Cuento de Palabras

Click the pic for the original challenge. Written for Pirate’s Līgo Haībun Challenge.
~ Prompt “South America”

In the mountains of Peru, long ago, there was a young man named Pahuac, born with a simple gift. His heart spoke to him. From the time he was a little boy, he spoke many wonders, and in time, the people flocked to him, saying the words he spoke were so profound they must come from the gods.

The Inca were divided. Those steeped in the tradition of Manco Capac were angry. Pahuac’s words denied the sacred huacas. He said there was only one Huaca, and they believed he meant himself. Pahuac was brought before Túpac Yupanqui and thrown at his feet. “This man speaks for Inti,” the people cried. “He must be put to death.”

“Is this true you speak for our God?” Túpac asked.

“I speak only for my Huaca,” Pahuac answered.

Túpac charged the people. “Gather all the Inca together, every man, every woman, every child.” When all the Inca stood before him, every man, woman, and child, Túpac turned to Pahuac. “Speak now the words that will save your life. What words offer your Huaca for all the Inca people?”

Pahuac spoke only two words. “Munay ki.”

Túpac smiled and Pahuac’s life was spared.

mundo espera
palabras de corazón
yo te quiero

© 2013 Anne Schilde