Now they could see the outskirts of the city in the shimmering distance. The glimmer of gold was enough to make the players shade their eyes as they continued on towards the imposing structure that formed the central temple.

Tlaxconqua, while still favouring his niggled back, was able to keep up with the team as they watchfully kept to the centre of the path. They all knew how valuable the icons and other treasures were inside the city and also knew that others gazed upon the stout stone walls with avarice and hunger, seeking nothing more than to breach those walls and feast upon the riches inside.

Meeting more and more of their fellow Slann as they made their way onwards, the Sun Gods came across another bank of Dark Elves who were encamped some leagues from the main gate. Upon being asked if they wanted a "friendly" game, the Sun Gods readied themselves. Xholtoc warned his friends about what had happened the last time they had agreed to a "friendly" game and to be on their guard. The others agreed. A crowd of Slann had gathered and were watching with keen interest as to what was to transpire.

As the players gathered to start, a small shadow came screaming through the air as a small projectile made its way from the crowd. Hextep slumped to the ground and was carried off by some of the onlookers, who attended to him as the play began.

The ball was kicked high in to the air and Tlaxconqua waded in to the fray knocking Elves down left and right. The Sun Gods made their way down field trying not to let too many gaps open up in their tight formation and they tried for the opening score. Xholmundi was knocked over with the ball falling to Xholtoc, a series of blocks allowed for the Slann to camp near the line ad score at the end of their sixth turn.

The Elves made their way down the right flank trying to get around the corner of the defence. With time running down, the Slann had a chance to blitz the ball carrier but chose to rely on their superior tackling skills not wanting to miss their block and allow freedom to move. The witch was able to hand off to her teammate who ran around to make it 1-1.

The crowd groaned at the fundamental error and as the players lined up for the second half, it seemed that one of the crowd made to even the score with his own rock arching high in to the air.

Maybe he meant to hit another.

Maybe he meant to simply send a message.

But as Tlaxconqua slumped to the ground the play stopped as many Slann rushed the field to attend to the big Krox. It was not to be. Slain before his time, in such an ignominious way, Tlaxconqua was dead. Wails and lamentations were heard far and wide and the young Slann who had foolishly lost his temper and thrown the rock was dragged away, protesting his innocence and begging for forgiveness. What became of him no one knew nor cared.

This seemed to put the fight out of the Sun Gods. Their listlessness began leading to mistakes and others leaving the field as their armour failed, the treatment tent becoming ever fuller with each turn. The Elves managed to score after reversing the play and catching out the defence. Xholtoc was injured when a blitzer fell on his leg. They all heard the crack of the bone as Xholtoc writhed in agony. The priest that followed the team around discussed the matter with Xholmundi and they decided that the only proper action was to leave him be. Rest and sturdy bindings would see to his recovery as well as keep him safe for the next game.

And yet, the Slann had a chance! Quet-ti broke free and made his way to the end zone. He screamed for a pass and Xholmundi saw it and tried to execute. Sadly, the Gods can be fickle, capricious beings and he fell to the ground. The Elves recovered easily and made their way down and sauntered arrogantly in to the end zone to lukewarm applause from the spectators.

After the game, the Sun Gods were listless and wracked with grief for their loyal friend. They considered what they were to do and mournfully committed the body of Tlaxconqua to the temple priests for internment. Xholmundi however decided that this attitude would not stand.

He screamed out at those present. "Will you show no pride? Will you not join us on our holy journey? Stand up if you are willing to be counted". Many shifted at those stirring words but none moved. As the team went to move on, the crowd parted as a massive shape made its way towards them.

"Mundiconqua help his Slann brothers in memory of mighty Tlaxconqua".

The crowd cheered with renewed vigour and the team moved on.

Xhotl Sun Gods 1-3 Darla Dida DaDark