The King's Western Tour: Tepalcatepec and Olive Lake, Precious Specialties

In late February, the wind gradually warmed, and flocks of birds flew north. Black Wolf's Royal Banner moved once more, traveling forty li north from Kan River Village and arriving at Tepalcatepec.

In the local tongue, this place was "Tepalcaltepec," meaning a place rich in clay pots. Tepalcatepec had a population of over a thousand. It had originally been the territory of a hereditary noble from the south, but now it had been brought directly under the kingdom's control. And northwest of Tepalcatepec lay the rippling olive lake, where both the Kan River and the Tao River had their source before flowing east and west respectively.

Xolotl stopped in Tepalcatepec for two days. He summoned the local leader of the potters and, with great interest, examined some of the painted pottery produced here.

In the half-open shed, all kinds of colorful pottery for daily use were piled up, including clay pots, basins, jars, kettles, bowls, and cups. Most of the painted pottery was common red pottery, mixed with some gray pottery. These wares were plain in form and rough in style, unable to compare with the splendid painted pottery of the Royal Capital, but they had the virtue of being sturdy and durable.

"Mm. This clay pot—how much?"

The personal guards were on strict alert, forming a circle around the outside of the shed. Xolotl picked up a red clay pot with natural-looking patterns and asked the potters' leader before him gently.

".Ah, Your Majesty, this clay pot, a gift... a gift for you. No money!"

The potters' leader was extremely cautious. He glanced at the armored warriors around him, then at the armored king, and stammered as he spoke.

Hearing this, Xolotl smiled. He looked toward Bertad, and the Captain of Warriors took out a bag of cacao beans