Feast, Prayer, and a Lakeside Village

"Come, come, come—the honorable His Highness has spoken. Everyone, return to your seats and sit comfortably. Keep drinking!"

Izel, the mountain clan chief of the Glory Family, changed back into a smiling face and called out his instructions.

"Bring the Huastec dancing girls over. Have them dance something alluring. Keep the music playing, keep the dancing going!"

Very soon, the soft and charming Huastec girls came to the center of the banquet, wearing shells that barely covered their bodies. They happily stretched their waists, lightly rose onto their toes, and began a Cat Dance that set imaginations wandering.

The atmosphere in the hall became merry and harmonious once more. The western nobles watched the dance while laughing, chatting, and drinking, as if nothing had happened at all. From time to time, someone came forward to toast the king, offer a few words of congratulations, and then naturally withdraw.

"The Main God blesses the alliance, and the king shines over the four directions! The honorable King Avet has already sent envoys to every state, summoning the nobles to the capital for an audience and to take part in the celebration. Your Highness, your wedding not long from now will become a grand occasion that brings glory to the alliance!"

Izel raised his cup, lowered his head in salute, and then drained it in one gulp.

"To His Highness!"

Hearing this, Xolotl nodded slightly. A smile appeared on his face, while his heart was filled with anticipation. He raised his cup, smiling as he drank the remaining wine in it, but then his expression turned solemn.

"Izel, congratulations to you as well! Since we parted on the Western Expedition, your courage in battle has remained unforgettable to me. Now that we meet again, your face has become clear, and your eyes are