Volume 1 - The Heir of Dorado
The Hunt Begins
The dense canopy of the jungle swayed with the symphony of nature. Leaves rustling, creatures stirring in the underbrush, birds fluttering and flying around the trees, but Necalli was silent. He was crouched, obscured by foliage and gripping his short spear tightly in his hand. Slowly, purposefully, he drew his weapon back, raising his other arm forward to guide his throw. His eyes traced the outline of his prey, a tapir, oblivious to his presence as it foraged among the low hanging branches.
Just as Necalli steadied his breath and prepared to strike, there was a sudden crack, a twig snapping somewhere behind him. The tapir's ears perked up, its head jerking toward the sound. Necalli’s eyes widened.
"No..."
Before he could react, his friend, Tepe, burst through the bushes, waving wildly.
"Necalli! Wait, I-"
The tapir bolted, crashing through the jungle with surprising speed for its size. Necalli groaned under his breath and shot a glare at Tepe, who stood frozen, hands raised in a sheepish attempt to apologize.
"You're supposed to warn me before you charge in! I almost had it there!" Necalli hissed, already sprinting after the fleeing animal.
Tepe, laughing nervously, took off behind him.
"I thought I did!"
The two of them tore through the jungle, branches whipping at their faces and mud splashing beneath their feet. The tapir, now spooked, darted between trees and thick foliage, forcing Necalli and Tepe to abandon any attempt at stealth.
"How is it this fast?" Tepe shouted between breaths, stumbling over a root as he tried to keep up. "It's like it
knows we’re terrible at this!"
"It definitely knows how bad you are at this, it and the whole of Dorado!" Shouted back Necalli, letting out a small laugh in between panting as he sprinted. "Maybe if someone didn't trip on every branch in the jungle, we'd have caught it by now!"
The chase carried on, with Necalli and Tepe crashing through the greenery, each misstep becoming more ridiculous than the last. Necalli's spear arm had long since been lowered, this wasn’t a hunt anymore, it was a race, and a losing one at that.
Finally, they skidded to a halt at the edge of a ravine. The tapir had managed to slip away into the underbrush on the other side, its snorts of triumph faintly audible through the trees.
Panting, Tepe doubled over, hands on his knees.
"Well...that was...graceful."
Necalli, shaking his head, leaned against a tree, catching his breath.
"Next time, Tepe, just watch where you put your feet." They both laughed, with Necalli giving Tepe a playful slap on the back.
"Think we have time for another hunt?"
"Nah, I'm already on thin ice with my dad, I wasn't strictly supposed to leave the city today after last week."
Necalli leaned back against the tree, still catching his breath as the two let out another giggle, when a voice called out from the shadows of the jungle.
"Thin ice, huh? That's an understatement. I think the tapir will be the least of your problems when we get back."
Necalli jumped slightly, startled by the sudden appearance of his older brother, Itzcóatl, standing with his arms crossed, a wry smile tugging at his normally stoic face. His tall, imposing figure was partially hidden by the dense foliage, but his presence was unmistakable. He stepped out into the clearing, shaking his head as he surveyed the scene. He was dressed in the sleek, modernized attire of Dorado's warrior elite; a sleeveless tunic made from a dark, shimmering material that hugged his muscular frame, its intricate geometric patterns woven with thread that glinted like silver in the light. Around his waist was a belt holding ceremonial decorations, subtle but undeniably regal. His pants, embroidered with vibrant red and gold symbols of Huitzilopochtli, tapered into sturdy sandals. Around his neck hung a necklace with a pendant displaying his namesake made from obsidian displaying an intricate pattern of intertwined serpents.
"How long have you been watching us?" Necalli asked, straightening up and narrowing his eyes in suspicion.
"Long enough to see you both lose a perfectly good meal," Itzcóatl replied, gesturing towards the direction where the tapir had disappeared. "I’ll be sure to let Father know how graceful the prince is at hunting these days."
Necalli winced, knowing full well that his father was already displeased with him for reasons far more personal than a missed hunt. "Come on, Itzcóatl, don’t make it worse than it is. You know how he gets."
Itzcóatl raised an eyebrow. "Oh, believe me, I know. He’s already upset about...well, certain
rumors." He smirked, and Necalli blushed slightly.
Tepe, ever the awkward friend, tried to help. "We were just having some fun! It’s not like anyone’s keeping score, right? What's one failed hunt among friends!"
Itzcóatl chuckled softly, his serious demeanor momentarily softening. "Oh, I'm definitely keeping score. Or at least trying to, I think I lost count at maybe the 73rd animal you lost?" He grinned, Necalli rolled his eyes. "You being caught with that girl didn’t exactly earn you any favor either. He sent me to find you because you’ve already been gone longer than you were supposed to."
Necalli groaned, rubbing his face with his hands. "Of course he did."
Tepe, forgetting the trouble Necalli was in, reacted with a shocked expression, almost turning his entire body to face his friend as he spoke. "Wait a minute, Necalli. You were caught with a girl? You didn’t tell me! Who is she?"
Necalli shot Tepe a warning look. "It's not like that, Tepe."
Tepe's eyes widened, his tone teasing. "What? Not like that? Come on, man! You’ve gotta tell me everything! How did I not hear about this?!" Necalli responded with a look that could kill.
Itzcóatl patted him on the shoulder, his brotherly side showing through despite his teasing. "Don't worry, little brother. If anyone can charm their way back into Father's good graces, it's you. But maybe you should cool it on the whole 'getting caught in bed' thing, yeah? It doesn't exactly reflect well on father to have his heir fathering a child before he even wears the crown."
Necalli felt a knot tighten in his stomach at his brother's words. It was a truth they both understood but rarely discussed: Itzcóatl, despite his strength and skill, would never wear the crown. He loved Itzcóatl fiercely, not just as his brother but as the one who had always stood by him. The thought of him being unable to fulfill his rightful place as king, not due to a lack of ability but because of circumstances beyond his control, stung. Necalli never felt like he should have been the heir, if he could have been the bastard and let Itzcóatl be the next in line he'd have done it in a heartbeat. Still, he admired his brother for having the grace to joke about it, and for always being there for him.
Necalli grinned sheepishly. "I'll try my best."
"Let’s just hope your 'best' is enough this time." Itzcóatl replied. "And maybe next time, try to keep your activities to a more...discreet location."
Tepe nodded vigorously, eager to add his two cents. "Yeah, man! What's the fun in getting caught? That's like, the opposite of being smooth!"
Necalli let out a groan, shaking his head. "Trust me, I’m aware." His frown turned to a smile as he playfully punched Tepe's arm. "Plus, if anyone knows what the 'opposite of being smooth' is, it's definitely you, Tepe."
Tepe looked back at him, mouth agape as he rubbed his arm.
"I'm smooth! I'm totally smooth! I'm as smooth as pulque brother!"
With that, Itzcóatl turned and motioned for them to follow. "Come on, you two. We should head back before Father sends a search party into the jungle."
As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a golden hue across the dense jungle, Itzcóatl led his younger brother and his friend through the thick underbrush. The atmosphere was alive with the sounds of chirping insects and rustling leaves, but their movements were careful and deliberate. One wrong turn and you'd be face to face with a panther in this maze. Necalli's heart raced in anxiety, knowing they were nearing the secret entrance to their home, inching ever closer to the wrath of his father.
They arrived at a moss covered rock face that seemed indistinguishable from the rest of the jungle. Itzcóatl stepped forward, pushing aside the thick vines and foliage that concealed the entrance. A narrow opening yawned before them, leading into the darkness of a hidden cave.
"Almost home." Itzcóatl said as he ducked inside. The cool air greeted them, filled with the earthy scent of damp stone.
Inside, the cave twisted and turned, the walls glistening with moisture. As they ventured deeper, the cave was dimly lit by patches of bioluminescent fungi clinging to the rock, illuminating their path with a soft, ethereal glow. The faint sound of dripping water echoed in the background as they exited the passage into a grand cavern adorned with intricate carvings and shimmering crystals embedded in the walls. The vibrant patterns depicted tales of bravery, love, and sacrifice, stories that defined the history that Necalli was due to continue.
At the far end of the chamber, a heavy stone door blended seamlessly with the cave's walls. Itzcóatl approached, pressing a sequence of symbols hidden within the intricate carvings on the walls. With a rumble, the door slid open, revealing a blinding light beyond. They stepped through the threshold, momentarily shielding their eyes from the brightness.
As their vision adjusted, they found themselves standing at the edge of their home, Dorado. Towering, brightly colored buildings rose around them, adorned with intricate patterns and reliefs that celebrated their culture. Huge trees intertwined with sky bridges and buildings, seemlessly blending the nature within the jungle and the advanced technology of the hidden city. The air was filled with the sounds of laughter, chatter, and the hum of technology, a stark contrast to the silence of the cave.
They stepped further through the entrance and Necalli turned his head upwards and traced the huge dome shield that enveloped and concealed his home. The shimmering barrier pulsed with energy in vibrant purple hues. It had been built centuries ago, and improved on continously since then. Never had it been penetrated and very rarely had they even came close to being discovered. Vibranium was a hell of a thing. It was entirely invisible from the outside, looking only like an impenetrable wall of trees.
"Welcome back, princes!" a guard called out, standing tall in his ornate armor, the insignia of Huitzilopochtli proudly displayed. His tone was respectful, with an undercurrent of familiarity.
"Thanks, Xipil" Itzcóatl replied, giving a nod as he moved ahead. The two had known Xipil since they were little boys. He'd suffered a nasty leg injury early in his career that prevented him from being a more active member of the Dorado guard, but still stood proudly at the gate, ready to catch any invaders as they entered, or any mischevious princes as they exited.
"A little heads up lads, your father's not in the best mood" Xipil added with a chuckle. "I'd steer clear of him for a while if I were you."
Necalli grimaced. "I wish I could" he muttered, knowing all too well that avoiding his father was nearly impossible.
They walked through the bustling streets glancing at the various people; merchants peddling vibrant fabrics, artisans crafting intricate jewelry, and children laughing as they played in the plaza. The scent of spices wafted through the air, mingling with the sound of music drifting from a nearby celebration.
"Man, I really hope we don’t get into trouble." Tepe said, glancing around nervously. "I'd rather not face your dad right now."
Necalli chuckled nervously. "You think I want to? The most you'll get from him is told off for leaving the city without permission. He’s probably already written up his next big lecture about my 'responsibilities.'" He stopped for a moment, weighing up what he was about to say next before he did. "You know, sometimes I wish I could just blend in like everyone else." He sighed. "No responsibilites, no royal drama, no eyes on me every time I take a step-"
"No class, no brain, no idea what you're doing." Interjected his older brother with a grin. "None of that and none of the good food at the royal feasts. I'll take the royal drama for that at least."
As they approached the grand entrance to the palace, the imposing structure loomed above them, a testament to the rich history and power of their lineage. The palace's façade was adorned with intricate carvings of their gods and ancestors, shimmering in the fading light. Large, ornate doors of polished obsidian stood at the front, flanked by guards in ceremonial attire, their spears resting against the ground as they stood at attention. One of the guards nodded at Necalli and Itzcóatl.
"Your father is expecting you, my lords." he said his voice tinged with sympathy. As they entered the guard placed a firm hand on Tepe's shoulder. "Not you I'm afraid, Huey Tlatoani Moquihuix has already spoken to your parents, Tepe. I'd hurry home now if I were you."
Necalli caught Tepe's expression as he stepped further into the palace. He looked like he'd seen several thousand ghosts all at once.
They passed through the grand hall on the way to see their father. It was lit by torches and golden light fixtures embedded in the walls. The marble floor was inlaid with gold, and at the far end sat the throne, carved from a single massive piece of jade. It was empty, far too late in the day for their father to be present here. He'd be in the council room no doubt. Necalli's eyes locked onto the throne, almost like they were drawn to it. He'd sit there one day, and he hoped it wasn't anytime soon.
They rose up a large winding staircase and opened the door to the council room. Inside, the room was illuminated by natural light pouring in from high windows. His father, the king, sat at the head of the long table, flanked by advisors. He looked up, his expression shifting from a mixture of weariness and stern authority to surprise at the sight of them.
Necalli approached, head slightly bowed, with Itzcóatl flanking him. "Father, I—"
His father raised a hand, silencing him. "You disobeyed me again, Necalli." His voice was calm, but the weight behind his words was unmistakable. "You left the city without permission, despite the warnings I’ve given you." He rose from his seat and waved off his advisors. Most of whom took a quick look at Necalli before quietly gathering their paperwork and scurrying off out of the door.
Necalli felt the weight of his father’s gaze, a mixture of disappointment and worry that made his stomach churn. "I know, Father. But it was such a nice day and I just got this new bow I thought I-"
He was cut off again. His father's voice becoming harsher, and more direct.
"No, Necalli, you didn't think. It seems you think less and less these days." He rounded the table, approaching his sons. He was a man of impressive stature, his long, silver streaked hair tied back, and his face etched with lines that spoke of both wisdom and the heavy burden of leadership. He wore a regal robe adorned with vibrant colors and patterns that represented the gods of war and wisdom. His eyes, dark and intense, were fixed on Necalli. "This isn't about a simple hunt. It’s about your recklessness. You are my heir. You cannot continue acting as though the weight of this city does not rest on your shoulders."
Necalli's heart sank further. He knew the lecture was coming, and there was little he could say to stop it. He made the mistake of showing this in his expression.
"You think this is a game?" His father's voice grew even stricter, his gaze flicking between his sons. "While you play in the jungle, there are threats out there, threats you've never faced, dangers you can't even comprehend. One day, you will sit on this throne, Necalli, and if you're not prepared, everything our ancestors built will crumble."
Necalli clenched his fists. "I'm trying, Father. I'm just—"
"Itzcóatl was always ready" Moquihuix interrupted, his gaze softening briefly as it shifted to Necalli’s brother. "He understands what it means to lead. You need to learn from him, or Dorado will fall under your rule."
The words stung, more than Necalli would ever admit. He glanced at his brother, who stood silently, not meeting his gaze.
"I'll do better" Necalli said quietly, his voice barely above a whisper.
His father regarded him for a long moment before finally nodding. "See that you do." He rose from his throne, the weight of his presence filling the room. "Go. Reflect on what I’ve said. We will speak more of this soon."
Without another word, Moquihuix turned and walked toward a side door, his robe trailing behind him, leaving Necalli and Itzcóatl standing in the vast, silent hall with his thoughts swirling. His older brother placed a friendly hand on his shoulder once his father was out of earshot.
"You know he doesn't mean all that, Necalli. He loves you, he just wants to make sure you'll be ready for when it's time to take his place."
Necalli stood in silence, his eyes fixed on the floor. He sighed heavily, his voice still quiet. "I don't know if I'm cut out for this, Itzcóatl. Being king...it's just so much. The responsibility, the pressure... I feel like everyone's watching me, waiting for me to be perfect. I just want to be normal sometimes, live without all these expectations. But I can't."
Itzcóatl listened quietly, his hand still resting on Necalli’s shoulder. Necalli continued, his voice shaky. "What if I can't handle it? What if I’m not strong enough to lead Dorado the way father does? Everyone expects me to be this great leader, but all I can think about is how easy it would be to mess it all up. I never asked for this."
Itzcóatl took his hand off Necalli's shoulder and slid it into his pocket. Taking a moment to choose the right words.
"Necalli, the truth is no one ever feels ready for this. Not even Father. The crown isn't something you just grow into overnight. It's a process, one that'll take time, and mistakes. You're not supposed to have it all figured out already."
Necalli frowned. "But it feels like I should, like everyone's expecting me to be this perfect version of what a king should be. And the more I think about it, the more I just want to be normal. To live without the constant pressure. Sometimes I think you're the one who should be heir. You seem...better at this."
Itzcóatl chuckled softly, shaking his head. "I've had my share of screw-ups too, trust me. Father might push you harder, but that’s because he sees what you’re capable of, even if you don’t see it yet. It's not about being perfect, it's about learning from every failure, every challenge. And when it's time, you'll lead in your own way. You won't be Father, and that's okay. You're Necalli, and that's who Dorado will need."
Necalli felt some small weight lift off his shoulders. That insecurity still held within his heart, but knowing he had his brother there to support him made everything feel a lot less scary. A smile crept up on his face.
"I guess you're right, I just wish the old man would stop hounding me about it. These lectures feel like they get longer every time!"
Itzcóatl let out a laugh. "Just be thankful you've not got Tepe's parents, remember the last time you two got into trouble? They had him shovelling manure for a week!"
Necalli laughed along with him. "When you put it that way maybe the lectures aren't so bad!"
Itzcóatl smiled, stepping back toward the door. "Come on, let’s get out of here before father changes his mind and decides to give you a similar punishment. We can at least enjoy the night before tomorrow brings another crisis."
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