The journey to Cayocan

A current section of my story, It’s a draft. Set in an ancient Mesoamerica world.

Context: ( Characters- Tezca, the main protagonist- Xochi, his sister- Renzo, his friend- Locaris, his guardian/teacher).

(Nahualli is a type of ‘soul energy’ that can be used for unique supernatural abilities).




The market was lively—festive music filled the air, and dancers twirled elegantly to the rhythm. The smell of warm, seasoned meals drifted past as stalls displayed colorful goods.

Locaris approached a food vendor, glancing over the menu. “Could I get…” He paused, rubbing his chin thoughtfully. “Ten veggie empanadas, please,” he decided, offering a faint smile.

With the empanadas safely in hand, he began heading back to the dorm.

Meanwhile, Tezca closed his book and stretched, a wide yawn escaping him. He got up and wandered out of his room, his gaze sweeping the empty living room and kitchen.

Knocking on Xochi’s door, he called out, “You in there?”

“Come in!” she yelled.

Tezca pushed the door open slowly, revealing the chaos inside. Piles of clothes and books cluttered every surface, and Xochi sat at her desk, surrounded by a fortress of textbooks and notes. She scribbled something down, barely looking up as he entered.

“What is it?” she asked softly, her tone distracted.

“Where is everyone?” Tezca asked, carefully navigating the mess.

“Locaris went out, and Renzo’s in his room,” Xochi replied, setting her pen down and leaning back in her chair.

“Where did Locaris go?” Tezca pressed, his brow furrowing with curiosity.

She shrugged. “He didn’t say. He’s been out for about… half an hour.”

“Hmm, okay” Tezca said, his gaze sweeping the room. “And make sure you tidy up before we leave.” His tone was soft but firm.

“Yeah, sure” Xochi replied, flashing a mischievous grin that made it clear she had no intention of cleaning.

Tezca sighed, shaking his head slightly in annoyance before stepping out of her room.

Locaris nudged open the dorm’s door with a casual ease. “I’m back! With lunch!” he called out, his voice carrying through the hall. Tezca, who had been lounging near the kitchen, broke into a smile and began making his way toward the enticing aroma.

The sound of a door slamming open bursted out. Xochi bolted from her room, her hair slightly disheveled, and, in one fluid motion, launched herself at Tezca. “Out of the way!” she declared triumphantly as she climbed over him, forcing him to the ground in her pursuit of food. Tezca, now sitting suddenly on the floor, quickly scrambled up, grabbing at Xochi in retaliation.

“What’s your problem?!” he growled playfully, grappling with her over the prized empanadas. They shoved each other’s faces, tussled wildly, and Xochi even managed to yank a handful of Tezca’s curly hair.

Renzo strolled in at a deliberate, unhurried pace, raising an eyebrow at the chaos before him. “Stop play-fighting over food,” he said, his voice edged with teasing amusement. “It’s not going anywhere.” He smirked, crossing his arms as he observed their childish antics.

Xochi and Tezca froze, both glaring daggers at each other before pressing their foreheads together in a show of sibling rivalry.

“Alright, enough,” Locaris said, stepping between them and placing plates on the table. Each dish held crispy, golden empanadas, their aroma rich with chili beans, steamed potatoes, caramelised onions and a faint citrus tang. “There’s plenty for everyone.”

The sight of the food silenced the siblings’ feud instantly. Tezca and Xochi dropped into their chairs, their attention completely diverted. Locaris and Renzo each took their seats as well, with slightly smaller portions on their plates.

“Finally,” Xochi muttered, eyeing her plate hungrily.

The room filled with the crunch of crispy empanadas being devoured. Tezca and Xochi tore through their food with impressive speed, leaving behind nothing but spotless plates. Renzo and Locaris ate more slowly, exchanging glances as they watched the spectacle.

“Do you two even taste your food?” Renzo teased, earning twin glares in return.

Locaris chuckled before leaning back in his chair. “You know, the geography of this place still amazes me” he said between bites.

“The north and west feel completely different from the south and east. It’s like two separate worlds.”

Xochi paused mid-sip of water, raising an eyebrow. “How so?” she asked curiously.

“I can’t put my finger on it,” Locaris replied, gesturing vaguely with his hands. “The terrain, the culture—it’s like crossing dimensions. You’ll see soon enough.”

Tezca listened intently, his excitement building. ‘This journey is going to be better than I ever imagined, he thought’, his eyes gleaming with anticipation.

When they finished eating, Renzo leaned back and stretched. “Alright, let’s go,” he said, standing up and glancing at the others. Urging them on.

“Yup!” Tezca agreed, glancing to his left just in time to catch Xochi licking her plate clean. She grinned at him shamelessly and gave a thumbs up.

Locaris chuckled softly as he collected the dishes. “You guys go on ahead. I’ll stay here and clean up.”

Renzo smirked as he grabbed the siblings by their arms. “Fine by me. This is our little adventure.”

Xochi’s eyes lit up. “Alright, let’s get ready!” she said, bolting back to her room.

Tezca and Renzo waited by the door, ready within minutes. “Of course she’s last,” Renzo muttered under his breath, scratching the back of his head.

Finally, Xochi emerged, her face flushed with excitement. “Lunch was great—thanks!” she said, flashing a smile at Locaris.

“Thanks for lunch,” Renzo echoed as he opened the door.

Locaris sighed, “I would say… ‘stay out of trouble’, but I fear it’s inevitable with you guys”. Xochi giggled in response. “Anyways, take care” he added.

“See you later!” the three called out, stepping outside.

Tezca paused at the threshold, his hand lingering on the doorframe. A quiet moment passed as he slowly turned back to Locaris. “Thanks for lunch,” he gleefully said with a genuine smile. Locaris nodded in acknowledgment, a faint warmth in his eyes.

The three burst out of the building, exhilaration buzzing through their veins. Above them, the sky stretched endlessly, dotted with floating islands far in the distance. The islands shimmered faintly, surrounded by multicolored clouds.

“Where are we going?” Xochi asked, her voice filled with excitement as she gazed at the floating archipelago.

“There!” Renzo shouted, pointing dramatically at the islands.

“I know that, you idiot!” Xochi snapped, her fist clenched. “How do we get there?”

Renzo smirked slyly but offered no answer.

Tezca stepped forward, unfolding a map. “Locaris mentioned a city called Cayocan,” he said thoughtfully. “I think we’ll find what we’re looking for there.”

“So, which way is it?” Xochi asked, leaning over Tezca’s shoulder.

Tezca traced his finger over the map, studying it carefully. “We’re in the south, the capital’s is southeast, and Cayocan is north,” he explained confidently.

The three stood there for a moment, gazing out at the vast world ahead of them. The wind carried the faint scent of adventure, and their anticipation grew with every passing second.

“Let’s move,” Renzo said, taking the first step forward. Tezca and Xochi followed, each of them bold and eager for the experiences awaiting them. Together, they began their trek toward the north, the start of an unforgettable journey.

They embarked, marching along the wide dirt path as the jungle stretched endlessly on either side. “How long will it take to get there?” Xochi asked, tilting her head toward Tezca.

“Five days,” he replied casually, not breaking his stride.

Xochi froze mid-step, her upper lip twitching. “The tournament is tomorrow!” she shouted, her voice loud enough to startle a nearby bird into flight. Her fists clenched tightly, betraying a mix of anger and panic.

Renzo rolled his eyes, giving her a ridiculing look. “Calm down,” he said, smirking.

“Are you two idiots?” Xochi growled, her gaze snapping between them. “How are we supposed to make it back in time?”

“We’re gonna get a ride in a nearby town,” Tezca explained calmly, pointing to a spot on the map in his hands.

“What kind of ride?” she pressed, her tone softening just enough to show her suspicion.

Tezca smirked, his voice brimming with anticipation. “You’ll see. It’ll make the journey take only an hour.”

“Huh?” Xochi blinked, momentarily stunned.

Renzo took the chance to butt in. “Yeah, that’s right, idiot,” he said mockingly.

Xochi’s face flushed with embarrassment. “Shut up!” she quietly groaned, crossing her arms defensively. “You should have said so sooner!”

Renzo chuckled as they continued walking.

A cool, fresh breeze swept across the path, rustling the leaves of the towering trees. They swayed elegantly, their branches casting shifting shadows over the red-soiled ground.

Renzo’s eyes wandered. “This jungle is great and all, but if something jumps out at us, just know I’m running faster than both of you”.

Tezca humoured, he let out a small scoff “Huh? You believe you’re faster than me?”.

Renzo grinned “Of course I’m faster! I’d be halfway to Cayocan while you’re still posing stoically with that map.”

Xochi giggled “He’s not wrong”.

Tezca tilted his head away “Yeah whatever” he said, trying not to grin.

From the bushes ahead, a small monkey-like creature emerged, its curly fur a blend of greens and browns that mirrored the jungle around it. Its hunched posture made it seem unassuming as it waddled across the path.

Tezca’s eyes lit up in recognition. “A Vireoco,” he said enthusiastically.

“So that’s what it’s called,” Renzo said, impressed.

“I’ve never seen one in person,” Tezca added, his voice taking on an almost childlike wonder. “They’re very social and friendly.”

“It’s cute,” Xochi said gleefully, crouching as she approached the little creature. She reached out and gently petted its soft fur. The Vireoco didn’t hesitate—it grabbed onto her arm and climbed up her with surprising agility.

Xochi beamed, hugging the little monkey tightly. “Aww, it likes me!”

Renzo sighed dramatically. “I feel bad for that Vireoco. Now that it’s in Xochi’s grasp, she’s not gonna let go.”

“Look, he loves it,” Xochi shot back sweetly, rubbing her cheek against the monkey’s.

Tezca shrugged. “Oh well, I guess it’s joining us now.”

The group continued onward, the Vireoco perched contentedly on Xochi’s shoulder. Sunlight filtered through the dense canopy, glistening as it passed through the cracks between leaves and casting a dazzling array of beams on the path ahead.

The jungle around them was alive with sound—the melodic chirping of birds, the rhythmic croaks of frogs, and the distant howls of monkeys created an almost musical backdrop. Sweet floral scents wafted through the air as colorful flowers blanketed the forest floor in bursts of red, yellow, and purple.

“Renzo, watch your step!” Tezca suddenly shouted, grabbing his arm and pulling him back.

Renzo blinked in confusion. “Huh? What is it?”

“That was close. You almost stepped on that ant,” Tezca said, pointing to a tiny black dot on the path.

Renzo squinted down. “Oh, uh… my bad,” he muttered awkwardly. “How did you even notice that?”

“I’ve been using my Nahualli to sense presences,” Tezca explained casually. “I don’t want to accidentally step on an ant, you know.”

“Isn’t that right, Xochi?” he called over his shoulder.

“Yeah, I do the same,” she replied, glancing back with a small smile.

Renzo watched them both, an unexpected admiration stirring within him, he pondered. A little grin tugged at the corner of his lips.

“How much longer now?” Renzo asked after a moment.

“Just a bit,” Tezca assured him, bending down to pick up a sturdy stick. He studied it thoughtfully as he carried it.

“It’s too bad we didn’t bring our weapons,” Tezca mused, turning the stick over in his hands.

“We shouldn’t need them,” Xochi replied confidently. Then, with a teasing smirk, she added, “What, are you helpless without them?”

“Of course not,” Tezca said with a faint chuckle. “It would’ve just been more fun.”

Xochi rolled her eyes, but she couldn’t suppress the grin tugging at her lips as they continued deeper into the serene jungle.

Eventually, they reached a fork in the path. One road stretched endlessly north, while the other curved toward a nearby town nestled in the distance. Xochi held onto the Vireoco’s small hand as they walked together, the creature chirping softly. A wooden signpost stood at the crossroads, its weathered lettering warmly inviting visitors into the town.

As they stepped into the aged settlement, the town’s charm came alive. Wooden beams supported adobe brick structures, their surfaces weathered but resilient. The bricks—crafted from mud, sand, water, and straw—gleamed faintly under the sun, their earthy tones blending harmoniously with the vibrant cobblestone streets.

Locals moved at an unhurried pace, chatting with one another as vendors arranged their wares. Children raced down the streets, their laughter echoing between the buildings. Tezca scanned the area with a furrowed brow, searching for their next stop. “I don’t see it here,” he muttered, his voice low. When no response came, he glanced to his side—and froze. No one was there.

His eyes darted around until they found Renzo, who was surrounded by a horde of giggling children tugging at his arms and legs. Renzo collapsed in mock defeat, making exaggerated noises as the kids cheered in triumph. Tezca sighed in exasperation, muttering, “Seriously? I took my eyes off them for one second.”

Turning again, his frustration deepened when he spotted Xochi. She was twirling with the Vireoco in her arms, her laughter blending with the rhythm of a street musician playing nearby. A few young girls joined her, their movements forming a spontaneous dance circle. Tezca shook his head, disbelief flickering across his face. “How?!” he grumbled.

With a resigned sigh, he muttered to himself, “Maybe it’s further in” and continued walking.

A flicker of doubt crept into his mind as he observed his surroundings. The absence of his destination gnawed at him. ‘Is this the wrong town?’ he wondered.

Just then, an old salesman trudged past, his bent frame burdened by a mecapal— (a strap secured across his forehead to balance the weight of a large crate on his back). The crate brimmed with fresh fruits, their colors vivid against the dull wood. Seizing the moment, Tezca called out, “Excuse me, do you know where the stable is?”

The old man froze mid-step, his cracked lips parting as his long, unkempt beard quivered. He tilted his head toward Tezca, his expression playful beneath tired eyes. “Further into the center,” he said, his voice rough but cheerful. He smacked his tongue against the roof of his mouth, adding with a faint grin, “Keep heading north, you’ll see it soon enough. Can’t miss the noise—rowdy place.”

Tezca nodded, though the salesman’s tone left him feeling slightly awkward. “Oh, okay. Thank you,” he replied, watching as the man shuffled off with a chuckle.

From the corner of his eye, Tezca noticed a distant figure sprinting toward him. It was Renzo, who stopped a few paces away, bent over and panting. “Man, those kids are persistent,” he groaned, his hands on his knees. Straightening up, he glanced around. “Wait—where’s Xochi? I thought she was with you.”

Tezca’s blank expression answered the question. Renzo rolled his eyes dramatically. “Great. Now we’ve got two mischievous monkeys loose.”

“Come on, let’s find her,” Tezca said, already marching further into the town.

Renzo groaned but followed. Tezca declared eagerly, “It shouldn’t be that hard if she stayed on the main road.”

The town grew busier as they advanced toward the center. Vendors called out to passing customers, selling food, jewelry, and vibrant textiles. Tezca noticed the streets becoming crowded, the swell of people making it harder to navigate. He sighed in frustration. “At this rate, we’ll never find her,” he mumbled.

“Don’t worry,” Renzo said with a sly grin. “She’s probably off hassling someone else. Let’s just leave her.”

Tezca gave him a humored side-eye. “That’s fine? I’ll just have to sense her Nahualli, then.”

He paused, closing his eyes and steadying his breathing. Renzo stood back, watching with amusement. A frown soon crept onto Tezca’s face as he concentrated, his brow twitching slightly. Moments later, he sighed. “Nope. I can’t.”

Renzo raised an eyebrow. “Why not?”

“I don’t know. I just feel… off.”

Renzo leaned closer, a teasing smirk playing on his lips. “Oh, is it because you’re getting anxious? Your big brother instincts kicking in, huh?”

“Probably,” Tezca admitted, his voice low.

Renzo chuckled and clapped a reassuring hand on Tezca’s shoulder. “Don’t worry, man. She’ll be fine.”

Tezca gave a slight nod, though his eyes lingered on the bustling streets ahead.

In a rough bar, Xochi and the vireoco sat at the counter, devouring a plate of nachos served with salsa and guacamole. Xochi was utterly engrossed. The tangy scent of lime and the sharp spice of chili powder lingered in the air as Xochi eagerly dipped each chip, savoring the mix of crunch and creamy flavor. She leaned back in her stool, patting her now-satisfied stomach.

The vireoco, however, was far from finished. As Xochi rested, the little monkey darted a hand toward a nearby plate of food that belonged to another customer. With quick, nimble fingers, it plucked a few chunks of meat, popping them into its mouth.

A wave of realization hit Xochi as she caught the movement in the corner of her eye. “Hey!” she hissed, grabbing the monkey’s furry wrist and trying to pull it back. The monkey resisted, and the two of them tugged at each other. In the struggle, the monkey accidentally knocked over the man’s beer, spilling it onto him.

The sound of glass hitting the counter echoed through the bar. The noise surprisingly loud.

The man’s shoulders stiffening. Slowly, he turned, the scent of spilled alcohol wafting up as foam spread across the counter and dripped onto the floor.

Xochi blinked at him. “Whoops” she said sweetly, raising her hands slightly. Trying to diffuse the situation.

The man rose to his full height, his intimidating presence now fully directed at her. His brow furrowed deeply, and his scarred knuckles cracked as his fists clenched.

“Sorry! I’ll buy you another drink, sir” Xochi offered quickly, her voice cracking slightly.

“And the food,” the man growled, pointing at his now-empty plate smeared with crumbs and grease.

“Y-yes, that too,” she replied, hastily fumbling for her small, handwoven Chimborican bag. Rummaging through it, her fingers dug into its soft fibres. Searching until she pulled out a modest pouch.

Xochi untied the pouch and peered inside. Her heart sank as she saw only two copper coins glinting at the bottom, their dull surfaces reflecting her growing dread. ‘That’s all!?’

A chill ran up her spine. Looking up at the man’s stern expression, she formed a cute smile, then—in one swift motion—snatched the vireoco off the counter and bolted for the exit.

“Hey! You haven’t paid!” the bartender shouted, his voice booming across the bar.

The bar door flew open with a loud crash as Xochi burst out, her sandals slapping against the uneven cobblestone streets. She clutched at the squirming Vireoco in her arms. Heads turned as the clamor of shouting men and the bartender’s angry bellows spilled out behind her. “Stop that thief!” someone yelled, but Xochi was already weaving through the crowd, dodging carts. A gust of humid air hit her, thick with the scent of grilled food from nearby stalls. Behind her, the man roared, and his three companions burst through the door with the bartender in tow.

“Get her!” someone yelled.

The street bustled with people, vendors calling out their wares and customers haggling loudly. Xochi ducked between them, twisting through the chaos. The vireoco clung tightly to her, chittering nervously, then suddenly reached out to grab a guava from a stall they passed.

“Stop that!” Xochi snapped at the monkey, but the little creature ignored her, hurling the fruit backward. A wet splat and an angry yell followed. The monkey continued grabbing random items—a loaf of bread, a wooden spoon, even a broom—and tossing them wildly at their pursuers, who were growing more enraged with every hit.

Meanwhile, further down the street, The distant, boisterous yells caught both Tezca and Renzo’s attention. They quickly spun their heads back, “What’s all that yelling?” Tezca asked, squinting his eyes

As the source of mayhem approached ever so closer Renzo’s eyes suddenly lit up. “It’s Xochi!” he exclaimed, “I told you she’d find trouble” nudging Tezca with his elbow.

Tezca kissed his teeth and rolled his eyes. “Why am I not surprised?”

Xochi sprinted toward them, her voice shrill with desperation. “Help!”

The brute and his gang were just behind her, their heavy boots pounding against the stones.

Renzo threw his hands up. “Looks like there’s a gang chasing her and… a waiter too?” he pointed out, confused but amused.

Tezca shrugged. “How ridiculous.” He stretched his arms, preparing to move. “Come on, get ready.”

The Four men and the bartender were closing in. Xochi’s legs burned from the effort, but she didn’t slow down.

“We’re almost there!” Xochi shouted. “Help me out!”

Tezca narrowed his eyes, watching the growing chase. The men were getting closer, but Xochi’s call made him grin. “Alright, let’s go!”

As she reached her friends, Xochi shoved the vireoco into Renzo’s chest. “Here, take the monkey!”

The monkey latched onto Renzo’s head, immediately began pulling at
his face. Squealing and tugging at his hair.

“Hey! Stop it!” Renzo groaned, trying to pull the little beast off.

Xochi smirked. “Wow, I’m surprised you two don’t get along—so much in common!” she teased.

“What’s that supposed to mean?!” Renzo growled, his voice muffled as the monkey yanked on his ears.

“Oh, nothing,” Xochi said with a giggle.

“Why are they after you?” Tezca asked, his voice slightly more serious now.

Xochi’s head drooped. “Uh… I didn’t pay for my food,” she mumbled.

“You were eating?!” Tezca asked, wide-eyed. “What happened to the money you brought?”

Xochi grinned sheepishly. “I spent it all.”

Tezca’s jaw dropped. “Huh?”

Xochi’s voice dropped into a playful, almost helpless tone. “Surely you wouldn’t mind paying for me?” she gave him her best pleading look.

“Hell no!” Tezca blurted out. “The money I brought is for the ride and emergencies.”

“Yeah, not your endless cravings,” Renzo added, still fighting off the monkey.

Xochi pouted dramatically. “Fine, fine”.

Tezca glanced back. The pursuers weren’t slowing down. “Ugh, where’s your purse?” he groaned.

“Here,” Xochi said, handing him the pouch with a sly grin.

Tezca snatched it, “I guess we should pay them back” he reluctantly voiced. He rapidly filled the pouch, quickly tightening the strings and shouted, “Here’s your money!” Waving the full-sac of coins.

He hurled the pouch toward the group, then grabbed Xochi and Renzo, pulling them into a sharp turn down a narrow alley.

The pouch landed with a soft ‘clank’ on the ground in front of the brute and his posse.

“Finally,” the bartender panted, bending down to grab it.

“Wait,” the brute growled, yanking the pouch away. Two of his men held back the bartender, as he hastily unravelled the string from the pouch.

The pouch opened, revealing… stones. A pile of small, ordinary rocks nestled alongside two tarnished copper coins.

The group froze, staring at the contents. A heavy silence hung in the air.

The brute’s face darkened as his jaw clenched. His men peered over his shoulder.

“Dammit! Those outsiders tricked us!” he roared, throwing the pouch to the ground. His voice echoing in the street.

The bartender crossed his arms, smirking. “Outsmarted by kids? That’s embarrassing.”

“So were you!” the brute snapped, slamming his fist into a wall.

One of his men hesitated. “Should we chase them?”

“No,” the brute growled. “Forget it. We’ve been humiliated enough today.”

Only narrowly escaping, they hid on the bank of a river beneath a wooden bridge. Their hearts still pounding, they waited until the danger had passed.

“HAHA, good thinking, Tezca! That distraction was great,” Renzo boomed, playfully grabbing him.

A small, genuine smile tugged at Tezca’s lips. “Come on, it wasn’t that great”.

Renzo shook his head with a fond sigh. “Always gotta be so modest.”