Halach Uinic stood at the edge of Chichen Itza's bustling marketplace, marveling at the transformation of his life and the city that now felt like home. Just a year ago, he was a garbage collector in the crowded streets of a Gracean suburb, surviving on scraps and dreaming of something better. But in Ikal, a twist of fate and the vision of the third prince, Yaxkin Balam, had rewritten his story.
Halach's talent for telekinesis had been dormant in Gracea. He hadn't even known it existed, hidden beneath years of toil and poverty. But when Yaxkin's piercing gaze fell upon him during a city-wide talent search, his life took an unexpected turn.
"You have potential," the prince had said, his voice firm yet kind.
"With the right guidance, you could do great things."
Now, Halach was part of Yaxkin's secret guard, tasked with monitoring the city for suspicious activities. It was a role he embraced with pride, knowing that his efforts helped maintain peace in Chichen Itza.
The training was grueling, but Halach found it invigorating. Each day, he refined his abilities, lifting objects with precision and strengthening his control over Ch'ulel. For the first time, he felt like his life had meaning.
As he patrolled the marketplace, Halach observed the preparations for the upcoming Panquetzaliztli festival. The first anniversary of their arrival in Ikal had the entire city brimming with excitement. Vibrant banners adorned every corner, and the aroma of freshly prepared food wafted through the air.
The market stalls were overflowing with goods: textiles dyed in deep reds and golds, hand-carved figurines, and bundles of a corn-like plant that had become a staple in Ikal.
"Halach, over here!"
Called a merchant, a woman in her fifties who sold steaming tamales wrapped in green leaves.
"Try this batch. Perfect for the festival, no?"
He accepted the offering with a grin.
"Delicious, señora!!!!"
"I'll take two for the road"
He handed over a few coins (Coins distributed first to all Yaxkin workers but will be put into circulation starting on the first of next year), grateful for the camaraderie that had blossomed among the citizens.
Halach's thoughts often drifted to his younger sister, Chel, who remained in Gracea. At just eleven years old, she wasn't yet old enough to enter Ikal, as the world's age restriction required participants to be at least nineteen.
He missed her fiercely but was determined to build a better future for her. The salary he earned in Ikal allowed him to save enough to ensure she wouldn't have to struggle as he had.
"She'll be the first in our family to finish school."
He told a fellow guard during their rounds.
"That's my goal."
"No more sacrificing dreams just to survive."
His companion, a broad-shouldered man named Xok, clapped him on the back.
"You're a good brother, Halach. And when she gets here, she'll see what a difference you've made."
The first city of Chichen Itza was a marvel of design, blending the architectural grandeur of Gracea's ancient traditions with the practicality demanded by Ikal's challenges. At its center stood the grand plaza, where a newly completed auction house gleamed under the sun.
This building, crafted from polished stone and adorned with intricate carvings of jaguars and eagles, symbolized the city's burgeoning economy.
The auction house was a hub of activity, with merchants and adventurers bringing rare finds from across Ikal. Today, Halach watched as traders displayed glittering gems, strange plants, and pieces of armor crafted from newly discovered metals.
"The city's thriving."
He remarked to Xok as they passed a group of merchants haggling over a bundle of glowing herbs.
"A year ago, we were just building walls. Now, look at us."
Xok nodded.
"It's because of people like you, Halach."
"Everyone here wants to make this place a home."
As the day wore on, Halach joined other guards in overseeing the preparations for Panquetzaliztli. Tables were set up across the plaza, piled high with dishes made from the corn-like plant they'd named mahiz.
Stews simmered in large clay pots, and cakes sweetened with a honey-like syrup were being arranged in intricate patterns.
The young people ran through the streets, laughing and playing, while musicians rehearsed melodies on hand carved instruments. The energy in the city was electric, filled with hope and unity.
Halach paused near a group of artisans who were painting a mural depicting the city's first year in Ikal. "Beautiful work," he said, admiring the vibrant colors and detailed figures.
"Thank you."
One of the painters replied.
"This is our way of honoring everything we've built together."
As night fell and the city prepared for the festival, Halach found himself reflecting on the past year. Meeting Yaxkin had been a turning point, a chance to rewrite his life and secure a future for his sister. He glanced at the glowing lights of the city and felt a swell of pride.
"This is just the beginning."
He murmured, his gaze fixed on the horizon.
"For all of us."