In the meanwhile, the Aztec island is struggling under the Tepanec domination, desperate to gain a measure of independence. There is more to life than what he has been taught, growing up in the noble family of a powerful city.Īs the days pass and the journey continues, and the troubles and dilemmas escalate, he is forced to learn a few new lessons, and in a hard way. Nothing is simple and clear, learns Tecpatl.

However, when they encounter the first attacked village, it all changes. Slugging through desert, guarding a bunch of lower class traders seemed to be the worst way of spending his time, while slowing down his budding career. On the contrary, to his private estimation this whole expedition is an effrontery to his upbringing, belittling of his talents and skills. And yet, he himself do not see the importance of his mission. Tecpatl is one such man, a young promising nobleman, a talented warrior with much ambition and aspiration, a perfect choice. It is a truly long way, and not a safe one, so guarding warriors would be usually sent to protect the traders delegation, to keep it safe.

Pochteca, the elite long-distance traders, are traveling far and wide, reaching as far as today’s Southwest and the lands ofĪnasazi, the ancient Pueblo People. It’s mid 14th century and the Tepanecs are growing as a regional power, expanding through military as much as through a dynamic trading net.

Beyond the Great River by Zoe Saadia