I am Lionel Messi, a Spanish soldier. I've joined Hernan Cortez on his expedition of the New World. Under the glorious flag we shall [spread] Christianity under the Spanish Empire! We have begun to traverse the vast ocean towards the new land. We will reach out to the rest of the world, spreading God’s plan and providing salvation for the savage people of the New World. For the most part, we are soldiers, led by Hernan Cortez himself. We are here to protect him and the priest who are serving as missionaries. We will also be creating colonies under Spain, this will benefit everyone, as Spain will have new trade opportunities, and the indigenous will be relieved of their barbaric style of life.

        The new world is an interesting place, the vegetation is lush and plentiful, and it is splendid to have eaten fresh fruits after months at sea eating stale preserves. We have yet to observe the local population. We are told that demons lurk this land, and that we must keep God in our hearts to defeat them when they prey on us during the night. I hope to see civilization soon, it is becoming rather disconcerting, this land appears to have never seen mankind before. I had doubts about our presence in this foreign land, but the priest assured that it was what God willed. That, and large payment upon my return are enough motivation. 

After many long months of exploration, we have made contact with fellow man again. However, our new friends, that we call the Aztecs, have foolish beliefs, and as rumored, live barbaric lives. Our priest has already begun his missionary work, and with mixed responses. Many have seen the light, but many more have not, and we have been ordered to attack a settlement named Tabasco. Tabasco is a Aztec town of those who refuse God’s mercy, and must be punished. We are marching towards the city in unison, morale is higher than ever, for God will protect us.

           God has asked us to prove our faith many times in these months. We have conquered other cities, and subsequently forced out by rebellion. One such city is Tenochtitlan. Such a troublesome city! The Devil’s presence is very strong there, and has forced us to regroup and defend ourselves in the new land. Many of the indigenous have died of pestilence, which they seem to have never encountered before. This illness does not affect us, it is a clear sign from God himself, ordering us to push on, and that we have. We have retaken the city as well as other Aztec tribes, and most of them have been converted. These people have been saved by the glory of God, we have traded extensively with them, we have amassed a huge sum of gold and other supplies! 

        It has been a year since I have returned from my expedition. One learns to appreciate their family and home after spending years abroad. My journey was very much interesting, and has opened my eyes to what the world contains. My soul is at peace, not only have a served God, but the Spanish Empire, and have amassed a small fortune myself, clearly a reward from God. I do not see myself partaking in such journey again, as it was a very difficult time. I hope that God understands, and allows me to age at the presence of my family.