Strange divine smoke drifted out from the sanctuary and curled up into the gathering clouds. Looking down from the sky, under the towering Holy Temple is the magnificent Great Pyramid of Cholula, the "artificial mountain" Trachvaltpetl!
This ancient pyramid is more than 60 meters high and an astonishing 450 meters long and 450 meters wide. It is the largest pyramid in the world. It has been expanded six times from the inside to the outside. It is mainly made of mud bricks and mixed with granite. On the outermost layer of the pyramid, many places are covered with soil and planted with various flowers and plants.
It was summer, and artificially planted flowers bloomed on the surface of the tall pyramid. Brightly colored butterflies were attracted and flew among the blue and black bricks and stones. The majestic ancient wonder has turned into the beautiful "Holy Mountain of Flowers"!
The main hall of the sanctuary has wide doors and windows open, and the intoxicating incense disperses in the wind. Akapu sat on the soft bearskin cushion, smelling the pleasant and gorgeous fragrance, and looked at the vast sea of flowers blooming under his feet. He laughed inexplicably and was in high spirits, like a god high in the clouds, looking down at the world comfortably.
After a while, until the sacred smoke in the furnace burned out, the young priests and elders recovered from their heartfelt joy. Under the stimulation of the divine smoke, his face turned red, his heart beat rapidly, and he praised loudly.
"It's really the best divine smoke! Go to the kingdom of God in a moment and feel the great joy, just like the purest holy water. Thank you, the messenger of the gods, the leader of the Priests of Petel! I don't know what kind of precious ingredients are added to this divine smoke. Divine grass?"
The kind and noble old man laughed, his expression as usual amidst the divine smoke.
"It is true that many precious sacred herbs have been added. This is the unique inheritance of Cholula priests throughout the ages! Every portion of the sacred smoke prepared here is worth a box of gold. It is priceless but not marketable. The formula of this sacred smoke, It has been passed down since the Toltec Empire, and it has been six hundred years!”
Hearing this, Akap was amazed and showed respect.
Peter smiled smugly, with pride in his smile.
"The city of Cholula has been established for 1,800 years. Since the decline of the first holy city, Teotihuacan, it has gradually prospered as the second holy city. There are towering pyramid temples and small temples scattered throughout. Tens of thousands of civilians serve, as well as thousands of noble priests! Although the two holy cities have similar layouts, their prosperity is very different. Teotihuacan is the place where the gods left, and Cholula is where the gods return. The land, the true sacred capital!”
Akap nodded repeatedly and praised with a smile. Immediately, he changed his words and looked sincerely.
"The holy city of Cholula connects north and south trade and is famous for its richness and wealth, only slightly inferior to the capital city on the lake. The Holy Mountain of Flowers in Cholula is magnificent and beautiful, comparable to the great temple of the capital city on the lake, Teotihuacan. The Sun and Moon Pyramid is called the best in the world!
I heard that all the priests are direct descendants of the Toltec Empire, and the nobility has been passed down to this day. We Mexicans are also descendants of the great Toltecs. We all come from the same bloodline. We are truly brothers! The Mexica Alliance and the Holy City of Cholula should form an alliance with each other, which will never be easy! "
Hearing this, the priest leader Petel's smile froze.
The holy city of Cholula has always been respected and far away from the war. The many priest families in the Holy City have been passed down for four to five hundred years without interruption. They are the true Toltec remnants, that is, the "civilized people in the city." The Aztecs came from Aztlan in the far northwest, and they migrated for a long time and fought countless battles. Like the Tlaxcalans outside the Holy City, they are barbarians with blood-stained hands, the "barbarians outside the city."
During these more than a hundred years, the Aztecs settled in the capital city of the lake, claiming to be descendants of the Toltecs and the blessed Mexica people. Afterwards, they fought everywhere and oppressed the world, and all the states were forced to change their tune. But what the real history is, the holy city of Cholula certainly records it clearly.
"Acap spoke like this in front of him, of course, not to humiliate himself, but to induce an alliance. In the past two months, the Mexica people have tested it several times, and their intention to form an alliance is very strong."
Petel's mind was spinning rapidly, and the smile on his face returned to its normal state. He thought about it for a while and then said with a smile,
"The Mexica Alliance is the successor to the great empire Toltec. The Mexica people are the race of gods chosen by the gods. The holy city of Cholula has always respected the will of the gods, and it has long been a brotherly family with the Alliance. Toltec We all know the same lineage, why say anything more..."
Having said this, Petel changed the subject and returned to the divine smoke again.
"Elder Akap, although the sacred smoke in the Holy Land is good, the holy water in the capital city in the lake is equally extraordinary and makes people forget about the world. The Mexica pharmacists are unique and famous all over the world, and the chief priest Quetzal is even more good at it! Half a year ago After hearing the news of his death, I regretted it for several days. I wonder when I can taste holy water again and feel the gift of God?"
Akap thought for a moment and sighed in his heart. The leaders of Cholula are very friendly to the Alliance, but they have always been unwilling to form a formal alliance with the Alliance. This time the test was fruitless. There was always a smile on his gentle and jade-like face, and he still spoke gently.
"Although the chief priest has returned to the kingdom of God, the inheritance of pharmacy has not been lost. This trip is in a hurry...I have sent envoys to bring them the latest holy water. When the time comes, all the elders will be invited to feel the grace of God."
Petel nodded in approval, really looking forward to it. He continued to expand the topic.
"That's great! I heard that the Great Alliance is reforming religion, increasing the number of priests, and participating in the management of noble fiefdoms. The Twelve Priests formulate religious laws and manage the world on behalf of the gods?"
Akapu's mind turned and he understood immediately. He admitted with a smile.
"It is indeed true. His Highness the Alliance received divine enlightenment, and the benevolent gods gave detailed words. The Alliance received the sacred will to spread the glory of God throughout the world and spread it to everyone's heart!"
Peter frowned slightly. He is naturally wary of new writing.
However, outside the holy city of Cholula, there are Tlaxcala nobles of all sizes, who actually control the entire state of Cholula. Although the priests are sacred, their power is limited to the holy city, and they have been planning to expand outward for a long time.
The priest leader then laughed.
"Very good! What Elder Akapu said makes sense. Priests participating in the management of noble fiefdoms and educating the people are responsibilities given by the gods. Please tell me in detail!"
Akap nodded and spoke with a smile.
"The states of Tlaxcala should indeed respect the will of the Holy City... In this crusade against the believers of the alien gods, the people of Tlaxcala are accepting divine punishment... The Alliance will always support the Holy City of Cholula... The new priesthood is divided into five levels, and the priest leaders from various places guard one side... The priests and elders of the holy city should naturally be in high positions, and the priesthood is equivalent to the twelve priests..."
In the magnificent temple, the sacred smoke was lit again. The messengers of the gods laughed and talked about the rise and fall of the world.
In the lonely mountain camp, a blazing bonfire was lit. "Black Wolf" Toltec stood on the top of the tall wooden castle, watching the training of the longbow militia.
Taking the tribe as a unit, dozens of long-bowed militiamen advanced to attack together, dispersed and turned like the wind, stood still and fired like rain. Although the formation of the marching militiamen is ugly, they already have the flexibility of a wolf pack, and can roughly execute the commander's military orders and adjust their tactics independently. In constant movement, the tribal hunters still maintain a certain degree of organization, just like a pack of wolves hunting collectively.
After a break in training, Toltec called the tribe leader and rebuked loudly, pointing out the shortcomings of the tactics. His expression was fierce and his voice was like thunder. The leaders were frightened, bowed their heads and accepted orders, and scattered around to practice. The "Black Wolf" commander then turned around and headed towards the tent with a hidden smile of satisfaction. After a while, the majestic commander entered the big tent and took out a brand new paper book. His face fell. It was time to read and write again.
In the new camp in the north of the capital, hundreds of spear militiamen let out loud shouts, and under the leadership of the squad leader, they conducted a real formation confrontation. The militiamen in the front row were holding wooden spears without spearheads, and they tried their best to stab the opposite side and hit the thin rattan. The militiamen in the back row pushed the shields, trying to make the formation tight and pushing the phalanx forward. The two phalanxes fought against each other until one side gradually became scattered, was squeezed and collapsed, and completely lost its formation.
"Monkey" Kuruka then blew the conch horn to indicate that the winner was determined. He smiled slightly, patted the captains of both teams on the shoulders affectionately, and sincerely praised Guzman, who won. Afterwards, the new army commander looked solemn and summoned the commanders of each army to explain the problems that had arisen between the two teams and mentioned the training that needed to be strengthened. From time to time, he would turn around and ask his adjutant Ezpin for his opinion.
Tarasco's surrendered general looked respectful and made detailed suggestions for improvement. The new regiment commander was very approachable, quickly got along with the militiamen, and respected the adjutant very much. He promoted many outstanding backbones, and gold miner Guzman was one of them. The closer the legion commander appeared, the less Ezpan dared to look down on him. Because unknowingly, the legion has been firmly controlled by the opponent.
Whenever night falls, Kuruca will always bring a pen and paper, go to the adjutant's barracks, and carefully consult the tactics of the spear phalanx. Although he looks as clumsy as an ape, his mind is extremely intelligent, his thinking is unfettered, and he can learn new tactics very quickly. A few days later, Ezpin was convinced.
Soon, the confrontation training between the two spear phalanxes began again. Numerous other phalanxes were deployed in simulated marches around the center of the battlefield. Seeing the spear formation that was initially effective, "Monkey" Kuruka finally nodded with satisfaction and began to think about more complex tactics.
"I have wasted half my life, and the road has been full of twists and turns. Now, I finally lead an army alone, and a broad and smooth road lies in front of me. I must not let down His Highness's high expectations!"
Not far away, Ezpan looked at the standing legion commander and then at the spear phalanx that was beginning to take shape. His eyes were envious and he felt the same. After a while, he turned around and looked at Lake Texcoco to the south. On the sparkling lake, a continuous stream of boats never stopped, constantly transporting food and supplies from the lake area, and also brought the latest war situation.
Beside the long bridge of Baishi, legion commander Annatri waved a three-meter spear flag, and the vast navy fleet slowly set sail, heading north along the river. The fleet carried three thousand elite direct warriors, warehouses full of dry military grain, and special weapons sealed in wooden boxes and wrapped in waterproof tarps.
Te Luo has high eyebrows and a kind smile. He stood behind Annatri, carefully looking at the heroic appearance of the female warrior, thinking about the importance of the navy to the fief, and silently calculating in his heart.
Anatri finished commanding, and she felt something about the warrior's keenness. She turned around suddenly and raised her brows when she saw Turro's wanton gaze.
"Tello, the 'Destroyer' of Tlatelolco, you insist on boarding my flagship and say you have important matters to discuss. Judging from your expression now, do you want to compete with me on this so-called important matter? ?"
Upon hearing this unceremonious question, Te Luo's expression froze and his heart became angry. As a battle-hardened commander, he was also a brave warrior when he was young, and he was as confident as anyone else. Later, he inherited the honorable position of the glorious nobleman, was carefully served around him, and was always respected by others. Except for the king, no one dared to speak to him in this tone for a long time.
Turro was only dissatisfied for a moment before he remembered the purpose of his trip, so he puffed up his chest and smiled boldly. Following traditional customs, he slapped his thick chest with his thick right arm, showing off his strong body.
"'Source of Water' Annatri, I heard that you have never been married, and my wife has passed away for several years. Now, the majestic mountains have no rivers, and the spacious houses lack mistresses. The tall corns are not entangled with beans, and the strong My body needs comfort! In the presence of Xochiktesar, the god of love, I declare my pursuit of you and make you a component of my palace!"
Annatri stared and raised his eyebrows.
"You have to prove your martial arts skills first before I will allow you to pursue! Whether the mountains are majestic is not just a matter of words. Whether the corn is strong is not just about appearance. Are you a ferocious roaring jaguar, or are you shaking your head? The hyena is barking wildly, so let us see the truth on our hands!"
Te Luo's face darkened. His heart suddenly turned. The navy commander had always been hereditary and relatively independent. Conquering Anatri indirectly controls the naval force, and mastering the naval force can gain the initiative on the river. Having said this, as a famous warrior, he has no reason to back down. After thinking for a moment, he confidently took out his war stick and smiled fiercely.
"Okay! Anatri, under the witness of the gods, let us compete here! According to traditional customs, the winner will take away the most precious treasure that can be found from the loser!"
Anatri did not hesitate, and stamped the spear in his hand on the ship, making a loud bang. She laughed loudly, the sound was like a resounding silver bell.
"Yes, this is what the samurai did. Witness the gods, let us start now!"
After speaking, Anatli shook his head and glanced sideways at Turro. Then, she made a gesture to indicate to the other party to take action first.
Seeing this action, Te Luo's anger returned, and the desire to fight burned in his chest. Years of combat experience allowed him to maintain caution and composure in his movements. He raised the shield in his left hand to protect the vital parts of his body. He pointed the battle stick in his right hand diagonally, making a hand gesture that could easily exert force, and then quickly approached.
Anatli's eyes were like a hawk, holding the spear in both hands and holding it horizontally in front of him. Her knees sank slightly, the spear shaft was retracted behind her, and the spear head pointed toward the opposite side, ready to strike at any time.
On the slightly swaying boat, Teluo took small steps and approached the female warrior. He lunged forward suddenly, raised the shield in his left hand, and hit the opponent's head while blocking the trajectory of the spear. Then, he leaned down and swung his right war stick low, hitting the opponent's waist. This is an extremely skilled combination of stick and shield. When the two hands strike together, they are powerful and heavy, without any confusion!
The attacks from above and below came at the same time. Anatli's eyes lit up, he let out a clear sound, and then quickly retreated back. She was like a fish swimming in the water, sensing the attacking current and avoiding shield attacks with incredible skill. Then, she quickly moved sideways to the right, like a swift in the wind, following the oncoming wind, avoiding the stick blows with agility and agility.
One step forward, one step back, one turn and one move, everything happens in an instant. Turro's swing missed, and he was shocked. He quickly retreated and covered the middle door with his shield.
The female warrior never paused and her movements were smooth and fluid. She suddenly shouted angrily, strode forward, first with a stab that had been prepared for a long time, and accurately pierced Turro's helmet, breaking through half of it just right. Then, she pressed the spear shaft and lifted it hard, and the helmet flew up and fell into the lake.
Turro felt a pain in his forehead, and then a cold feeling on his head. If it was a battlefield, he would be dead by now. His eyes turned red, and he was about to raise his shield and swing his stick again, but he received a heavy blow on the top of his head, which made him dizzy.
With one move, the helmet flew off, Anatri pressed the spear again, and hit the opponent's head with the spear shaft. Then, she quickly stepped forward, walking on flat ground on the rocking boat, and got closer to about one meter. Finally, the female warrior roared angrily again, taking advantage of Te Luo's dazed moment, she turned sideways and kicked her hind leg horizontally, suddenly hitting the opponent's shield.
The boat shook violently, and Te Luo lost his balance in a trance. But in an instant, there was an angry shout in his ear, and an irresistible force came from the shield, kicking his body back two meters. The noble noble instantly lost his footing and fell into the water with a splash. The brackish rainy season lake water continuously penetrated from his nose and mouth, completely wetting his hair and armor.
The noble noble finally woke up. He shouted loudly and paddled hard. A circle of small boats around them quickly came up to meet them. But the coach's boat sailed away, far away in a moment.
Annatri stood on the bow of the boat and proudly carried the spear behind her back. The lake breeze blew her long hair, and she looked up to the sky and smiled, leaving behind a powerful sentence.
"Only those who can defeat me are mountains worthy of running water!"
Then, with a swipe of her spear, she scolded the guards and sailors who looked in awe.
"Hand out the flag and speed up the march! Next, go to Lake Haltokan to meet the warrior army of Teotihuacan!"
