Neophyte

Lashes

Toypurina stood before Bishop Victoriano, who sat on his seat. "I thank you for seeing me this morning, Bishop. I am certain you have much to do."

"It is no trouble, Toypurina. You have traveled here from your tribe, and I imagine there are concerns that you and your brother have."

"Yes, and I am certain you know what our concerns are."

"I have been reading reports that there are mercenaries and ranch owners who are kidnapping many of the Tongva to make them work manual labor."

"They are making my people slaves, Bishop." Toypruina became more serious as she wrapped her arms around herself. "Other tribes have been invaded and destroyed, making the survivors come to my tribe and others. Some of the survivors, especially many women, mentioned that they were raped."

The mention of rape made Victoriano cringe in disgust. He heard that ranchers, mercenaries, and even many of the Soldados of Cuera were responsible for the rape of many Tongva women. He despised men who took advantage of women. "I also heard disturbing accounts, but I will speak with the other Bishops and write to the Governor about the situation." There was something else that Vicotirano was concerned about. "Toypurina, I have been hearing rumors of a possible rebellion. Wouldn't you happen to know about this?"

Toypurina heard the rumors, and many believed she was behind the supposed plan. It wasn't her, but Toypurina knew who began the rumors: Nicolas Jose. 

Nicolas went through many tragedies as he lost his loved ones in the hands of the Padres and the Soldados who worked for them. The need for revenge fired in his heart and spirit; he was slowly trying to convince their people to rebel against the Padres. 

Although the Bishop did everything he could to improve conditions inside and outside the Mission, the other Bishops and the Governor of Las Californias prevented him from doing enough. Toypuring didn't want to turn in Nicolas since Victoriano might banish him from the Mission or worse. 

Victoriano was willing to do anything to maintain the peace.

"Be assured, Bishop, that what you heard is just rumors."

There was a knock on the door. 

Victoriano became annoyed. "Enter." The door opened, and Padre Federico entered. He gave a short nod to the Bishop as he noticed Toypurina. "What is it, Padre Federico?"

"Bishop, forgive me for the intrusion, but I must inform you that one of the Native women has given birth; the infant died."

Toypurina squeezed her hands together; she knew what the punishment was for giving birth to a dead infant. Victoriano became serious. "What of the mother and child?"

"I thought it would be best if they were put into the infirmary until you and the other Bishops were informed."

"You informed the other Bishops!?" Victoriano stood from his seat, enraged. 

"Forgive me, Bishop, but the others would eventually discover the news since Padre Miguel was present. We all know how Padre Miguel is; he will not rest until the Native woman is punished for killing her child."

Toypurina glared at Federico. "That poor mother did not kill her child. She was forced to work during her pregnancy and didn't have time to rest. All of you are to blame, not her."

Padre Federico let out a low smirk while glancing at Toypurina. "Before a child is born, it is part of the mother. The mother is responsible for caring for it until it is born."

Footsteps echoed until they reached Bishop Victoriano's room. The two Bishops entered while Padres Lucas and Miguel waited outside. "Bishop Juan. Bishop Samuel."