Leaves of Immortality
an excerpt

“It’s time my son. It’s time for you to leave here and prove yourself. This is a great honour, and it may be that it will be you who restore us to our lost greatness.”

Tochtli knew it was an honour to be Raised by the Winged Serpent himself. He knew it was an honour to be Raised at all. But the words seemed like formula. He wasn’t sure Quetzalcoatl believed them himself. They were wooden and emotionless. Nevertheless, he listened dutifully.

“I give you the sacred weapons--”

Like all the other ones given to the many who had never returned, thought Tochtli.

“--and my blessing--”

With has never protected the ones before.

“--and the sacred armour--”

Also no real protection in the World Above.

“--that you may live long and return to us to raise us all up.”

It will never happen.

“Rise my son, and go. Seek me out when you return.”

Tochtli rose and headed for the pod. How long would he last? Minutes, he was sure. But it wasn’t his choice. Go he would, to his death.