Sisimito III - Topoxte

By Henry W. Anderson

Sergeant Chiac continues his march into one of the greatest epics of the Americas, into the Maya World of U Wach Ulew (The Surface World) after escaping from the Underworld city of Xibalba and the Death Gods and Demon Lords. As he continues his search for Xch'úup Xma' K'aaba' (Molly Cervantez), who was kidnapped by the dreaded Mahanamtz (Sisimito) on their Wedding Day, he is forced to face the dangers of the mysterious and violent land, the armies of enemy Warriors, and the enchantments of Mahanamtz and his Kechelaj Komon and Kechelaj Jupuq. Finally, in the Battle for Topoxte, he faces Mahanamtz, his enchanted Warriors, and Xch'úup Xma' K'aaba' in a battle involving four kingdoms and the strange forces of good and evil, a battle that could be the beginning of the Fall of an Empire.

• Language: English
• Publisher: BookBaby
• Release date: Aug 17, 2018
• ISBN: 9789769556164

Book preview

Published by:

Jabiru Books Belize

Placencia, Belize.

Website: http://jabirubooksbelize.com

First Published 2017.

Copyright © 2017 Henry W. Anderson MBBS, Stephanie D. Anderson, and Jabiru Books Belize.

Printed Book and E-book conversion by BookBaby, U.S.A.

All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or utilized in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, or by any information storage or retrieval system, without permission in writing from the publisher and/or storyteller.

This is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places, and incidents either are the product of the storyteller’s imagination or are used fictitiously and any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, events or locales is entirely coincidental. Please note that Expedition Bold did take place. The members’ names are used in the Sisimito Series to acknowledge them.

Printed Book ISBN: 978-976-95561-7-1

EAN: 9789769556171

E-Book ISBN: 978-976-95561-6-4

EAN: 9789769556164

WORDS ABOUT THE STORYTELLER.

On the Trail to Edwards Central

April 11, 2017

Dr. Henry W. Anderson was born in Dangriga, Belize. He received his medical degree from the University of the West Indies, Jamaica.

After medical internship in Nassau, The Bahamas, he returned home to practice where he had his Private Practice Clinic for over twenty years. He also served as District Medical officer for the Stann Creek District. He has served Belize in other ways. He served as a soldier in the British Honduras Volunteer Guards. In politics, he contested both municipal and general elections. As a diplomat, he was stationed in Washington D.C. and in Guatemala City. He has been nominated to several Boards and is a Justice of the Peace.

Three of Dr. Anderson’s works have been published in Belize. They are The Son of Kinich, a volume of poetry; The Eddy, a collection of short stories; Ode to the One-Eyed Lady, a novel about a hurricane approaching Belize. Recently published, both as printed and E-books, are Sisimito, Christ Son Of Man - The Voyage To Araboth II, and Sisimito II - Xibalba. The second edition of Sisimito is titled Sisimito I - Ox Witz Ha and is the first book of the Sisimito Series. There are very few changes from Sisimito.

The late Ambassador Edward A. Laing wrote: Mastery over form and catholic technique are staples in this poet’s work, which is very accessible. Belizean writer Emory King contributed: Your poems indicate a depth of thought and a way with words that is rare in this age of sound-bytes and digest opinions. The Reporter Press stated: Every now and then, a Belizean writer produces a cerebral work that is so intellectually stimulating that it leaves one staring beyond the book and into space. Minister of Education, C. B. Hyde wrote on Ode to the One-Eyed Lady: I have come to the conclusion that this is a great book, not because it is enjoyable and easy to read, although it is, but it is, perhaps, the best book ever written on the subject with which it deals.

Dr. Anderson was the first medical student to be awarded the ‘Use of English Prize’ at the University of the West Indies.

Dr. Anderson is married to Stephanie, née Gegg-Grange. They have four children, fourteen grandchildren, and one great-grandchild. Presently, they reside in Minnesota, U.S.A.

Other Books by Dr. Henry W. Anderson

The Son Of Kinich - Illustrated Poetical Works.

The Eddy - A collection of short stories.

Ode to the One-Eyed Lady - A novel about a hurricane hitting

Belize.

Sisimito I - Ox Witz Ha: First novel of the Sisimito Series, second edition. The first edition is titled Sisimito.

Sisimito II - Xibalba: Second novel of the Sisimito Series.

Christ Son Of Man - The Voyage To Araboth II. - A Science Fiction/Religious novel.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

The map of Topoxte City used in Illustrations 19 and 20 are from: Isometrische Rekonstruktion Topoxte Stadtzentrum, Blick von Westen (Zeichnung W. Wurster). The painting used on the cover is an artist’s concept of what Topoxte may have looked like. Unfortunately, the artist could not be identified. The reconstruction of the Caana in Illustration 14 is from Chronicles of the Maya Kings and Queens. For their images in some illustrations, thanks go to Cpl. Coh, Luis Delmar as Bas, Pte. Choc, Ronaldo as Teul, and Benedicto Choc as Choco.

CONTENTS

Words about the Storyteller

List of Illustrations

FOREWORD

Government

Priests

The Military - Ranks and Insignias

Weapons

Cardinal Points

Some Maya Phrases and Words used often

Names of the Kechelaj Komon

Ancient and Modern Names of Cities and Sites

The Caves of Naj Tunich

Sisimito-Mahanamtz

Dedication

CHAPTERS

I - - - Ja’ Xakanul (Crater Lake)

2 - - - The Trail to Tulam Tzu (Kaminaljuyú)

3 - - - Tulam Tzu (Kaminaljuyú)

4 - - - The Battles of Chay Abaj (El Chayal)

5 - - - March to Quiriguá – Day One

6 - - - March to Quiriguá – Day Two: The Flooded Ja’-nima’ (Motagua River)

7 - - - March to Quiriguá – Day Three: Sib Juyub (Smoke Hill)

8 - - - March to Quiriguá - Day Four: The Ja’-nima’ Beya’ (Motagua River Valley)

9 - - - Quiriguá

10 - - An Encounter with the Hach-k’ek’ens (Waaries)

11 - - Qas Nim Ha’ (Lake Izabal)

12 - - The Trail to Zactun (Sarstoon)

13 - - Zactun (Sarstoon)

TEUL

14 - - Teul and the Qas Nim Woja’ (Very Large Flood)

15 - - Running the Beach

16 - - Still Running the

Beach

17 - - Nito (San Gil de Buena Vista) and Zactun (Sarstoon)

18 - - The March to Pusilhá

19 - - An Arrival at Pusilhá

THE MARCH CONTINUES TO OX WITZ HA

20 - - A Problem for Teul and Xipilli

21 - - Naj Tunich

22 - - Dangerous Encounters

23 - - Ox Witz Ha

24 - - Flight from the Darkness. of K’aas (Evil)

25 - - A Meeting with K’an II

26 - - The T’oit’ik-jolom Cries

27 - - Chiac Tells K’an II His Tale

28 - - March from Ox Witz Há

29 - - A Redeployment of Warriors

30 - - Planning Strategy

31 - - The Battle for Topoxte

32 - - The Warriors’ Heads

33 - - The Komon-Winaq (Meeting) with Izel

34 - -

Coszcatl

35 - - A Smile at Last

36 - -

Return to the Ch’ajch’oj Chiyul (Sacred Waterfall)

37 - - Victoria Peak

A preview of the final book of the Sisimito Series:

SISIMITO IV - THE FALL OF AN EMPIRE

NOTES

APPENDIX

The Gods

Kriol, Maya, and Spanish words in alphabetical order

Maya and Nahuatl First Names

Belize Folk Characters briefs and names used

BIBLIOGRAPHY

LIST OF ILLUSTRATIONS

1 - - Aztec and Maya Weaponry and Equipment

2 - - Paintings from Naj Tunich

3 - - Chiac’s March in Sisimito’s (Mahanamtz) world

4 - - Ja’ Xakanul (Crater Lake Volcano)

5 - - Ja’ Xakanul

6 - - The Waari Kuhoons and the Ix-tots

7 - - Battle Formation at Chay Abaj

8 - - Teul – Maya Warrior

9 - - Performing the Ch’ahb, Bloodletting Ritual

10 - The Ch’ajch’oj Jul (Sacred Cave) of Naj Tunich

11 - Drawing 18 (See Note 322)

12 - The Nine Gods of the Bolontiku

13 - Ox Witz Ha Core Site

14 - Today’s Caana (Sky Place) and an artist’s reconstruction

15 - Chiac’s March from Ox Witz Ha to Topoxte

16 - Mahanamatz Battle Formation at the Penninsulas

17 - Ha’ Yaxha and the Topoxte Islands

18 – Ha’ Yaxha

19 - The City of Topoxte: A Theatre of War

20 - Battle Formations at Topoxte

21 - Painting of Classical Maya Warfare

22 – Chultuns at Topoxte

23 - Chiac’s City of Ox Witz Ha

24 - Bas, Choco, and Teul playing a friendly game of Pitz

25 - The Ch’ajch’oj Chiyul

26 - Victoria Peak

27 – The Village of Santa Cruz, Toledo, Belize

FOREWORD

GOVERNMENT

Ajawinel – King of a large independent state or kingdom.

Chichu’ Ajawinel – Queen.

Ajaw – Lord, Ruler, King, or Leader.

Ajawal – The King of a vassal state.

Ahau is a Royal title and the highest ranking political office held at any given Maya city.

Alaxel – Prince.

Alixel – Princess.

Nimalaj Achi – Head Man or Great Man of a town or village, of Royal lineage or the Elite.

Nimal – Head Man of a town or village, but not a Royal or Elite.

Ukab Nimal – Second to the Head Man of a town or village, but not a Royal or Elite.

PRIESTS

Ahau Can Mai – High Priest of a kingdom.

Chuchqajaw Rech Tinimit – Head Priest of an entire town or city.  There are usually two.

Ah-k’in – Town Priest. The word means ‘diviner’. Town Priests were assisted by four old men called Chacs.

Ah-kinob – Priest that has responsibility for conducting public and private rituals within individual towns or cities throughout an entire kingdom.

Ah-nakom – These priests carried out human sacrifice; status was relatively low.

Chilan or Chilam – Priests giving oracles. They may have used mind-altering substances.

THE MILITARY

RANKS and INSIGNIAS

Nacon is a general name for ‘officer’.

T’oit’ik-jolom is a ‘Renowned Soldier/Warrior’ of any rank.

Waach - Private.

T’uup - Smallest Unit: Section, Squad, Fireteam.

Oxib’ Nimal - Lance Corporal - 1 string necklace with 1 shell medallion.

Ukab Nimal - Corporal - 1 string necklace with 2 shell medallions.

Nabe Nimal - Sergeant - 1 string necklace with 3 shell medallions.

Oxib’ Nimal Nacon - Officer Cadet - 1 string necklace with 4 shell medallions.

Ukab Nimal Nacon - Second Lieutenant - 1 string necklace with 1 obsidian arrowhead.

Nabe Nimal Nacon - First Lieutenant - 1 string necklace with 2 obsidian arrowheads.

Oxib Nacon - Captain - 1 string necklace with 3 obsidian arrowheads.

Ukab Nacon - Major - 1 string necklace with 4 obsidian arrowheads.

Nabe Nacon - Lieutenant Colonel - 1 string necklace with 5 obsidian arrowheads.

Ukab Kaloonte’ - Brigadier - 1 string necklace with 1 jade temple medallion.

Nabe Kaloonte’ - Major General - 1 string necklace with 2 jade temple medallions.

Nim-q’ij Ukab Kaloonte’ - Lieutenant General - 1 string necklace with 3 jade temple medallions.

Nim-q’ij Nabe Kaloonte’ - General - 1 string necklace with 4 jade temple medallions.

SALUTES:

One salute to the chest: Acknowledgement.

Two salutes to the chest: Acknowledgement and Agreement.

Three salutes to the chest: Acknowledgement, Agreement, and Praise.

WEAPONS

Illustration 1: Aztec and Maya Weaponry and Equipment.

(From Wikispace.)

Ba’at - Wooden axe edged with flint and/or obsidian blades.

Bate’ - Spear.

Ch’ab - Arrow.

Ikaj - Stone axe.

Jatz’om - Spear thrower or atlatl.

K’iaqbal-ch’ab - Bow for shooting arrows.

K’iaqbal - Sling stone or dart.

Kus - Quiver for arrows.

Maquahuitl - Club.

Pub - Blowgun.

Q’osibal - Short, thick stick used as a weapon; club.

Sk’op - Bow and arrow together.

To’bal-rib - Shield.

U-yeh - Blade.

Wik’iaq - Slingshot or sling.

Xjos - Small sickle. (also: ixjos.)

RELATED MILITARY

Oxib’ - Third.

Ukab - Second.

Nabe - First.

Batab - War Chief.

Kohaw - War helmet made of stone such as pyrite, worn only by Ajaws and Kaloonte’s.

Nabe Ajch’o’j’ – First Warrior.

Ukab Ajch’o’j – Second Warrior.

CARDINAL POINTS.

NORTH: Xaman  -  God Can-Tzicnal  -  White.

SOUTH: Nohol  -  God Hozanek  -  Yellow.

EAST: Lak’in  -  God Hobnil  -  Red.

WEST: Ochk’in  -  God Zac-Cimi  -  Black.

SOME MAYA PHRASES/WORDS OFTEN USED

Áayin - Crocodile.

Áayin as it sleeps in the chokoh: Crocodile as it sleeps in the warm weather.

A’kl (Ke’kchi) - Trumpet Tree. Refers here to the dried leaves used for smoking. The Mopan word is cho-otz.

Baläm - General name for ‘jaguar’.

Batz - Howler Monkey.

Beyxan teen - Me too.

Chokoh - Warm weather.

Chakuj tutuchci - To work the stiff penis. To have sex.

Chan-koxol - Mosquito.

Cho-otz (Mopan) - Trumpet Tree. Refers here to the dried leaves used for smoking. The Ke’kchi word is a’kl.

Chúumuk Sacbeob - Central Road.

Hach-k’ek’en - Waari.

Icim - Mottled owl.

Ix Na Li Kawa - Mother Of God.

Ixca junes maka ka metzev! - We are never stronger than when we are one!

Ja’ Xakanul is the name used for both the ‘water volcano’ and its ‘crater lake’.

K’uutz - Marijuana.

Ka xi’ik te’ex hatz’utzil - Good luck.

Kechelaj Jupuq - Jungle Horde of Sisimito’s enchanted animals.

Kechelaj Komon - Jungle Folk.

Ke’eleen: I’m cold.

Kitam - Peccary. Kriol is pikayri.

K’i’ik - blood.

Ko’one’ex - Let’s go.

Kool - Milpa.

Koolnáal - Milpero.

Kos - Laughing Falcon.

Krus-be - Crossroad.

Kua - Tortilla.

Lej-xajäbs - Sandals.

Mahanamtz - Sisimito.

Mix-ba’al - Nothing.

Nacon - Military officer

Nah’ - Mother.

Nim-ja’ - River.

Nim-ja’ Ti’ K’i’ik - River of Blood.

Nim-ja’ Ti’ Puh - River of Pus.

Nim-ja’ Ti’ Síina’ans - River of Scorpions.

Puh - pus.

Sacbeob - Road.

Síina’an - Scorpion.

Taat - Father.

Tak sáamal - Until tomorrow.

Tin bin ichkíil - I’m going to take a bath.

Tin bin tz’oon - I’m going hunting.

T’oit’ik-jolom - Renowned Soldier/Warrior.

Tóolok - Means ‘small lizard’ and is the name Chiac uses for his penis.

Tu laak’ k’iin - Until another day.

Tz’o’okeen: I am done.

U Wach Ulew - Name of the Surface World.

Xch’úup Xma’ K’aaba’ - Woman With No Name.

Xir - Cricket.

Ya’ax-chich - Jade.

Yaxché - The Sacred Ceiba Tree that holds the three levels of Maya cosmology together.

NOTE: For simplicity and clarity, in the Sisimito Series, the plural of Maya nouns is simply indicated by the addition of the letter ‘S’ except when that word already ends in ‘S’ or an ‘X’. When a word is ‘broken’, e.g. lej xajäbs, a hyphen is used for clarity, e.g. lej-xajäbs.

NAMES OF FOLKLORE CHARACTERS AND CARICATURES:

THE KECHELAJ KOMON.

For brief descriptions see the Appendix.

Alaj Chaj-r-ij Wíinik: Hashishi Pampi.

Alaj Ponopik: Duenditos.

Etzelal Iq’: Mozon.

Hach-k’ek’en Ajchaq’e: Waari Massa.

Kechelaj Jupuq: Jungle Horde of Enchanted Animals.

Kechelaj Komon: Jungle Folk.

Kitam Ajchaq’e: El Dueño de Los Kekeos.

Mahanamatz: Sisimito.

Patzapik: Cadejo.

Q’eq Ja Wíinik: Negro de Agua.

Ralxik: Mahanamtz’ bocotora clapansaya.

Tata Ponopik: Tata Duende.

Xtabai: Xtabai.

Xwáay Kumätz: La Sirena.

Xwáay Éek’: La Sucia.

Xwáay Mulibal-k’ux’: La Sigua.

Xwáay Ok’ol: La Llorona.

Xwáay Chikoop: Ole Heg.

ANCIENT AND MODERN NAMES OF CITIES AND SITES.

THOSE CREATED BY THE STORYTELLER ARE MARKED §.

Ajk’ay §:  La Venta

Balix:  Belize City

Belikin:  Belize Kingdom

Cahal Pech

Chaa Nim-ja’ §:  Cha Creek

Chay Abaj §:  El Chayal

El Baúl:  Baúl

Ha’ Ta Itza §:  Lake Petén Itza

Ixkun

Ixlu (Saklamakhal)

Ja’ Xakanul §:  Crater Lake and Water Volcano

Ja’-nima’ Beya’:  Motagua River Valley

Ja’-nima’: Motagua River

Jumulaj Yaché §:  Seibal

Lubaantun

Masuul:  Naachtun

Maxam:  Naranjo

Mictlan Chen: Cave of the Underworld.

Motul:  Motul de San José

Naab’:  Kingdom of Chiik

Naj Tunich

Nakbé

Nakúm

Nito:  San Gil de Buena Vista

Nohoch Atz’am Ja §:  Caribbean Sea

Ox Te’ Tuun:  Calakmul

Ox Witz Ha:  Caracol

Oxwitik:  Copan

Pa’ Chan:  El Zotz

Poj Suq§:  El Tintal

Porobal Awaj §:  Altar De Sacrificios

Puh:  Teōtīhuacān

Pusilhá

Qas Nim Ha’ §:  Lake Izabal

Quiché:  Santa Cruz, Toledo, Belize.

Quiriguá

Siaan K’aan:  Uaxactun (Born In Heaven)

Sib Juyub §:  Smoke Hill

Temax:  Temash (River)

Tinimit Saatal §:  El Mirador

Tipú

Topoxte (Seed of the Ramon Tree)

Tulam Tzu:  Kaminaljuyú

U Hatz’il Chaak:  El Tajín

Xunantunich

Yax Mutul:  Tikal

Yaxal:  Moho (River)

Yaxchilan (May have also been called Pa’ Chan)

Yaxha

Zactun:  Sarstoon (River)

Zaculpa

THE

CAVES OF NAJ TUNICH

Ch’ajch’oj Jul is Maya for ‘Sacred Cave’.

Chúumuk Pa-raqan-ja is Maya for ‘center corridor’. Here it refers to the ‘Principal Passage’ in the Caves of Naj Tunich.

Choq’ Ja is Maya for ‘Crystal House’. Here it refers to the ‘Crystal Room’ in the Caves of Naj Tunich.

K’u Multun is Maya name for ‘Stacking Stone’ in the Caves of Naj Tunich.

Mictlan Chen is the Maya name for ‘Cave of the Underworld’.

T’or Pa raqan-ja: This passageway or chamber is known as the Quiet Way or Paso Silencios in the Caves of Naj Tunich.

Paintings from Naj Tunich.

SISIMITO- MAHANAMTZ

If you are a man and you see him, you will die within a month. If you are a woman and you see him, your life will be prolonged.

Best described as a large, hairy gorilla with a head much like a human’s, Sisimito is a character that spans the legends of many of Belize’s ethnic groups, including the Garinagu, who call it Sisimidu. A Spanish word with the female form of Sisimita has no English translation and appears to have come from the Nahuatl word Tzitzimitl.

Tales of the Sisimito were told in the camps by the mahogany cutters of earlier days and are still passed along in villages like Ranchito and Hill Bank. He is said to inhabit high forest areas and to live in caves and rocky land. In the Toledo District, forest areas have decreased over the years because of agricultural development and the Ke’kchi believe that Tzultacah, the deity who protects them from wild animals, has taken Sisimito into the few densely jungled areas remaining; so, he is rarely seen today.

Among the Maya of San Antonio, the Sisimito is called Mahanamtz, the Maya word for a gorilla-like, mythical animal. Most accounts describe Sisimito in this way, saying also that he has no thumbs and only four fingers on each hand. He has no knees and his feet are turned backwards. His diet consists of raw meat and fruits and when feasting on human beings he will tear the body into several pieces before devouring it. Though fierce and malevolent towards humans, he is afraid of water and dogs and will avoid them at all costs.

He often assumes human form, lures people out of a village, and then kills them; because of this, he is sometimes confused with Xtabai or La Llorona. A man who looks into Sisimito’s eyes and escapes usually dies within a month. A woman, on the other hand, has a prolonged life as a result. Male and female Sisimitos exist only in certain areas; they kill human members of the same sex and abduct, and sometimes rape, those of the opposite sex.

A young farmer from the Toledo District once reported that his wife had been carried off by a Sisimito and because authorities believed he had killed his wife they imprisoned him. Sometime later, a group of hunters discovered a wild-looking woman drinking at a stream by the hillside. They tried to capture her, but she struggled violently, more so when a Sisimito appeared at the top of the hill carrying a child who looked like a cross between a monkey and a human. The Sisimito shrieked wildly and purposely dropped the child. He then trampled down the hill and threw branches at the hunters who, nevertheless, managed to carry the woman away. When they brought her before the imprisoned man, however, he was unable to recognize her saying that his wife had been young and attractive unlike the wild, unsightly woman he saw before him.

The woman refused to speak or eat and she died a few days later, pining away for her lost child.

Especially on Sundays and religious holidays, such as Good Friday, Sisimito preys on hunters and other people who stray into the bush. He follows human footprints, with his main purpose being either to kill his victims or rip off their thumbs; he will also attack men who are killing animals needlessly or destroying the forest.

Sisimito harbors an intense desire to learn to speak and, in a desperate attempt, will kidnap children with hopes of learning to talk from them. The children cannot be rescued because the trail leading into the forest can be wiped out by the Sisimito who sometimes reverses his feet and runs heels foremost. He is fascinated by fire and will sit patiently by a hunter’s fire until it goes out and then dines on the embers.

Despite all this, he is not invincible and can be outsmarted in various ways. He can be shot in the face; the rest of his body is protected by thick hair and would not be affected by bullets. Also, on seeing Sisimito, you can strip naked and dance and jump about, making him laugh uncontrollably until he falls down unconscious. If you dance in a circle he will try to follow you, but because his feet are on backwards he will trip and fall.

Some say that he fears his own blood and, to make him run away, you can hand him your machete and, while his hand is grasping it, quickly pull the machete away causing him to cut his hand deeply.

The Sisimito can, in fact, be tricked in a couple of ways because of his limited intelligence. When you walk away from him he becomes confused, thinking that you are actually approaching him. Sometimes, you can make a path of footprints that lead into the bush and Sisimito, unable to follow the trail any longer, will turn and begin to follow his own footsteps, thinking they are someone else’s. The ultimate way to get rid of him, however, is to set fire to his long hair.

The above extract and artwork were taken from Characters and Caricatures in Belizean Folklore.

Note: The meaning of the name Stephanie is ‘Victorious’. The Ke’kchi Maya word for ‘victorious’ is chabi’l na’leb. The rest of the

Dedication’s translation is in Mopan Maya, kindly done by Federica and Benedicto Choc.

Illustration 3: Chiac’s March in Sisimito’s (Mahanamtz’) World

THE SURFACE WORLD:

U WACH ULEW

1

Illustration 4 – Ja’ Xakanul.

CHAPTER ONE

JA’ XAKANUL (Crater Lake Volcano)

K’iin 9 - The Uinal2 of Yaxk’in’3

Tuesday, May 8, 1973

I felt someone kicking me in the butt and knew I was alive. I opened my eyes and closed them very quickly. Even though there was heavy overcast, it was still bright enough to sting my eyes. I must be out, out of Xibalba.

Having been in the Underworld for eight days, my eyes needed time to adapt. I sat up, my eyes still closed. 1 slowly opened them to see Yochi kneeling beside me. Yochi, my friend, I said, trying to stand, but I was weak and disoriented. The air stunk and there was the distinct smell of sulfur and the ground was black with ash and small pebbles. Oh fok! I shouted, absolutely distraught. We’re not out.

We are, he responded. Rest. We have time. He stood up, looking into the distance. He had no weapons, no armor, no loincloth, nothing except for a very wet skin and lej-xajäbs. I was dressed exactly the same.

Where are the others?

"We are the only síina’an to surface and we have just got out of the ha’.4 You didn’t wake. I brought you to shore."

I was still unsettled, my mind clouded, as I turned to see where he was looking. We were on the edge of the bank of a large lake, or ha’, about a mile wide, having a distinct green color. Gasses were bubbling from it, and the surface was quite rough, a strong wind blowing overhead. What I had regarded as a bank was, in fact, a stony ledge about twenty feet wide which formed the rim of the lake. The ledge had a moderate incline downward to the water which actually reached almost as high as the ledge in some places, waves occasionally washing onto it. I glanced around. We were on the summit of a mountain and the lake was definitely a crater lake.

I felt drizzle and gazed upward. It seemed so long ago that I had felt drizzle, or rain. Storm clouds rushed overhead and as I looked around, I saw that some of the higher mountains, and the valleys between them, were completely covered in clouds or mist. Those mountains were volcanos and there were at least four of them west of us and one to the east. Even through the storm clouds, I saw occasional flashes of flames as the volcanos spewed fire and molten rocks into the air.

There was some beauty and peace in the landscape and even through it brought flashbacks of the Underworld, the feeling it gave was very different. Perhaps, it was just knowing that we were no longer in the lair of the Death Gods. But that beauty and peace were jerked away. Abruptly, from out the lake rose the giant form of a síina’an with partially severed claws and sting, its underbelly facing us, ascending so high it seemed to be standing on its tail, green water falling all around it. It turned in the air and there were Warriors on its back. I automatically held onto Bas’ Green Scapular.

The síina’an was tilting backwards and it was going to crush the Warriors as it fell onto the surface of the lake. Then, with what seemed to be one command, the Warriors all leapt from their positions hurling off the sides of the síina’an, the síina’an slamming the surface while the Warriors were still falling. The síina’an did not move at first then slowly began sinking into the darkness of the lake as the Warriors fell around it.

Illustration 5: Ja’ Xakanul – Crater Lake

I stood up and made to go to the lake, but Yochi held me back. You are safe here. You will not endanger yourself further. The rest of the Warriors and I will go to the edge of the ha’ and help. Ko’one’ex! he shouted, then added, Except Hulse", and started walking down the short incline to the edge of the water. I had not seen the other Warriors who were resting behind me and, as they passed me, I counted four. Seven of us had arrived at the rim so far, including Hulse, for which I was very thankful. Hulse came and sat beside me, looking at the lake with a haunted expression.

Even though the lake was rough, I was able to see the Warriors. They were not too far out and were swimming quickly with even and strong strokes, no panic. They were loosely grouped in twos, some obviously helping others. I kept searching the surrounding water, trying to see any signs of the other two síina’ans. There were no indications they were there.

The first two Warriors approached the edge of the lake, but Yochi and his Warriors did not move. As they climbed out the lake, each hit his chest then came up further on the land where they threw themselves on the ground. Four more reached the shore, a Warrior with Clarke and another Warrior with Anderson. They hit their chests, walked up the shore, and also threw themselves down. That were six Warriors and there were still others in the water, eight, swimming towards us. That meant that the whole of Kish’s5 section had made it through. Three more Warriors came first, then Teul, Choco, Kish, and Iztali. Kish and Iztali stood at the edge of the lake surveying us and the area as the final Warrior climbed onto the ledge and sat there looking out onto the lake. Yochi walked towards Kish and Iztali; Choco and Teul came towards me, nodded, and threw themselves on the ground, not saying anything. I walked over to Kish and the others who were standing in the moderate rain.

We have a total of twenty-one Warriors and all members of the Red and Black Teams that were in my section have lived. Four of my Warriors did not leave Xibalba, stated Yochi, his voice unusually soft with affection. Three more did not survive the passage. I have lost seven Warriors.

"And the other two sections. Where are they? Even if they are like the áayin as it sleeps in the chokoh,6 they will not have much more time," warned Kish. The ground started to move and we looked at each other, moderate alarm on our faces. It stopped.

"Kabraqan,"7 1 said.

"Kisin8 wants our attention, surmised Kish. He looked around. I have been here before."

You have?

"Yes, Chiac. When I was a very young Warrior I came with Knot Ajaw,9 the brother of Ajawinel10 K’an II. This is Ja’ Xakanul.11 We had to go down, perhaps fifty feet, to the lake. Now the water is at the rim. There were also six other craters. He indicated and looked to the northwest. Those too are covered. He became pensive. This mountain is swollen like an excited xpoo.12 There is too much water here. He looked to the skies. And more comes. The Chacs have some purpose, not in our favor. We should leave quickly."

What about the others, asked Yochi. If the síina’ans are weakened or dead, they may be at the bottom of the ha’ … if it has a bottom        … and the Warriors will be there with them. This lake is green. The volcano is alive and the water will be very hot below. Even if they release themselves, they may not reach the surface alive.

Is there anything we can do? asked Iztali. Kish shook his head.

"Then, Mix-ba’al,"13 I replied, utterly tormented. I couldn’t believe I had said that. Kish looked at me and nodded.

We stood looking at the rough waters of the crater lake, the rain increasing, the wind rising. There was an explosion to our left and we quickly turned towards it, the ground moving once again. One of the volcanos to the northwest had a tall ash plume above it that had pushed away the clouds that hung around it. Red burning lava was flowing out its crater.

Another kabraqan, said Iztali, appearing a little fearful and concerned.

I looked at the Warriors around me and saw the same demeanor. I was awed. If we were facing a battle with overwhelming odds against us, they would have shown no worry or fear. We were facing a natural occurrence and there was great apprehension. I had to remember, however, that in the land I was, a kabraqan was not a natural occurrence; it was the will of the gods and it brought fear.

I didn’t want to think of the men still under water, probably still alive if they were like the áayin as it sleeps in the chokoh, but I kept seeing their faces. Taat was still down there, as was Bas, Rhys, Choc, Robertson, Taylor, Parham, Ichik, Ikan, and other Warriors as well. I had to get away from their faces. If we did not leave, immediately, we’d all be dead. Kish!

Yes, Chiac.

We must move out. Now! This mountain is unstable. As you said, there is too much water. We must safeguard ourselves and those with us, if the mission is to succeed. We can only hope the others survive.

You are becoming a true Warrior, Chiac, but I do not know if that will be right for you. He stared at the lake with much disquiet and I saw that even though he knew we had to leave, beneath that stern face he was hoping he would see the Warriors swimming for the lip of the crater. Come with me, he told us, and Yochi, Iztali, and I followed him to the opposite edge of the ledge of the crater lake. Except for the summit of Ja’ Xakanul which was bare of vegetation, we looked down between breaks in the clouds at mountains and valleys, covered with jungle. I estimated we were well over ten thousand feet above sea level.

Warriors, Kish shouted, and the men got up and quickly came to us. He looked up at the small glow of the hidden sun above us. "I have been looking at Kinich Ahau’s path and we are on the east rim of Ja’ Xakanul. We will follow the ha’ to its northern edge and descend the mountain side to that valley that goes to the north. We will continue northeast to Tulam Tzu14 where we will get food, loincloths and vests, more lej-xajäbs, if necessary, then travel to Chay Abaj15 where we will get weapons. We continue north until we reach a large valley where Ja’-nima’16 flows to the Nohoch Atz’am Ja’.17 We travel down the Ja’-nima’, but when we reach Quiriguá18 we turn north, once again, until we come to Qas Nim Ha’.19 We cross that ha’ and continue to Pusilhá, then Naj Tunich, then on to Ox Witz Ha. Kish looked at me, rather deadpan. I am not sure if the cities we march through will be friendly to us. We will have no problems in Pusilhá, however, as that is the city Fuck comes from." I almost choked. By the look on Kish’s face, he knew that I had lied about my coming from Pusilhá.

How will we barter? We have nothing, asked Yochi.

"We will use the name of K’an II, Ajawinel of Ox Witz Ha, to get weapons, clothes, and food; perhaps even some slaves.

The ground moved again, violently this time and some of us were almost thrown off our feet. Large waves lashed each other within Ja’ Xakanul, some climbing onto the ledge. Boulders rolled down the mountain side, cracks appeared where we were standing, and the sound of the earth moving roared through the valleys.

"Worq’otik, "20 shouted Yochi.

There was a second violent explosion from the volcano to the northwest. That time, the ash blossomed like a cauliflower raising miles into the air with hot boulders and clots of molten lava flying in all directions. Lava was racing down the sides of the volcano at a speed that was anywhere near a hundred miles an hour.

Ko’one’ex! shouted Kish, and we started racing along the ledge to the northernmost part of Ja’ Xakanul. As we arrived at the extreme north, the mountain shook violently, throwing all of us to the ground. There was an explosive rumbling growl and as we struggled to stand up, Iztali shouted and pointed to the lake behind us. Ja’ Xakanul was moving apart. A large portion of the barren edge of the crater just to our south was falling away. Water was fountaining outwards and pouring down the side, mixing with ash, pebbles and boulders, turning everything into a muddy landslide. As the rapidly moving torrent got beyond the barren summit, it held onto trees, shrubs, and whatever animal life there was, carrying them down to the valley below.

Bursting from the breeched crater, two síina’ans21 rose up on their tails, their legs scratching at the humid mist filled air as they plummeted in the mudflow racing downhill. We did not see any Warriors on their backs, but that did not mean they were not there. The heavy rain and mist that hung over Ja’ Xakanul had reduced visibility significantly and soon the síina’ans disappeared into the clouds blanketing Ja’ Xakanul.

The síina’ans, I shouted.

The whole ha’ will go, Yochi yelled, staring at the wild scene unfolding before us.

The pressure has been released, cried out Kish, above the incredible commotion surrounding us. Perhaps that part of the rim was weak, and the rest will hold. He looked around him. Ja’ Xakanul convulsed. Ko’one’ex he roared.

We bolted down the north side of the volcano, holding on to boulders, slipping on wet ash, hitting, tearing, bruising our naked bodies as we fell. We were soon covered in grey mud, only the reds of our mouths, the holes of our nostrils, and the white of our eyes any different. Tremors were continuous and the surging water and mud from the broken crater lake above rumbled just adjacent to us, warning us of the great danger we were in. By the time we met the tree line, the roar of the water was less and I felt much safer, anticipating that the remainder of the crater rim would hold. Kish stopped us at the tree line.

"Cabrakan22 is angry, grunted Kish. If he conspires with Nohochacyum,23 I am afraid these mountains will be pulled down upon us. We must get to the base quickly and find the valley that goes to the north. He looked at me. We have come to the land of Mahanamatz and he could be anywhere. Kish looked around, warily. We will not seek him out, at this time. It is best we withdraw from these kingdoms and go to Ox Witz Ha. Once we are there we can arm ourselves, make plans to search out Mahanamatz, kill him, and rescue Xch’úup Xma’ K’aaba’."24

I had to agree with Kish. It was the only sensible tactic. And the other síina’ans? What about those Warriors? I asked, knowing what his response would be.

They are Warriors. We will not cover our tracts. If they are alive, they will follow. He looked at all of us. We are naked and weaponless, but we all have lej-xajäbs. Do not lose them. Our feet are protected and that is good for we have to travel fast. Yet, we must remain vigilant. We must always be aware of where we are going, always on the alert. We must strictly observe what is around us as we are not certain where Mahanamatz is and we do not know if the regional kingdoms are strong allies of K’an II. Do not lessen your guard and do not get hurt as we will not stop. You will be left behind. That is it. The Warriors hit their chests once. My men and I did not and Kish glanced at us then turned away. We were not going to hit our chests in agreement. We did not leave our injured buddies behind. Yet, I knew we were in a world unlike our own, one with different priorities, codes, and dangers.

As we ran into the periphery of the jungle on the wet and waterlogged jungle floor of the mountainside, Kinich Ahau had already begun his journey towards the western mountains and the Underworld. It would be just another four hours before it became dark, maybe sooner because of the rain and heavy overcast, the fact that we were still in the cloud forest, and also that there was a closed canopy above.

The terrain was muddy, slippery, jagged and rough with rocks, different sized boulders, and small ravines. Mosses, ferns, orchids, lichens, and bromeliads grew on every tree and rock surface. The trees were different from those of the lower jungle, the trunk and branches were gnarled and covered with different colored mosses. The canopy was dense, compact and not as high, the leaves small, thick, and they looked tough. Occasionally, I heard someone cuss as he stumbled or fell. We kept on going. At times, I still heard the mudflow moving on the side of Ja’ Xakanul, but as we were not in its path, we were not very concerned about it. My only anxiety, worry, fear, was with the two other síina’an and the Warriors they carried. All I could do was hope that the Warriors had survived.

We were losing daylight rapidly in the primeval scene. Clouds and mist hung among the dark green of the trees as we naked Warriors covered in grey mud, one with nature as Teul would say, moved through the place of enchantment. I was at home in the jungle. I was one with its beauty and its dangers, but I had to remind myself that was not my jungle. I was in a jungle filled with mystery, strange beliefs, dangers, and death.

We reached the base just when the last of the sunlight disappeared and peeniwali with their ghostly lights surrounded us, dancing with the rhythm of the chirp-chirp of the xirs.25 Kish called a halt.

"We will stay here for the night. Let’s make a camp then we rest. Iztali. We will guard throughout the night, two Warriors at a time.

Kaloonte’!26

The Warriors broke branches and swept a circular area large enough to accommodate the twenty-one men, removing branches and jungle floor debris that were not stuck in the mud. After that was done, each Warrior got more leafy branches to make a pad for sleeping, trying to keep his body off the wet and muddy floor, and to cover himself, hoping to fend off a little of the persistent rain. There was no food. Water was not an issue as the rain kept pelting us. There was no fire and, even though we were in the tropical jungle, the rain was cold. Before all the peeniwali had turned off their lights, all of us, except the two Warriors doing guard duty, were in deep sleep.

CHAPTER TWO

The

Trail to Tulam Tzu (Kaminaljuyú)

K’iin 10 - The Uinal of Yaxk’in’

Wednesday, May 9, 1973

I awoke to the sound of Yochi getting the Warriors up. As I stood and looked around, I realized how covered with mud we were. I joined the men as they circled the perimeter pissing, a few of them going deeper into the bush. I decided to join them as I did not want to have to shit once we had begun running. Once we moved off, Kish wouldn’t want to stop for anyone, anything, but he wouldn’t leave me behind and I would slow down our progress. He wouldn’t be too happy having to stop for me to shit. Anyone else, he would leave behind and they would have to catch up. We had no food to eat and so as we were finished with our morning necessities, Kish called Yochi, Iztali, Teul, and me for a briefing.

"We travel north, as quickly as we can and we should come rapidly to the valley I saw from the ledge on Ja’ Xakanul. There will be a track going northeast to Tulam Tzu and to Chay Abaj. Many traders travel from Tulam Tzu to Baúl27 and other cities to the southwest. They pass below Ja’ Xakanul. There may also be some enemy Warriors from unfriendly kingdoms. As we have no weapons, it is best to avoid all travelers. From Chay Abaj we take the trail going north to the Ja’-nima’. From there we will travel by canoe to Quiriguá.

"Perhaps we could take other trails and go north to Zaculpa then to the Chixoy.28 From there we could go by canoe to Porobal Awaj29 then east by canoe to Jumalaj Yaché,30 suggested Yochi. That way, most of the trip will be by canoes. The land after Seibal is not mountainous and there are tracts and sacbeobs31 to Ox Witz Ha."

It is a good route, Yochi, but it is dependent on securing canoes and the kingdoms there are not in alliance with Ox Witz Ha. Even while on the route to Quiriguá, we must be vigilant. Kish paused momentarily then continued. We are now twenty-one Warriors. I am Nabe Kaloonte’ and Yochi, you are Ukab Kaloonte’. Yochi hit his chest. Fuck, Teul, and Iztali, you remain Nacons. I want all of us to be able to communicate with each other immediately we need to. I will be addressed as Kaloonte’. All the rest of us will be addressed by our names until I advise otherwise. I do that because should a Warrior shout Kaloonte’, who is it, Yochi or me? Should a Warrior shout Nacon, who is it? You Fuck, or is it Iztali or Teul … Ichik or Ikan when they rendezvous with us later on? We all looked up at him, but did not respond to his remark about the missing Warriors. I will have a briefing with the Warriors and inform them. He looked at me. Which name will you use. Fuck?"

I will use Chiac, I answered. When I get to Ox Witz Ha, I will go back to the name they gave me.

Kish nodded. When we are alone, you may all call me Kish.

Kish called all the Warriors together and gave them the briefing. When he was finished, we beat our chests three times. Now, let’s find that trail to Tulam Tzu and to Chay Abaj. We beat our chests again, once. "As our troop comprises twenty-one Warriors, we will divide into three sections of seven Warriors each and walk through the jungle. Yochi and Chiac. Take your Warriors and go straight ahead. Iztali and Teul, you take Clarke, Anderson, and any three of our Warriors and go to the right. I will take Choco and the five remaining Warriors to the left. Move quickly, but quietly. As soon as the trail is found, do the whistle of the baläm. We will come to you. Should I want you to stop, I will do the whistle of the baläm twice. Now, ko’one’ex."

I wanted to ask about the rest of my men and the Warriors we had left behind, but I refrained. I felt sure that Kish had them in mind, but in that land, it would not be the Way of the Warrior for me to ask. I was still learning the ways of my people, my brothers, my comrades. Kish wanted to get me to Ox Witz Ha and that was his mission. I was his package.

It was not easy trying to march through the jungle with no machetes and only lej-xajäbs for clothes. Not wearing cloths hadn’t deterred the Warriors as they rushed down the slope of Ja’ Xakanul even though their muddied bodies were covered with bloodied injuries and swollen bruises received during the battle at the Nim-ja’ Ti’ Síina’ans.32 I looked at my own body. It still carried a slight golden hue, was lacerated and bruised like the other Warriors, was itching like fok,33 and I burned where my sweat entered my wounds; that was everywhere.

The area we were traveling through was mountainous, heavily forested and had thick canopies. We frequently met with sak-ya’34 trees filled with chico zapote,35 many of the fruit fallen to the jungle floor. We picked up some and ate as we walked. Fortunately, we also came across ripe maami36 and tried to carry as many as we could. The terrain was rough with gullies, gorges, and numerous small creeks that were muddy and overflowing because of the rains. In the deeper gullies, we often came upon waari kuhoons37 and ix-tots38 and their prickles and hooks tore into us. The Warriors did not make a cry. My men had cussed frequently when we started walking then I heard them no more.

The rain had slowed, significantly, being only an occasional drizzle, but the sky, where we could see it through the canopy, was still filled with low hanging dark clouds. The jungle floor had a lot of debris and there were síina’ans, kaans,39 ixtutz’s,40 ixpeqs,41 chan-koxols42 and other singing biting flies, everywhere. The continuous chirp-chirp of the xirs was annoying, but helpful as it covered any noise we made as we stepped on the debris. There was even an odd peeniwali, confused by the darkness of the jungle.

There were not many shrubs and other plants due to the thick canopy and, because we had lej-xajäbs, we moved at a good pace. As the undergrowth was thin, we were able to avoid further harm to our bodies, most of the time. I heard no complaints from the other two sections so I knew my men were keeping up and, as we walked, my respect and love for them grew. I felt growing pride that we weren’t falling behind, even though I knew we were putting out our all. We continued through the jungle and no one spoke.

We had travelled about an hour when we heard the whistle of the baläm and we were soon all gathered on a trail. After assuring us that it was the trail between Baúl and Tulam Tzu, Kish called a short rest. Not wanting to cramp up, we did not sit, but walked around. There was a muddy creek nearby and I washed my face in it, but refrained from drinking. I knew that we would soon have to drink, but if the creeks continued being muddy, it wouldn’t be safe to use them for drinking unless we had to. The humidity and heat were intense and Hulse and I were sweating heavily, so much so that the mud on our body was beginning to drain off. Yochi and the other Warriors did not appear to be bothered much, their mud cover still relatively intact. I knew the trees and vines that held water and I had seen some, so we were not in any real danger of dehydration, and I could cut them as needed. I also knew of a plant, the one Nah’ had shown me one day as we walked back from the kool, and I was sure I could find some. Molly and I had chewed its branch to quench our thirst as we escaped from Mahanamtz. I wondered briefly about Molly then pushed her from my mind. I did not look for the plants, however, as that would have delayed us and I was sure Kish would have wanted none of that.

We were soon on our way again. The trail wasn’t clear, however, as we met many large blowdowns, the trail often covered with mudslides having embedded rocks, uprooted shrubs and small trees. At times, it was completely washed away and it became more and more obvious that the region had experienced heavy rains and wind. Yet, we kept on going at as good a pace as we could, Kish calling a short rest about every two hours. He repeatedly sent Yochi and Teul ahead to recce,43 but they never advised us of anyone approaching. I concluded it was highly possible that trade and visiting had been postponed because of the storms that had wreaked havoc in the region.

Eventually, the trail became more like a sacbeob, relatively clear of blowdowns, and about one hour before dark we arrived at the outskirts of a flat and fertile plateau. It sat between mountains and was lush. Large farms, not the typical kool or milpa, abounded as far as we could see. There were no people, but that wasn’t unusual as the farmers would have already left the farms for the city.

Tulam Tzu, announced Kish, pointing to beyond the farms. We will go into the jungle, away from the sacbeob, and rest there for the night. As we approached, I heard the sounds of a stream nearby. We can quench our thirst.

What about food, I asked. Can’t we go into the city and get food. We have only eaten small amounts of fruit since the festivities in Xibalba. We need to maintain our strength.

Kish frowned at me. Think with your head, Chiac, not with your stomach. He chuckled. Look at us. We are naked and covered with dried blood, mud and ash. The citizens of Tulam Tzu will think we are all escaped slaves and treat us as such. In the morning, I will decide how best to go into Tulam Tzu. Once Kinich Ahau leaves U Wach Ulew, I will send three Warriors to the farms. They will bring back food.

I nodded, feeling a little abashed at another reprimand.

Illustration 6: The Waari Kuhoons and the Ix-tots.

Look! exclaimed Kish. A bright and large moon began rising above the mountains. "Tonight, Ix Chel is bright, even though there are dark clouds in Kaán.44 She gives us light to find food. We have no iztāc-octli, but we have water provided for us by Ixazaluoh45 herself. Ko’one’ex." We all moved into the jungle and soon found the creek. It was not as muddy as the ones we had passed before, and we all drank readily. I also noted that the jungle in the area was not as damaged as that which we had marched through.

When we were finished, I called over Hulse, Clarke, Anderson, Choco, and Teul as I wanted to talk to them. Let’s sit in the creek and have a huddle, I suggested.

Hulse glanced around. No one else is in the flippin water, Chiac. I looked up and down the creek. It was true. The Warriors were each cleaning out a small area of the jungle floor on which to sleep. Each had placed his lej-xajäbs in his area. I’m not sure why, but I think we should follow what they do.

It’s just that we need to talk. I want to know what happened. We need to talk about the future. We need to make plans.

My future is here, Chiac, uttered Clarke. He hung his head. No more Barbados for me, but at least I have a life. A different life, one I still don’t understand and find hard to accept, but a life. Here, I am not dead.

We’re all tired, Chiac, urged Teul. We do have a lot to talk about, a lot to try to understand, but let’s leave it for now. The current focus is to get to Ox Witz Ha. We can talk then.

I felt scolded again, but I decided to do what Teul had advised. I would not pull rank. I looked at him and nodded. He had grown. He was becoming someone I could really depend on. Thanks, Teul. We’ll do as you suggest. Now, let’s get some rest. I do not know what tomorrow will bring. The men turned quietly and, after cleaning a small area of ground, placed their lej-xajäbs neatly as the other Warriors had done. They promptly threw themselves down and fell asleep.

I cleaned my area, took off my lej-xajäbs, and lay down, but I couldn’t sleep. My balls were itching me and my crotch was wet and dirty. I got up and went to the creek. I smelled my armpit and had to move my nose away. "Ch’ich’-rech-par,"46 I grumbled. I began washing my balls, Tóolok, and my butt crease. I heard a chuckle behind me. It was Kish.

Why didn’t the Warriors bathe? I asked. I would have thought everyone would bathe. We stink like the par."

"When you sleep on the jungle floor, it is best that you smell like the jungle. If you don’t, when the baläm or the chikoop,47 the síina’an or the kaan, or even the xop48 comes, the tired Warrior can be in danger. He can be bitten or taken. No animal, big or small, likes the ch’ich’-rech-par. He chuckled again. When Kinich Ahau returns, we bathe and get ready for our entrance to Tulam Tzu. He handed me a maami. Eat."

So, the Warriors have been sent for food and have returned. I didn’t know.

Kish shrugged his shoulders and sat beside me. I sent Yochi, Iztali, and Chicahua, but I will let the Warriors sleep further. They will eat when Kinich Ahau arrives, unless they awaken during the night.

I looked up. Moon beams had filtered down on us through overcast skies and the canopy. I immediately remembered the night at Mahanamtz’ cave, when he had his jungle wedding. The moon was bright, yellow petals were falling, and Molly was beautiful. I closed my eyes and pushed the thoughts away.

You worry about Xch’úup Xma’ K’aaba’, Chiac?

I looked at Kish. "Yes, Kish.

Kish glanced up at Ix Chel. "As must your body. You have not had her beneath you for many k’iins. That is not good for a Warrior. The tutuchci49 must have its way. If we do not find her soon, you must take another woman."

I almost laughed. I was eager to talk to Kish as a close friend would. I wanted to tell him that the only time I fucked … made love to Molly was at the Hidden Valley Falls. I didn’t. I was afraid it would make me appear less a Warrior. I sighed, stood up then sat again. I finished my fruit, looked beggingly at Kish and he went to get some more. We ate in silence most of the time and then I stood, once again. Good night, Kish.

Good night, Chiac. He didn’t move.

Aren’t you going to sleep?

I will guard a little more then one of the Warriors will take over. We are close to Tulam Tzu and it is wise to have a guard. I nodded, found my little spot on the jungle floor and slept.

CHAPTER THREE

TULAM TZU (Kaminaljuyú)

K’iin 11 - The Uinal of Yaxk’in’

Thursday, May 10, 1973

I awoke to men waking up, pissing, shitting, eating the fruit Yochi, Iztali, and Chicahua had brought the night before. I pissed then walked towards the creek to drink. Kish, Yochi, and Iztali were bathing.

Come and bathe, Chiac, said Yochi. It is time to remove the jungle from our bodies. I smiled and walked into the pool they were sitting in. The water felt good and I immediately began washing myself.

The four of us will go into Tulam Tzu first, explained Kish. "I will speak with the Batab50 and see what arrangements we can make. I will be Nimal, in command, and you will be my slaves. I will tell the Batab that we are trade emissaries of K’an II and we met with disaster at Ja’ Xakanul. I will ask for food and loincloths. I will not ask for weapons for all of us, just a few for hunting. If I ask for many weapons, they will become cautious and distrustful. Yax Mutul’s influence has reached far into this region and many secret alliances have been made. Those alliances are not with Ox Witz Ha, as you would know, Yochi."

I am no longer a citizen of Yax Mutul. He stood up. We need weapons, Kish, countered Yochi. What happens if they attack us when we are all there, or when we leave, knowing we are unarmed?

Indeed, they may attack us. Kish shrugged his shoulders. We will make good slaves, he added, nonchalantly.

I don’t understand. Then why go there? I asked. We don’t need loincloths and we can find food in the jungle. How can we even explain losing all our loincloths?"

We need weapons, argued Yochi. "Although there is much trade between these kingdoms, there is also much hostility. We will not be safe further along on the