Caught between the Couple (Patreon)

I designed this Huastec couple years ago. Like the Byzantine OCs from last month, I decided to give them proper names and story.

Yánel and Tzunún are Téenek (Huastec) nobles from Xiuhcoac (Tziccoac) located in present-day North Veracruz. In 1458, Mexica Empire subdued Xiuhcoac for the first time. Xiuhcoac's tie to the Empire, however, was weak due to its physical distance from the capital. Ahuitzotl had to reconquer Xiuhcoac, and he invited their ruler to the dedication of the Huey Teocalli (Templo Mayor) in 1487 to encourage him to be loyal. His efforts appear to have yielded some results, as by the reign of the next tlatoani, Motecuhzoma Xocoyotzin, Xiuhcoac had become a regional administrative center, with imperial tribute collectors stationing there.

Yánel was a princess of Xiuhcoac, and Tzunún was one of the courtiers. They came to Tenochtitlan for the aforementioned dedication of the main temple and have stayed there since then. They came to Tenochtitlan as ‘hostages’ to ensure Xiuhcoac's alliance. They were assigned to live in Xochimazatl's mansion and assist him with Huasteca-related affairs. They were not happy about the situation at first; However, it didn’t take a long time for them to fall in love with Xochimazatl! Later, Yánel became a concubine, and Tzunún became a bodyguard of Xochimazatl.

However, this drawing is set in Xiuhcoac, not Tenochtitlan. Xochimazatl frequently visits Xiuhcoac for diplomatic mission, accompanied by Yánel and Tzunún who serve as local aides. Of course, they always join him to visit their hometown again and to reunite with their relatives. This is also to show the goodwill of Xochimazatl—and, by extension, the Empire—toward the ruling class of Xiuhcoac. However, for now, these three are unconcerned about the political implications of their visit. They are simply pleased to enjoy the familiar surroundings and 'relax' in the luxurious room specially reserved for them in the palace.