Revolutions

85 - Walumaq

As one would imagine, the welcome we received this time is much different than when we first arrived. We're met with loud, overwhelming cheers amidst a celebratory atmosphere. People offer a bevy of foods and drink, hoisting large dishes heavy with tamales wrapped in banana leaves, and swinging huge clay jugs of pulque in our faces as we pass by, which Naqispi is too eager to try, in my opinion. Tables are laden with bowls of spicy chocolate drink, plates piled high with roasted maize, grilled fish seasoned with achiote, and baskets overflowing with fresh fruit like papayas and guavas. The air is rich with the aromas of cocoa, chili peppers, and the tangy sweetness of sapodilla. Despite our battle-worn appearance, villagers pat us on our shoulders and backs, ignoring the dark green goop caked onto our clothing, the remnants of Quetzelotl.

With their chests puffed out, the warriors proudly march alongside us as we're led past the peculiar stone monolith and on toward the throne room. There's an incoming storm on the horizon, but it hasn't shrouded the bright and festive setting, making the vibrant colors of the hallowed chamber stand out more than before. Perhaps it's because we're not being held in captivity that I feel the space is more warm and inviting than my initial impression of the cold, dark hall.

Standing tall and proud, Xolotzi greets us with a brusque nod. Through his headdress — this one reveals more of his face, replacing the bones with a regal fan of blue and yellow feathers that arches behind him like the rays of a celestial body — his face, painted with patterns in a lush green, remains expressionless.

"I don't think he knows how to smile," Paxilche jokes. This time, the offhand remark isn't met with the warriors' hostility as they ignore the comment.

A loud, boisterous Xolotzi proclaims something in Auilqa, which causes Saqatli, the boy who speaks to animals, to bow deeply. The elder who previously translated for us stands beside the ruler, yet says nothing. It's as if he expects us to deduce what's being said through context clues.

"What is he saying?" I think, hoping the boy will be able to understand and hear me. When there's no response, I'm overcome with disappointment. I mirror Saqatli's movements, bowing graciously as I've been taught to do when in the presence of Sanqo nobility. It's more of a curtsey, bending at the knees and bobbing while bowing my head. We're soon joined by Paxilche, who, confused, curtseys as I do, then followed by Pomaqli and the other warriors, who bow as the boy does. Naqispi, always needlessly defiant, remains standing through all of this.

There's a bit more pomp and circumstance, as we're regaled with an elaborate display by dancers, and another with warriors' vigorous movements and stamping of feet as if to intimidate us. Judging by the reactions when it's over, however, I understand it to be a show of appreciation and honor, as Saqatli, along with others gathered, applaud excitedly.

The ruler makes another declarative statement, and this time, the elder speaks. "You have honored the Auilqa with your generous offering, meeting the challenge bestowed upon you by our revered Tlaloqa. He has deemed you worthy to be in the presence of the Great Xolotzi, He Who Commands the Jaguar's Path, Tamer of the Monsoon's Might, Who Shrouds..."

"They think it was an honor to fight that beast?" I hear Naqispi mutter behind me as the elder rattles off their ruler's numerous titles. "Some kind of gift? These people are lunatics!" He's abruptly shushed by his comrades while I maintain my attention on the Auilqa ruler.

"The Great Xolotzi recalls your request to aid in a battle against an evil outside presence. Is this correct?" the elder inquires.

"Yes, Honored One," I state, stepping forward to address the great ruler directly while speaking through the elder. "There is a terrible threat with plans of attacking the Ulxa capital, Analoixan. With the assistance of the mighty Auilqa, we request aid in our pursuit of defeating the Eye in the Flame — a cult that not only endangers the prosperity of the Ulxa, but of all factions of Pachil."