Neophyte

Visions

Mariana was in the center of the village helping other women cook food for lunch. It was something she missed doing. She wouldn't stay in the Mission for long, since she had been given special permission by the bishop to come and go as she pleased. However, when Pascual began to express his interest in her daughter, Mariana became fearful. She and Valentina missed being in the village, but they had to set aside their comfort.

She and the other women were crushing nuts to make some soup, but then noticed a couple of men heading their way. They were recognized since they were the Chief's guards. Mariana stood, knowing they had arrived for her. She was right since the guards stopped before her and informed her that the Chief and Toypurina asked for her. After excusing herself from the other women, Mariana walked to the Chief's main kizh and wondered why she was called in. 

There was a possibility that the Chief was curious about Metztli. Also, the sight of the Soldados de Cuera would cause concern and worry. "Perhaps they need reassurance that no trouble will happen in the village." Mariana eventually entered the Chief's home. Inside, the Chief, Toypurina, and the village's shaman sat around the handmade fire. Tlatoani, Toypurina, Soyala, I have arrived."

Toypurina looked at Mariana and motioned for her to sit close to her. Once Mariana sat, she noticed the Chief and Shaman looking at her. "Mariana, you were asked to come here because we wish to speak about Metztli."

"Really? She does no harm. She-"

"It is not about that, Mariana. Worry not. Soyala wanted us to meet because she saw a vision."

"A vision?" Mariana looked at Soyala, who sat silently, her eyes emotionless and empty. Mariana became concerned and was worried about what Soyala saw in her visions. Since Soyala was a shaman, shamans were known to have visions. There were many times when the visions turned out to be correct, and it made her nervous to know what Soyala saw. Seeing the expressions of the others made Mariana's stomach turn. 

Toypurina looked at her brother and Soyala and then focused on Mariana. "Soyala had two visions. The first one, she saw a vision of Metztli. Metztli was within the Mission, trapped in darkness. A figure appeared before her; Soyala said that she felt terrible intentions from the figure."

"D-Did she see who the figure was?"

"All she said was that the figure was tall and was covered in a dark robe. When Metztli looked at the figure, she looked horrified. What also concerned Soyala was that Metztli was covered in chains."

"Chains? Are you saying that Metztli may be in danger?"

Toypurina knew that Mariana was worried, and she didn't want to tell her what she had been told. Her brother and Soyala were insistent since the other visions were concerning. "There may be a possibility. Unfortunately, many of the visions do not show all. If Metztli returns to the Mission, then she will be in danger."

Mariana became thoughtful, but if there was a figure, then there was one person who could put her in danger. "I have a feeling that it could be Federico. "I know that he has a disgusting interest in her. I know it. I can see it in his eyes."

Soyala stared at the two women, aware that her vision had raised concerns among everyone. When she first met Metztli, there was something about her that intrigued Soyala. She felt that Metztli was unique, but couldn't put her mind to it.  

"Be it as it may. We must tell Metztli."

"What of the other vision?"

Toypurina's expression darkened. "It concerns all of us. Many of us were part of the vision. Soyala told us that our people stood outside the Mission walls. Guillermo, Victoriano, and I led our people toward the Mission. We were all filled with anger and pain."

The new vision surprised Mariana. "Guillermo and Victoriano?"

Toypurina spoke to Soyala in their native language, and then she looked at Mariana, "Yes. The way she described the men was of them. What was also interesting was that Victoriano carried a sword."

Mariana's eyes widened. "Sword...no..." That was when she remembered. "What about my daughter?"

Toypurina asked Soyala about Valentina. Soyala responded that Valentina wasn't seen in the vision, but Guillermo did mention her name. That was it."

Everyone sat quietly. The visions were what Mariana expected, unclear. Mariana didn't want to think much about the visions, but knowing Soyala's reputation, it was not wise to ignore them. She was relieved that Valentina wasn't part of the vision, but it also concerned her since Toypurina was seen within it. Valentina had always believed that their people should fight back and wasn't afraid to do so. Still, the vision created so many unanswered questions. "So what are we to do? Do we have to tell Metztli and my children?"

"My brother believes we should stay quiet for now until it is almost time for you all to leave. Though in my view, Metztli should stay here."

"Victoriano will never allow it. Additionally, he shared a plan that would keep Metztli safe away from the Mission."

Toypurina said nothing more as she looked at the fire. She believed it was best to say nothing since it would only add more tension to the situation. Not admitting it, but Toypurina was concerned regarding the visions, especially since she was involved. There had been secret talks about a possible war since her people were getting exhausted to the point that many were willing to fight and die for freedom. The visions may be an indication of that possible reality.

Meanwhile, Metztli and the group were still a considerable distance from the village. "Phew! Okay, that is the end of today's training, Valentina!" Metztli felt sweat on her back as she demonstrated self-defense moves to Valentina that required her to move and dodge. Valentina was breathing heavily while looking at Guillermo, who was on the ground; his clothes were dirty. "Ōnipahpac, nāchcāuh. (I had fun, my older brother.)"

Guillermo groaned while slowly getting up. 

Metztli stood before Estaban, who lay on the ground covered in dirt. Many of his men feared volunteering to be Metztli's model for self-defense. She demonstrated to them that women were capable of fighting if given the opportunity. He eventually volunteered, and he was amazed by how confident and strong Metztli was. Metztli didn't have the strength of a man, but that didn't stop her from trying to protect herself. 

She motioned her hand toward him. "Thank you for volunteering. Sorry if you got hurt."

Esteban chuckled as he gently took her hand and helped her to her feet. "Not at all. I have faced a few battles. However, you did show self-defense movements that I haven't learned. This is a learning experience for me."

"I am glad. Though, I was trying to train Valentina."

The two looked at one another, and Esteban felt his heart pounding rapidly. "I-I was wondering if you would join me for a fire tonight? I am cooking while the others are at shift."

His invitation was a surprise, and Metztli was slightly doubtful, but he believed the man was good. She was curious about him and thought it would be nice to have a good conversation alone. "I would like that."