With renewed energy and a sense of purpose, Yaxkin gathered a team to begin a new phase of training. After many days spent focusing on the city's growth and security, he felt the need to reconnect with the martial discipline that had shaped him.
He would not become a leader who relied solely on others for protection; his strength had to match his responsibilities.
He assembled a group of twenty warriors, including the captivating Aruma, the skilled warrior he had met on the training grounds the day before. Her sharp wit and fierce dedication had intrigued him.
She brought an element of light-heartedness to the team, a balance that kept them all grounded.
"You ready to work hard, Aruma?" Yaxkin teased, smirking slightly.
"Or are you only here because you know I'm watching?"
She scoffed, a playful gleam in her eye.
"I'm here to make sure you're keeping up, prince. Someone has to make sure you don't get rusty."
Kuk chuckled beside them, his gaze darting between the warriors.
"Looks like Aruma's going to be trouble for you, Yaxkin."
"Oh, I don't doubt it," Yaxkin replied with a grin.
"But I can handle it."
Their destination was an area just beyond the city limits where powerful beasts roamed.
It was an ideal spot for the team to test their strength and practice their techniques. Accompanied by his trusted friends Kuk and Noíl, who had recently advanced to the highest level of Professional, Yaxkin felt a renewed sense of camaraderie and purpose.
As they approached the training grounds, he explained their mission.
"This area will soon house a sustainable breeding ground for livestock. But first, we need to clear it of any threats."
"Today, it's all about practical experience think of it as a real test."
The warriors, including Aruma, nodded with determination, eager for the challenge.
"Keep your formations tight," he instructed, his voice strong and calm.
"And remember the basics of Léets. Focus on your aura let it flow naturally with your movements."
The women drew their weapons, the glint of steel catching the morning light. Aruma, with a playful smirk, glanced back at Yaxkin.
"Don't go soft on us, prince. We can handle whatever you throw our way."
With a grin, Yaxkin replied.
"That's what I like to hear."
As they began their expedition, Yaxkin observed his team with a critical eye, his power of visualization guiding him. He noticed minor adjustments that could elevate their skills and offered insights here and there.
"Aruma," he called, watching her stance.
"Shift your weight to your left foot when you strike. It'll give you a more grounded position."
She glanced back, a hint of a blush coloring her cheeks.
"I was going to do that. Just testing you."
"Oh, I'm sure you were," he laughed.
The team advanced through the terrain, encountering fierce beasts that tested their agility and resolve. Aruma and her fellow warriors engaged in fluid, practiced movements, striking with precision. Their training in Léets allowed them to harness their Chuén, focusing their aura into deadly strikes.
Yaxkin was pleased to see the impact of his guidance on their performance.
Between battles, Yaxkin settled into a meditative stance, observing his surroundings as his warriors fought. He closed his eyes, taking in the sounds of the world around him the clash of weapons, the rustling of leaves, and the distant cries of beasts.
This meditation passed down through the teachings of the ancient Aztec civilization, helped him harmonize with the cosmos.
In his mind's eye, he envisioned himself as the sacred Ceiba tree, his roots reaching into the earth, connecting the heavens and the underworld. He felt his body align with the cosmic energy, drawing strength and balance from each plane.
The skies above, governed by the divine Itzamnaaj and Oxlahuntikú, felt within reach, each layer brimming with power and mystery.
At one point, he heard faint, rhythmic sounds that seemed to echo from the depths of his mind a reminder of his purpose, grounding him in the world and the people he served. The sounds transported him into a state of profound calm, sharpening his awareness of his surroundings.
Meanwhile, his warriors were pushing themselves to their limits, sweat pouring down their faces as they fought with renewed vigor.
Aruma seemed to thrive under the pressure, wielding her sword with a skill that hinted at greatness.
Watching her, Yaxkin called out.
"Aruma, focus on channeling your aura into your strikes. Feel the power flow through you like the roots of a tree."
She nodded, her gaze fierce. "Understood prince."
As she adjusted her stance, Yaxkin's friend Noíl approached him, wiping sweat from her brow.
"These women are relentless."
"They'll match the Jaguar Warriors soon enough."
"Speaking of Jaguars."
Yaxkin replied.
"I hope they're keeping pace. General Tenoch has been working them hard since I left. He took command with a strict regimen."
Kuk chuckled.
"Knowing Tenoch, he's whipping them into shape as we speak. But I think the women here could give them a run for their money."
Aruma overheard and laughed.
"Oh, we're ready to show them who's superior any day."
"Careful now," Yaxkin teased.
"You don't want to start a war of pride with the Jaguars. They're not known for backing down."
The team shared a laugh, and Yaxkin found himself enjoying the easy camaraderie, a reminder of his youthful days, carefree and full of potential.
As the day ended, Yaxkin gathered the warriors around him, commending them for their strength and resilience.
"You've done well today. I'm proud to see how far you've come."
Aruma stepped forward, a mischievous glint in her eye.
"So, does that mean we get to celebrate, Prince?"
Yaxkin smirked, nodding.
"I suppose you've earned it. But only if you can keep up with me!"
The team cheered, their spirits high, grateful for the adventure and the opportunity to learn under their leader's watchful eye.