] [IMG] http://img205.imageshack.
us/img205/2851/amecamecacoeurdelacit.jpg [/ IMG] [/ URL]

[I]
He thought Raederlea, day and night. He wanted to say "I love you", "I want you
in my arms "... ... but the distance between them loads ... again and again.
He longed to be able to see her again soon. Anyway, he wanted to
ask for her hand was now obvious. [/ i]
[Color = darkblue]
[B]
I quel'quose t'montrer to my good master [/ b] [/ color]

[I]
Language peccary had tumbling around Batonnoir, panting in not possible. [/ I]

[B]
Huhu ... what happens .. oh gently ...[/ b]
[Color = darkblue]
[B]
They are trapped Tenoch [/ b] [/ color]

[I]
On the back of his hand, he interrupted her. There was no need for more
explanation, they understood perfectly. Language of peccary was intimate Batonnoir
for years and they knew it by heart. Also, he ventured to express
resentment openly. [/ i]

[B]
A band of enthusiasts led by looters of the East ...[/ b]
[I]

He reviewed some members of the conspiracy to overthrow the western capital in
creating an army. Kalamite had been charged. [/ I]

[B]
Gericault, plunderer.
Palizma, pilleuse.
Kalamite, manigancière.
[/ B]
[B]
You see language, they recruit only people with a revenge. Our nation
they thwart them: we can see where they led the East.
[/ B]
[I]
Language peccary gesticulated and wanted to speak again. [/ I]
[Color = darkblue]
[B]
They seek your 'family ...[/ b]
[/ Color]
[I]
Mine frowned and took his bowl of pulque, which he reveled. [/ I]
[B]

We will gather in a closed session and we exterminate this rabble, once for
all. These traitors must be hunted down as looters of the game we hunt to succeed
the Camaxtli.

They are worthless, they are only hatred. They harranguent the people with the "conspiracy
loxetla ", and then they just make the mistake too many.

It does not affect a family. It does not touch MY family.

If necessary, I will live beyond 100 years. But I will not stop breathing as they
does not giserons under a pile of ashes.

The summer is hot, he'll have to grill for the people of Amecameca. I think
have found the fuel to ignite the fire.
[/ B]

He smiled. Language peccary spent a brush stroke and returned to attend to business.

_________________
Pochteca occidental et Calpullec d'Amecameca

Raederlea

They were back. They had just gotten back from patrol. It was now time to relax. Everyone was going to the tavern to have a few drinks, but Raederlea needed some quiet time. She went over and total the guard she would be by the lake if she was needed. He never bothered her there as she was in site and he understood her need for some time alone.

Arriving at the lake Rae slowly removed all her clothing and dove into the water. The water felt so good, so refreshing and cool running over her body that she thought she'd died and gone to heaven.

After getting out of the water, she picked up the letter she had gotten from Batonnoir again and read it. She was intrigued. She was sure the last line was meant to be "I love you" but it only said.. I lo. This man was such a mystery. Everything she heard about him had been not good, but the man she was getting to know was completely different. He was noble, sweet and warm. He was very sure of himself. He was almost magnetic. Truth was she was looking forward to seeing him. She was loosing her desire to wait. He was only two days travel. But she had much to learn before she could venture into Occidentale alone.

Picking up the book she had brought with her, she began to slowly study it. The book was about tonamotl. She felt like she wanted to understand not only him better but why he is what he is. There could never be peace between the two lands until they understood each other. This was a good first step.
_________________

Goddess of Controversy
Tlatoani for Tepeyacac
Prior 3 Term Pochteca of Tepeyacac

Raederlea

After studying and reading the book she finally needed a break. She picked up the quill and paper next to her and begin to write.

My dearest BN,

It does hurt me that we will not able to meet in Nopa. I feel I need to see you. I have been studying and reading about tonamotl. I want to understand you, not only who you are, but how you view things.

There are so many unanswered questions, so many things I need to know. At first it was want to know, now I must know them. I think about you far more often then perhaps I should. Sometimes I feel guilt over this.

We can not put this off any longer. Please tell me when we can end this torment I feel inside?

Raederlea

Placing a seal on it, she takes it and finds a delivery person to place it in the hands of Batonnoir.
_________________

Goddess of Controversy
Tlatoani for Tepeyacac
Prior 3 Term Pochteca of Tepeyacac

Raederlea

The celebration had just finished. Everyone had a great time. Raederlea wanted to go to the lake but was quite tippsy. Yaotl, her guard, had agreed to go with her.

"It's finally over. Let's hope it was worth all the protests and heal digging. You know, not everything we fight for is worth having, Yaotl." Raederlea said her eyes stopping and resting on her long time guard.

Yaotl nodded silently watching Rae as she walked off towards the water. She didn't actually want or expect an answer. She was just expressing herself outloud. He knew this. She had been spending a significant amount of time at the lake lately. He was unsure why, but most importantly why she slept here.

"Raederlea, we can't be to long tonight. The emperor asked me to escort you to his home tonight." He said pausing,"He has many things to talk to you about he said."

Rae looked back and nodded as she sat on the bank with her quill and paper and begin writing.

My Dearest BN,

Elections are over. I have just become Tepeyacac new Tlatoani. I have not time to write you the type of letter you deserve, as I have to go meet with our captain so he can update me on what I am not aware of.

Till later,

Raederlea

Finishing the letter Rae handed it off to her guard with instructions on delivery. The guard paid an errand boy and lead Rae to her destination.
_________________

Goddess of Controversy
Tlatoani for Tepeyacac
Prior 3 Term Pochteca of Tepeyacac

Eurydice

... *sighs*
_________________

The biggest glory you can have is the possibility to die defending your TOWN and FAMILY.
Never touch us if you do not want me to touch you back.
KILLS: 87.
INJURES: not counted.

Raederlea

Raederlea's eyes opened. She looked around noting the surroundings she had at one time been quite familuar with. She had stayed in her room at the palace on this evening. The meetings last night had gone long. She felt like her head was going to explode. There were so many thing which needed her attention, she decided perhaps a good nights sleep was in order before attempting anything.

Raederlea felt she needed to do some traveling in the province. She would ask the Captain, Kandy, to join her. It had been sometime since she had spent time with Kandy so the relaxation would be good. She had not seen her or Zagig since they returned from Occidentale, so she was very interested in catching up a bit on what had happened over there. This would also give her the chance to ask some questions about things she could not ask Zagig. Zagig was overly protective at times which lead to an arguement and not always the answers she desired.

Raederleas eyes twinkled with mischief as she plotted the corse which they should follow. This would allow them to see all the clans in the province in the shortest amount of time. They had just visited Huax, Tecmilco and Itzo so the other four were in her scoop. Of course this all depended on the the happenings and where she needed to be.
_________________

Goddess of Controversy
Tlatoani for Tepeyacac
Prior 3 Term Pochteca of Tepeyacac

Raederlea

Raederlea had gone down and had breakfast with Xuchi. She was quite hungry this morning still having a lot on her mind. Being with him in the palace was almost instantly comfortable. She had been nervious and it was for no reason. He was kind, sweet and welcoming as he always had been.

Entering the room she nodded once and smiled at Xuchi who gave her one of his grins. He had so much boyish charm she couldn't help but giggle. Once he was busy she studied him. He was ruggedly handsome. No matter what he was doing it was obvious he wanted to do it right, and at the same time he made things look effortless.

"You'll be coming with me?" Xuchi said looking into her eyes. "After all, it's hard to protect you if you are no where to be found." he added with a chuckle.

"Yes, yes I will." Rae added with a smile.

Her trip to Occidentale had not worked out. There was to much chaos about for her to safely make the trip. This must be the God's way of advising against it. She needed to focus her energies on making Tepeyacac stronger. She needed to work on strong trade agreements and making sure the chiefs were all trained. Even thou things were running smoothly, Rae saw room for improvement.

"I'll be back in 2 hours." Rae said with a wink. She was heading to the lake. She was going to leave with the army and didn't know when she'd be back. Lea wanted to go say goodbye to her favorite spot.
_________________

Goddess of Controversy
Tlatoani for Tepeyacac
Prior 3 Term Pochteca of Tepeyacac

Raederlea

Rae walked out of the palace and instantly headed for the lake. Her stuff had never been unpacked from the last trip into out of the province with Xuchi so she didn't need to repack.

The walk seemed faster then normal. She arrived at her usual spot and sat down. The grass was so green. The lake was calm. Not one way or ripple could be seen. It was like a sheet of glass.

Leaving the lake seemed almost symbolic. She was leaving so much of what she had gotten use to. She was leaving Itzo with Xuchi and the army. They were going to places she had never gone,to do things she had never done. She would miss the lake and what it had ment to her.

The timing was perfect. One of the things she admired about some of the past leaders was they didn't ask people to do things they would not do. Rae was willing to do what she asked others to do hense it was time to leave home and defend the province.

"I'll miss you." She whispered to the lack as she turned and ran back to the palace.

**********************

Xuchi had just finished a meeting with the platoon leaders when she walked in. She nodded and offered each a smile as they were leaving.

"Perfect timing." Xuchi said as he took her hand. "Do you have things ready to go?"

"Yes, Everything is ready. All you need to do is say the word." She said giving his hand a gentle squeeze.

"The time has come, go get your things." He said offering her a wink.

"Yes Sir." She said with a playful grin. Leaning in she gave him a quick kiss then ran off to get what she was taking with her.
_________________

Goddess of Controversy
Tlatoani for Tepeyacac
Prior 3 Term Pochteca of Tepeyacac

Raederlea

Being in the army was hard work. It was worth what she was going thru to keep the spirits of the warriors up. She was also seeing such a different side of everyone. It was an experience she would not change for anything.

Xuchi had just announced to the warriors we would be in Que in the morning. Everyone was thrilled! Rae had not been there was many months. Even thou all of her friends were not there, she welcomed the distraction of going to a place she loved so much.

Chaos! Raederlea was use to chaos, but next thing she knew warriors were attacking. She had not expected it. She grabbed her club defending. She was impressed by there speed and ability. They were truely impressive as they sent Zumo and his warriors off in another direction.

"Zumo" Xuchi said as he readied himself for battle. Zumo had entered Tepeyacac. He had attacked Xuchi's army. Now while she had not gotten to have peace talks with BN and Occidentale, she was surprised Tepey was being attacked.

Xuchi looked over at Rae offering a slight smile when he saw she was not injuried. She returned his smile seeing he was without injury as well.

"It will be an extra day before we hit Que" Xuchi announced.
_________________

Goddess of Controversy
Tlatoani for Tepeyacac
Prior 3 Term Pochteca of Tepeyacac

Raederlea

They arrived in Que. She had missed Que so much. Celendina was there as well as Dajia and Mars. She couldn't wait. Keyra was about ready to have the baby. She couldn't wait.

Xuchi gently took Rae by the arm. He had nodded to one of the guards who was removing Rae's things. Rae got an annoyed look on her face about the time Xuchi started to talk.

"Lea, you know you must stay in Tepeyacac as the Tlatoani." Xuchi said to her. "When I return to Tepeycaca again, you will join up." He said giving her hand a squeeze.

She knew better then to argue. It was not going to do any good. And worst off, she knew he was right. She had been so angry when Zumo attacked, she really wanted to go and tend to make sure it wouldn't happen again. But argueing with Xuchi, or going against him was not going to do that.

"Of course." Raederlea said offering him a smile and a gentle squeeze on his hand.
_________________

Goddess of Controversy
Tlatoani for Tepeyacac
Prior 3 Term Pochteca of Tepeyacac

Raederlea

A messenger had come to inform Raederlea she would have a visitor from Occidentale. The former Tlatoani and wife of Batonnoir, Lauratacc. Hairs on back of Raes neck rose at the thought. BN had spoke of her many times, never in disrespect but never with undieing affection for his wife. She had wondered what type of person she was so imagined this meeting might prove to be interesting.

Raederlea went back to her room in Xuchi's palace quietly getting ready. Her hair framed her face in soft curles, the clothing fit perfectly and her nature was quiet and though provoked. This meeting would need to be handled not only diplomaticly but carefully on a personal level.

A neutral location had been choicen. Raederlea walked silently to the meeting. Yatol, her guard, walked two steps behind her. He watched her carefully never having seen her this silent, this serious about anything. Raederlea had spoken with many Tlatoani's so why was this one any different he wondererd.

Upon her arrival Raederlea was escort in. She had just sat at the table when she heard a knock. She closed her eyes and took a deep breath. This was the women who is married to the man who had spoken to her about marriage. Neither of them would committ. Both knew it would not be an easy path and honestly marriage was a foreign concept to her. She had wondered if that was what some of the meeting in Nopa was to be about.

"Enter." Raederlea said as she stood.
_________________

Goddess of Controversy
Tlatoani for Tepeyacac
Prior 3 Term Pochteca of Tepeyacac

Lauratacc

She would have rather not to know her. She was afraid to see the love Batonnoir had for this woman when he despised his wife. But now he was gone...

Laura questioned herself: should she announce the death of Batonnoir by herself to Raederlea when they didn't know each other and Laura had no reason to have pity for her? Would she tell her the truth and read the suffering on her face when this woman was losing a man she loved. Or should Laura tell her by simple sincerity and share their sadness together.

She knew that she would have to face questions to which she will never be able to answer really, she will still lie for a little bit more.

She went alone to meet Raederlea. She never told anyone. She was not afraid. Arriving at the appointed place she knocked.

She heard "enter". Now its to late to leave the place. She breathed deeply and entered the room.

Elle préférait ne pas la connaître… Elle avait eu peur de voir l’amour de Batonnoir pour cette femme alors qu’il dédaignait son épouse légitime. Mais maintenant qu’il n’était plus là…

Elle s’était interrogée : devait-elle annoncer la mort de Batonnoir elle-même à Raederlea alors qu’elles ne se connaissaient pas et que Laura n’avait pas à avoir de pitié pour elle ? Voulait-elle au contraire le lui dire et lire la souffrance sur le visage de cette femme qui allait perdre un homme qu’elle chérissait. Ou bien devait-elle lui dire par simple sincérité et partager ainsi leur tristesse respective.

Mais Laura restait songeuse, elle savait qu’elle devrait affronter des questions auxquelles elle ne pourrait jamais vraiment répondre… mentir encore un peu…. Ne pas affronter la vérité.

Elle alla seule à la rencontre de Raederlea. Elle ne le dit à personne. Elle n’avait pas peur. Arrivée à l’endroit convenu elle frappa.

Elle entendit raisonner le « entrer ». Il n’était plus temps de partir. Elle respira profondément et pénétra dans la pièce.

The story of The end of Batonnoir, (in french)

Raederlea

As she stood her body relaxed. Raederlea was a master at hiding her feelings. A meeting with this woman would be no different. As Lauratacc entered the room Raederlea couldn't help but smile. She some how looked different then what Rae had expected. The picture Rae had painted in head was she was old and not very attractive. Looking at Lauratacc, that statement couldn't have been further from the truth. She was a peteit woman with beautiful black hair and green eyes. She was quite lovely.

"Hello, I am Lauratacc." She said.

"Hello, I am Raederlea." Raederlea said her hand motioning to the chairs for them to sit down.

"You know BN?" Laura said without wasting any time.

"Yes, I know BN. You are his wife correct?" Rae said tilting her head now looking directly at her.

"Yes I am his wife. I know there is something between you to." Lauratacc said with no emotion in her voice.

"A mutal respect. When Zagig injuried him for 45 days, I sent my personal healer to care for him." Rae said nodding.

"He doesn't speak with me about that.. I just discover your relationship in a discussion with other people. It was complicate between us. I think he really did respect you." Laura said.

"Was?" Rae said confusion now evident on her features.

"He is dead." Lauratacc said with no emotion in her voice.
_________________

Goddess of Controversy
Tlatoani for Tepeyacac
Prior 3 Term Pochteca of Tepeyacac

Lauratacc

Laura looked at Raederlea with her green eyes, expressing no sentiment.

She doesn't want to give the image of a jealous woman, she must be worthy : Batonnoir was entitled to have several wives.

She doesn't want to seem sad : things being as they are, we must face reality.

But she was dreading to face the sadness of this woman, see the love she had for Batonnoir.

She did not know how to begin. Tell her that she knew everything and she felt constrain to tell her that he was dead...? Or speak about their provinces and then to come on the real reason of Laura's presence?

She sat down and went straight to the point. No need for politeness and diplomatic usual affectations. She came as a simple woman, without arms, for talking to an other woman, who both had a common respect for the same man.

She said coldly: He is dead.

And Laura lowered eyes, leaving to Raederlea the possibility of taking back her mind, after the shock of the news.

Laura regarda Raederlea de ses yeux verts, n’exprimant aucun sentiment.

Elle ne voulait pas donner l’image de la femme jalouse, elle devait rester digne : Batonnoir avait le droit d’avoir plusieurs épouses.

Elle ne voulait pas paraître triste : les choses étant ce qu’elles sont, il fallait affronter la réalité.

Mais elle redoutait de devoir affronter la tristesse de cette femme, de voir l’amour qu’elle portait pour Batonnoir.

Elle ne savait pas comment commencer. Lui dire qu’elle savait tout et qu’elle se sentait obligée de lui dire qu’il était mort… ? Ou parler de nos provinces puis arriver sur la raison de sa présence ?

Elle s’assit et alla droit au but. Pas besoin des politesses et mièvreries diplomatiques habituelles. Elle était venue en simple femme, sans arme, parler à une autre femme dont toutes les deux partageaient un respect commun pour le même homme.

Elle s’entendit dire froidement : Il est mort.

Et Laura baissa les yeux, laissant à Raederlea la possibilité de reprendre ses esprits malgré le choc de la nouvelle.

Raederlea

Raederlea's mouth dropped open. Her body tensed up as she stood up even straighter. She was screaming inside herself while attempting to remain calm to his wife.

"Dead? No, he can't be dead." Rae said regaining composure.

"He has been dead 2 days. Killed by a slave." Lauratacc said.

"Did you see him? Are you sure? A slave?" Raederlea said. She was clenching her teeth together. Her eyes were turning a blue gray. How could this be? Batonnoir was a mighty warrior. Killed by a slave? Her eyes quickly moved back to Lauratacc.

"I see him after.. with the blood... I killed the slave just after" Lauratacc said.

"I do hope the slave had a slow painful death." Raederlea said as she bit the inside of her lip so as not to show anymore emotion.

"I'm sorry... now we make a ceremony for Batonnoir.. he was really important for tlaxcala, he was the father of Mittys... he was sometimes strange man... it's really difficult for everybody." Lauratacc added.

Suddenly Raederlea felt bad for slamming this poor woman with a million questions right after her husband passed away. She turned back to her and wiped a single tear from her eye then turned back around to face his wife.

"I'm sorry for your loss. Do you have something of his I can have?" Raederlea said attempting to control her tempo and breathing.

"I don't know... maybe. If you want... you can come in his calli to take something." Laura said with a bit of surprise.

"Yes I would like that. I will send Celendina the woman who tended his wounds." Closing her eyes she whispers, "I can't believe he is dead."

"Yes, everybody thinks he was immortal. Laura added in response to Rae.

"And yet you seem fine." Rae said.

"No.. but I must do lot of things for the ceremony.. inform the familiy.. and I must try continue without him.. it's so strange because I was his wife for so many year.." His wife answered. "He said to me that he wanted to marry you." She added.

"Thank you .. I must go and be alone now." Raederlea said as tears ran down her cheek. Lauratacc saying those words to her was more then she could bare, She had no idea he had spoken with her about asking for her hand.

"I understand..." Lauratacc responded. "We must be courageous."

"I shall send Celendina to you. If you need anything, please let me know. Thank you for coming." Rae said as she walked out the door and passed her guard who quickly and quietly followed.
_________________

Goddess of Controversy
Tlatoani for Tepeyacac
Prior 3 Term Pochteca of Tepeyacac

Lauratacc

She raised eyes. She saw the sadness of Raederlea, maybe anger.

Laura had a terrible grudge against her... she wondered why she had come!

She refused to see this brilliant love and devotion of this woman for this man ... Batonnoir had loved her too! She was angry against Raederlea because herself had never experienced such feelings, mutual respect ... a deep love ... she realized she did not know what it was! Nevertheless she had loved... So why Rae? What had she more than Laura?

Her glance became hard but no feeling showed through. They would have been able to support themselves mutually, to cry, to shout and to drink together. But Laura was incapable of it.

Love drove crazy and destroyed. What a ridiculous feeling! Love made weak . Laura was not weak. She simply wanted to feel reassured, to say to herself that she was better than the others and to try to calm her jealousy.

She answered Raederlea's questions as it should be, words of convenience ...

The meeting came to an end Laura was relieved, she got up. She wanted to be forgotten, to disappear, not to have any more to face somebody.

Raederlea leaving... Laura looked at this woman loved by her husband. She felt a single tear running down her cheek ... she murmured: He loves you ...

Then without a look, she left.

Elle releva les yeux. Elle vit la tristesse de Raederlea, la colère même.

Laura lui en voulait terriblement… elle se demandait pourquoi elle était venue !

Elle refusait de voir cet amour éclatant, le dévouement de cette femme pour cet homme… Batonnoir devait l’aimer aussi ! Elle en voulait à Raederlea car elle-même n’avait jamais connu de tels sentiments, le respect mutuel… un amour profond… elle réalisa qu’elle ne savait pas ce que c’était ! Pourtant elle avait aimé… Alors pourquoi Rae ? Qu’avait-elle de plus que Laura ?

Son regard devint dure… mais aucun sentiment ne transparaissait. Elles auraient pu se soutenir mutuellement, pleurer, crier et boire ensemble. Mais Laura en était incapable.

L’amour rendait fou, détruisait. Quel sentiment ridicule ! L’amour rendait faible. Laura elle n’était pas faible. Elle voulait simplement se rassurer… se dire qu’elle valait mieux que les autres et tenter d’apaiser sa jalousie.

Elle répondait aux questions de Raederlea comme il se devait, des paroles de convenances…

La rencontre prit fin… Laura fut soulagée, elle se releva. Elle voulait qu’on l’oublie, disparaître, ne plus devoir affronter personne.

Raederlea sortit… Laura regarda cette femme aimée par son époux. Elle sentit une unique larme couler le long de sa joue… elle murmura… : He loves you…

Puis sans un regard, elle partit.

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RP: Kindness Returned