Chapter Two Hundred and Thirteen: Duel

Wisps of blue smoke rose, carrying the Priest's song to the deities above. Xiulote stood silently under the banner of the deities, gazing up at the sky. After a long moment, he responded slowly but firmly.

"Bertade, you're right. I cannot accept Su'angua's surrender."

Xiulote's eyes briefly lowered; when he opened them again, they were ablaze with the flames of war.

"The Tarasco Royal Family cannot be spared! This is not only the will of the elders but also a necessity for ruling over the lands of the lake. The Mexica Alliance does not seek nominal submission from the Tarascans but direct control over each conquered City-State, to truly put down roots in this fertile land."