Neophyte

Demands

Metztli never imagined that she would have such happiness in her life. She was married, something thought of as impossible. Esteban was a man of the past, and Metztli didn't know if she would ever return to her timeline. Being married to her now husband, Metztli didn't know if she wanted to return.

She was held by Esteban, who sat beside the bonfire with her, while the rest of the villagers, many of them male dancers in traditional masks and clothing, danced in her honor. Women served the married couple their food and drinks first, which the couple graciously took. The married couple ate and watched as everyone was filled with content and happiness. 

Metztli glanced at Victoriano and his family. They all sat together, eating and drinking peacefully. Valentina still looked hesitant; her family gave her space but tried to celebrate with her anyway. It was understandable that Valentina didn't fully accept Victoriano, but it was noticeable that she was open to accepting that fact.

"How are you feeling?" Esteban asked as he took a sip of his manzanita berry drink, where berries were lightly crushed or powdered, mixed with water, and allowed to steep.

"I am feeling fantastic. This is the happiest moment of my short life."

Esteban chuckled. "Life is short, especially for us Soldados. Well, for everyone. Now, of all times."

"I know. We don't know when our end will come, but we should make the best of our lives, as best we can. How are you feeling?"

"The happiest I have ever been. I never would have dreamed that this moment would arrive for me. I didn't know whether or not I would live long enough to get married. I can die happy."

Metztli pouted. "I think we shouldn't talk too much about death, especially since we got married. I want this moment to last as long as possible. I can't believe that I have experienced all this and learned about my family history."

Esteban nodded as he held onto his wife; it made him feel giddy. You went through much, but are wedding ceremonies like this from your time?"

"It depends. The Tongva from the future are learning from what was practiced during this timeline. The Tongva and other people have lost so much over time, but many wedding ceremonies remain different. There are many different religions and practices in this land in my time. If only you could see the people who look and speak differently, the food and culture they brought. You learn so much about the world."

"That sounds like a beautiful thing. I didn't have the opportunity to travel more to learn more about different cultures. Sometimes I feel that I was born at the wrong time."

Metztli looked at her husband, then motioned closer to him. "Really?"

"I often wonder what the future would be like if it were better than the time I was born in. The way you describe things, I wish that I were there to see the many wondrous things that have been built."

"Every timeline has problems and horrible secrets, Esteban. My time isn't any different. Still, at least we have some comforts and understanding. Though some still see others as inferior."

The couple was silent as they watched everyone having fun. "So some things haven't changed, huh?"

"Somewhat, but not everyone is as bad. There will always be good and terrible people, Esteban. You can't control that aspect of humanity. All we can do is be better people."

Esteban continued holding her tightly. "You're right. We cannot give up hope, or else what are we going to teach future generations?" Then, Esteban noticed something arriving from afar; it looked like a small group. He slowly stood from his seat; Metztli looked where he was looking.