Revolutions

110 - Malinaxochi

As I tread the hallowed ruins, I cast my gaze upon the so-called leaders, my heart swelling with a profound and righteous disgust.

"Gather those who have failed us," I command. "Place them in the chambers and lock them into the stockades. They will need to seek penance for what they have done—or, shall I say, for what they did not do."

They look upon me with their cold, stoic faces, and nod, addressing me only by title. Their demeanor is businesslike—something I have come to expect of them. We are in a war for the heart of Pachil, after all.

"Before you go," I interrupt their departure, "Tecuani, Ihuitli, please stay behind. There is a grave matter I would like to discuss."

The others exchange confused stares, perhaps questioning why their names have not been spoken. In due time, should they be the ones to fail me, as well. They shuffle out of the dilapidated chamber, their boots swishing along the dusty, dirt-covered floor.

The eyes of the two leaders who remain are fixed upon me, watching as I stalk about the area, rhythmically patting the hilt of the dagger sheathed at my hip. After the door is shut behind the others, I wait several heartbeats, to see if either will be foolish enough to speak before I do. I find a thrill in the tension that rests in the silence. I know what is about to happen, what the outcome of our meeting will be. Perhaps, if they are astute, they will know, too. However, because of the reason they are here, I will deduce they are both completely oblivious.

Once I have finally grown bored, I begin. "Tecuani, you stand before me with the shadow of failure looming over you. Victory was within our grasp, yet you allowed it to slip through your fingers."

Unwavering, his eyes meet mine. "I take full responsibility, and I will accept whatever punishment you deem fit."

"Indeed," I say. "Responsibility is a noble trait, is it not? But, unfortunately, responsibility does not redeem failure." I try to best maintain my composure, though, admittedly, it is difficult to do, especially as The Voice speaks to me, continuously reminding me to show no mercy.

"And you, Ihuitli," I say, turning to the other leader. Sweat begins to bead at his forehead, and his eyes dart about the room. "Do you understand the consequences of failure?"

The nods of this leader are more like a nervous spasm of the head. "Yes, I understand," he stammers. "Failure is not an option. To succeed in fighting for our cause, there is no room for error."

My lips form a tight smile. "Strong words. Correct words. But words alone also do not redeem failure. A shame."

The two leaders stand still, awaiting what this means for their fate. Tecuani, as he is one to do, stands tall and proud, his presence always commanding. Ihuitli, however, slouches, his shoulders weighed down by the immense regret he feels. He has always been attuned to the emotions of others—an admirable trait for a leader.

"I commend you, Tecuani, for your willingness to acknowledge your failure," I say, praising the leader. "You are loyal, and you understand that the lives of loyal warriors are mine to command."

Then, I turn to Ihuitli, who lowers his head in shame. I can see that he understands his fate. My fingers fidget with the hilt, channeling my simmering energy. "Ihuitli, I will show you the true meaning of loyalty and acceptance."

Tecuani looks to Ihuitli, whose eyes are cast down to his feet. I feel the surge of energy roaring through my arm. My head is bowed as I walk over to the two leaders, stopping just short before I am face-to-face with them.

After one solitary breath, I nod, not looking at either man. Then, in a flash, I unsheathe my dagger. Before my victim can react, the slash is complete. I stand poised, dagger extended. Beside me, I hear the victim fall. The sound of his collapse shatters the silence in the room.