Ahuitzotl: A Novel of Aztec Mexico

By H. Allenger

Arrogant pride and impassioned love of a woman bring to ruin the greatest of Aztec warrior-kings, Ahuitzotl. The fierce conqueror Ahuitzotl shapes the events that ultimately destroy him.

Ambitious, bold, proud, and undefeated on the battlefield, the charismatic and dynamic warlord, Ahuitzotl; stops at nothing in order to attain his vainglo

• Language: English
• Publisher: Writers Book Fair
• Release date: Aug 17, 2023
• ISBN: 9781962313131

H. Allenger

H. Allenger earned a BA in public administration and an MA in International Relations. After thirty-one years with the Seattle School District, he is now retired and pursuing his true passions, which include archaeology, history, mythology, and writing. He currently resides in Seattle, Washington, and enjoys travelling the world.

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Copyright © 2023 by H. Allenger.

Library of Congress Control Number: 2023914075

ISBN (Paperback) : 978-1-962313-14-8

ISBN (Hardback) : 978-1-962313-15-5

ISBN (eBook) : 978-1-962313-13-1

All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced in any form or by any electronic or mechanical means, including information storage and retrieval systems, without permission in writing from the author and publisher, except by reviewers, who may quote brief passages in a review.

Some characters and events in this book are fictitious and products of the author’s imagination. Any similarity to real persons, living or dead, is coincidental and not intended by the author.

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Contents

Acknowledgments

Pronunciation and Identification

Prologue

Part 1

The Death of a King

I

II

III

IV

V

VI

VII

VIII

IX

X

XI

XII

XIII

XIV

XV

XVI

XVII

XVIII

XIX

XX

XXI

XXII

Part 2

The Outrage

I

II

III

IV

V

VI

VII

VIII

IX

X

XI

XII

XIII

XIV

XV

XVI

XVII

XVIII

XIX

XX

XXI

XXII

XXIII

XXIV

XXV

XXVI

XXVII

XXVIII

Part 3

The Eagle Soars

I

II

III

IV

V

VI

VII

VIII

IX

X

XI

XII

XIII

XIV

XV

XVI

XVII

XVIII

XIX

XX

XXI

XXII

XXII

Part 4

Retribution

I

II

III

IV

V

VI

VII

VIII

IX

X

XI

XII

XIII

XIV

XV

XVI

XVII

XVIII

XIX

XX

Epilogue

The Aftermath

Afterword

To Xochiquetzal

Acknowledgments

I am indebted to the following sources: Fr. Bernardino de Sahagun (Arthur J.O. Anderson and Charles E. Dibble trans.); Fr. Diego Duran (Fernando Horcasitas and Doris Heyden trans.); Bernal Diaz; William Brandon; Gordon Brotherston; Burr Cartwright Brundage; Nigel Davies; R.C. Padden; Frederick Peterson; Jacques Soustelle; Seattle Public Library; University of Washington Library. Also, I would like to express my gratitude to Judith Zier for her years of continuous support and companionship to Me xico.

Pronunciation and Identification

Ahuitzotl (Ah-wheet-sohtl); Water Dog, eighth Revered Speaker of Mexico, 1486-1502.

Anahuac (Ah-nah-wahk); Near by the water; Valley of Mexico.

Axayacatl (Ah-shah-yah-kahtl); Water Face, sixth Revered Speaker of Mexico, 1469-1481; brother of Ahuitzotl and Tizoc.

Chalchihuitlicue (Chal-chee-wheet-lee-kwah); She of the Jade Skirt; Water Goddess; consort of Tlaloc, the Rain God.

Chalchiunenetzin (Chal-chwee-nay-nay-tsin); Jadestone Doll, wife of Nezahaulpilli, daughter of Axayacatl, shortened to Nenetzin.

Chimalpopoca (Chee-mahl-poh-poh-kah); Smoking Shield, Ruler of Tlacopan, a city of the Triple Alliance.

Cihuacoatl (See-wah-koh-ahtl); Woman Snake, Chief Minister and Vice-Ruler of Tenochtitlan; also the Earth Goddess.

Cocijoeza (Koh-see-hoh-ay-sah); Ruler of the Zapotecs, a major adversary of Ahuitzotl.

Cuauhtemoc (Kwow-tay-mock); Descending Eagle, son of Ahuitzotl and the last Revered Speaker of Mexico, 1520-1524.

Huactli (Whock-tlee); Hawk, Lord of the Pochteca (merchants).

Huaxtecs (Whash-tecks); people of the Panuco River basin who spoke in a Mayan type tongue and often battled the Aztecs.

Huitzilopochtli (Wheet-see-loh-poach-tlee); Hummingbird of the South, martial patron god of the Aztecs, and specifically of Tenochtitlan.

Maquauhuitl (Mah-kwow-wheetl); war club with embedded obsidian or stone blades, standard weapon for Aztec warriors.

Mictlantecuhtli (Meek-tlahn-tay-ku-tlee); Lord of the place of the dead; God of Death

Motecuhzoma Ilhuicamina (Moh-tay-ku-soh-mah Eel-whee-kah-me-nah); Angry Lord W2ho Shoots At The Sky, fifth Revered Speaker of Mexico, 1440-1469; grandfather of Ahuitzotl, Axayacatl, and Tizoc.

Motecuhzoma Xocoyotzin (Shoh-koh-yoh-tsin); Angry Lord, the Younger, son of Axayacatl and ninth Revered Speaker of Mexico, 1502-1520.

Nezahualcoyotl (Ness-ah-wahl-koh-yohtl); Fasting Coyote, Ruler of Texcoco, 1402-1472; famed philosopher-king, poet, and patron of arts.

Nezahualpilli (Ness-ah-wahl-peel-lee); Fasting Prince, Ruler of Texcoco, 1472-1515, son of Nezahaulcoyotl, also famed for erudition, poetry, and building.

Pelaxilla (Pay-lah-sheel-lah); Cotton Ball, lover and mistress of Ahuitzotl.

Quetzalcoatl (Kett-sahl-koh-ahtl); Plumed Serpent, God of Knowledge; Wind God; Creator God of Mankind, often depicted as an adversary of the God Tezcatlipoca.

Tenochtitlan (Tay-noach-tee-tlahn); Place by the Hard Prickly-Pear Cactus, the island capital of the Aztecs.

Texcoco (Tesh-koh-koh); capital of Acolhuacan (Ah-kohl-wah-kahn); a city of the Triple Alliance and acknowledged cultural center of the Aztecs.

Tezcatlipoca (Tess-kah-tlee-poh-kah); Smoking Mirror, supreme god of the Aztec pantheon; eternally young god of the night sky; patron god of sorcerers and magicians.

Tizoc (Tee-sock); Bloodstained Leg, the seventh Revered Speaker of Mexico, 1481-1486, brother of Ahuitzotl and Axayacatl.

Tlalalcapatl (Tlah-lahl-kah-pahtl): Earth Medicine? Shortened to Tlalalca, empress, mother of Cuauhtemoc.

Tlaloc (Tlah-lock); He Who Makes Things Sprout, Rain God.

Tonatiuh (Toh-nah-tee-uh); He Who Lights; Sun God.

Xiuhcoac (Shee-uh-koh-ahk); capital city of the Huaxtecs.

Xiuhtecuhtli (Shee-uh-tay-kuh-tlee); Turquoise Lord, God of Fire, Lord of Time.

Xochiquetzal (Shoh-chee-kett-sahl); Flower Feather or Precious Flower, Goddess of Beauty and Love, also of Flowers and Fertility.

Xoyo (Sho-yoh); aged servant woman to Tlalalca.

Prologue

W e fear our Gods! Our ninth Revered Speaker, Motecuhzoma, - to you Lord Montezuma- is said to have told his captor, the conqueror Cortez. And indeed he was most sincere in his convictions. Even as a young man Motecuhzoma took his religious studies very seriously and early in life formulated strong views in this regard. He was particularly seduced with a notion of the God Quetzalcoatl returning, as promised, to Anahuac in the year One Reed – within his own lifetime- of whose eventuality he needed no persuasion. But mainly his proclivity was a result of experiences and observations met during the reign of his noteworthy predecessor, the great warrior-king, Ahuitzotl – Water Dog- which infused in him the dreadful trepidations leading to his inevitable ruin when confronted by the foreign inv ader.

The punishment that our Gods inflicted upon Lord Ahuitzotl is spoken of to this day. That fierce warlord’s rise to predominance and then the horrid wretchedness of his last days –the ignominy of it –pitiless and cruel!- and this to the mightiest monarch ever to rule in Tenochtitlan! He was the very embodiment of power and resolution, courageous and resourceful, unequalled and supreme master on the battlefield, but oh, the humiliation. Truly he was humbled. And Motecuhzoma was there to see it all. So certainly he was justified in declaring his conviction, for he had borne witness to its veracity.

But had he? Some say that Motecuhzoma erred in large measure over how he interpreted the misfortunes that befell his illustrious fore-bearer, a serious mistake leading him to his own calamitous end years later. His was, when everything is taken into account, but one of many depictions rendered for those astonishing events forever associated with Lord Ahuitzotl. Although of royalty, he was not one among the elite circle of Ahuitzotl’s court, being too young at the time and often away on the frequent far-flung expeditions he was sent on. In fact, insiders to the royal household have given us a different narration of his reign –of how Lord Ahuitzotl generated into motion the events commonly accepted to be the orchestrations of angry Gods. They have spoken of how he was, for the most part, responsible for his own fall, and much of it had to do with his impassioned love of a woman.

Now, let us turn the pages forward and learn of the truths behind the transpired events that so profoundly affected a youthful Motecuhzoma as revealed to us by the All-Seeing, All-Knowing, Eternal Lord of the Night Sky, first among the Gods, Tezcatlipoca. You understand, of course, the need to remain anonymous as this story is related. Our new masters possess no tolerance for our age-long traditions and sacred ways, readily discrediting the importance these rituals held for us in sustaining life, unable to discern its necessity, denouncing these as the Devil’s work, and condemning us for basic practices we believed essential for preserving the fifth Sun. They have no insight into our world, being ignorant as they are. But let us proceed.

By your calendar’s reckoning, the year is 1486. Ahuitzotl is not yet the monarch. It is his younger brother, Tizoc, who sits on the throne –to the discontent of many, including members of the Council of Speakers, the Tlatoani, who appointed him to rule.

-A priest of Tezcatlipoca

circa 1530 A.D.

Part 1

The Death of a King

"M ost mighty lord and brave youth; you have inherited the royal seat, of very rich and fine feathers, and the hall of precious stones that the God Quetzalcoatl, great Topiltzin, and the wonderful and glorious Huitzilopochtli have left behind them. This royal throne is only lent to you, and not for ever but for a short while only. The brave rulers who preceded you have exalted and extended this realm, more especially your grandfather, great Motecuhzoma, of high and revered memory, who, in his long life, raised it to a high pitch of glory such as it had never before atta ined.

Therefore, my lord, take care not to be of faint heart. Look carefully to what you do Take heed for the orphan and for the widow, for the aged who can work no longer, because these are the plumes, the eyelashes, and the eye-brows of Huitzilopochtli. Most especially you must care for the eagles and the tigers, those brave and valiant men, who act as a rampart of defense for you and your realm, and who extend its boundaries by the shedding of their blood. With these words, my lord, I end my speech.

-Nezahualpilli of Texcoco at the appointment

of Tizoc as Revered Speaker*

* Nigel Davies,’The Aztecs’, University of Oklahoma Press, 1973, pp. 152-153.

I

Ahuitzotl stood in all his contradictions before the palace door watching work crews emplace masonry atop the second tier of the future Great Temple in Tenochtitlan. Handsome and possessed of a solid, muscular frame that rose to medium height, an aura of sublime countenance bespeaking of confidence and lordliness embodied his personage. But he was not as elaborately attired as might have been expected, cutting an image of austerity in shunning the profuse embellishments his peers would have proudly, even arrogantly, displayed. He had none of the facial ornaments - the golden earlobes, half-moons, or lip insertions- nor the necklaces of metallic beads and small marine shells that others wore, his jewelry limited to the golden arm bracelets common to the aristocracy. Nothing about his dress, not his golden embroidered breechcloth, or his blue cotton tunic, or his tilmatli, a cape fastened over his right shoulder which hung down in back to knee level, not even his feathery tasseled headband with gold trimmings, made him stand out as a particularly distinguished individual. However, his sandals, of turquoise blue fabric and golden laces, marked him as a member of the highest nobility, that of the royal house, and brother of the reigning monarch. Yet his modest ensemble opposed a reputation for conspicuousness he had acquired among those who knew him. He demonstrated a will of his own and, apart from the rigid conformity demanded by sacred rituals and protocol of courtly life, made a habit of adapting the rules to meet his purp oses.

The Great Temple, as gigantic a construction project as ever undertaken by the Tenocha-Mexica, was to be an abode for their chief tribal deity, the war-god Huitzilopochtli, and the rain-god Tlaloc, who would occupy separate shrines upon its uppermost platform, and the crowning achievement of Tizoc, the seventh Revered Speaker, monarch of the realm. Its conception was not Tizoc’s, however; that claim belonged to his predecessor, Axayacatl, and it was he, not Tizoc, who had implemented the groundwork. He meant to commemorate his triumph over the ruler of Tlatelolco, Tenochtitlan’s rival city on the lake, by erecting this gigantic edifice to symbolize their unification into one metropolis, but he died unexpectedly from wounds received in an earlier war. Ahuitzotl had anticipated the interclan council would appoint him as successor, but it had chosen Tizoc. And now, in his fifth year as Revered Speaker, Tizoc decided to make the project his major priority and directed all his energies toward its completion. Plaudits would come to him for this –as long as Tenochtitlan ruled, Tizoc would be immortalized as the builder of that imposing structure.

Treasonous thoughts raced through Ahuitzotl’s brain. They were brothers, all three of them -Ahuitzotl, Axayacatl, and Tizoc- grandsons of the famed Motecuhzoma Ilhuicamina and inheritors of an established tradition of empire building. Since the time of Motecuhzoma’s progenitor, Itzcoatl, the Mexica had subdued their rivals and embarked on a trail of conquests which had made them masters of the highland valley, Anahuac, so that now scores of cities rendered tribute to them. What conquerors they were! Itzcoatl, who set the pattern for the rest, subjected Anahuac under his rule. Next came Ahuitzotl’s illustrious grandfather, whose very name is uttered in deepest reverence. He had warred on countless tribes, defeating them all, and built the aqueduct from Chapultepec to Tenochtitlan. Then came Ahuitzotl’s brother, Axayacatl, a most worthy heir, who fought the powerful Tarascans and isolated Tlaxcala by subjugating the nations around it. He forever ended the intolerable rivalry of Tlatelolco and by doing so established Tenochtitlan’s supremacy. That Tizoc should be counted among such giants bordered on insult.

Tizoc! In his opening campaign against Metztitlan, his poor leadership allowed the Huaxtecs, allies of the enemy, to send him into a humiliating retreat. In his wars against the Mixtecs he cowered behind the lines -he said he was afflicted with chills and fever- and it fell upon Ahuitzotl to take command of the situation, secure victory, and win respect for Mexica arms. And yet Tizoc would finish the Great Temple so that all will remember his name and sing praises to his glory. A deception was in progress here –foul and dishonorable.

You have been standing here for a long time, Lord. Your excessive absorption allows for much conjecture.

His thoughts abruptly broken, Ahuitzotl glanced up to see Cihuacoatl, the Woman Snake, chief minister of Tizoc’s court. Cihuacoatl’s actual name was Tlilpopocatzin, but he was always addressed by the title of his office.

Why should it, Cihuacoatl? replied Ahuitzotl. The structure is impressive -it doesn’t tire one’s eyes to observe it.

True. However, you failed to notice me approaching you -from it. You are looking at the temple, but you see something else.

I was contemplating its enormity –the suggestion of a single temple serving two of our primary gods. Will this not generate envy between them?

When the work is done and the dedication rites begin we shall find out. You are being evasive, Prince. We both know well enough what you were thinking –do I need to say it?

Such an overture was typical of Cihuacoatl. An adroit minister of the state and Vice-Ruler of Tenochtitlan, he was second in power only to the monarch himself. While he was not particularly liked by Ahuitzotl, or many of the other nobles -a reaction he elicited through an abrasive mannerism- there was significant respect attached to his position. He was a man to be reckoned with, a Tlatoani, one of the principals of the inter clan council, that body of chosen speakers which elected the ruler. As the council’s ranking member, he exerted major influence, and Ahuitzotl was well aware of a statement made by Cihuacoatl’s father, Tlacaelel, the greatest Tlatoani of them all, that there was no reason for him to be king when he himself told kings what to do. Cihuacoatl was, in every sense of the word, the maker of Mexica ‘kings’.

Go on, Ahuitzotl said. Enlighten me.

It’s not the envy of gods you contemplate, but the envy of brothers. You resent the prestige this magnificent temple will bring to Lord Tizoc’s memory. Dismiss these thoughts, Lord. They are not worthy of you.

Do you think I would trouble myself to deny it? Ahuitzotl countered after a brief pause. I’m not alone in questioning if Tizoc deserves this. There is much resentment.

Enhanced by you, no doubt.

Ahuitzotl was offended by the insinuation. Chief Minister you may be, Cihuacoatl, he said, but I remind you to maintain your courtesy when speaking to a member of the royal house. You have no cause to deprecate me. Any feelings I harbor my brother, I’ve kept to myself. No, minister. If there is dissatisfaction in the realm -and it becomes more apparent at every passing day- the fault lies with Tizoc. Say what you will; it will not diminish the deterioration emanating from the throne. I have no need to proclaim the obvious.

You may not express it, but your actions make your intentions clear enough, Royal Prince. Your hostility towards Lord Tizoc is well known to us -so well that it no longer merits my attention, said Cihuacoatl, turning to make his departure, but Ahuitzotl brought him to a halt.

You have wronged me, Cihuacoatl!

Indeed! How?

I was the rightful heir as the eldest brother. Everyone knows this. My conduct in battle is of the highest merit, distinguished and honorable –my bravery unquestioned. I am the ablest of our commanders. Is it not the duty of the council to choose the man most capable of leading us as Revered Speaker?

So it is.

Then how is it that Tizoc sits upon the throne? What has my brother done to earn him that exulted...

He sits on the throne, Cihuacoal angrily interrupted, because the council chose the man best fit to rule. Does this offend you, Lord? If you dispute the council’s judgment, be warned! You come perilously close to condemning yourself before the gods.

The stern admonishment momentarily quieted Ahuitzotl, but his eyes glared with an intensity belying his affected composure. Excuse the pain and bitterness I feel, he said. My reaction to the disappointment which overwhelms me when I reflect on the council’s decision.

Accept it, Lord! If you do not, it will poison your mind. Rulers are appointed for life and Lord Tizoc is a young man -you will suffer a lengthy torment if you trouble yourself with that.

It was an injustice to me -I will never forgive the council for that!

An injustice? Cihuacoatl roared out.

Yes, an injustice! It was I who led the army and won us honors. For this Axayacatl himself granted me command of the Order of the Eagles. And where was Tizoc then? At the school in Calixtlahuaca to study the arts of statecraft. I ask you, did his education save us from the Huaxtecs? Or from the Mixtecs? Did it spare us from humiliation? How many times have I rescued him from certain defeat? You say he is best fit to rule? Nonsense!

Enough! Nobody doubts your ability in the conduct of wars, Lord Ahuitzotl, but there is more to running a state than waging war. It might have done you some good to spend more time at Calixtlahuaca.

I have learned what I most need to know. Mainly how to properly serve Huitzilopochtli, our Sustainer. Am I not his high priest?

Cihuacoatl was not impressed. For you, a perfunctory duty bestowed by a royal assignment. Huitzilopochtli does not rule the skies alone, Lord. What of Tezcatlipoca? And of Tlaloc, or Quetzalcoatl? What do the sacred rites of Tlaltecuhtli signify? How would you propitiate these gods? If you cannot tell me, then ask your brother. He would know.

Ahuitzotl remained silent, embarrassed over having his deficiency in these matters stated.

Hear me, Royal Prince, continued Cihuacoatl. You are a headstrong and ambitious man, and that is a dangerous combination. Not only for you, but for the realm. Men whose actions are guided by, and directed towards, their own perceived interests place these above the state and rarely attend to the duties of their office. They measure success by their own gratification rather than by what is beneficial -doing what is preferred to what is required. Did you expect we would imperil our lives by having such a man alienate the gods through impiety or ignorance? You are blinded by your conceit. In praising your accomplishments, to an exaggerated degree I might add, you diminish those of your brother, and are unable to see his worthiness. But I have said enough -it’s unlikely you will heed my advice. Be grateful I remain silent on what I have heard.

Ahuitzotl paused as he mused over the minister’s words. You misjudge me, he then said, but I am thankful for your prudence. Yet note what I say. My time for greatness will come –of this I am certain!- and I shall outdo them all. What my father, and his father, and my brothers have done, I shall do ten times over. The cities they took I shall double, and the captives they took I shall increase a hundredfold. This I swear before all the gods! Tizoc may build his massive temple, but my glory will someday eclipse his. I shall surpass them all!

Such determination could hardly be dismissed by Cihuacoatl and, for an instant, he even felt a chill come over him as what he heard bore into his mind. But upon further deliberation, he brushed aside his first intuition, recognizing these things are simpler said than done. For one thing, where would such opportunities arise? Ahuitzotl was not the Revered Speaker. Still, an uneasiness remained with him, and he knew that he must now ponder over what possibilities the sheer strength of will can bring to fortune.

Perhaps -if the gods will it, Cihuacoatl whispered, turning to make his departure.

Ahuitzotl’s gaze remained fixed on the minister as he crossed the plaza for the temple complex. Could the Woman Snake be trusted? What was his true standing with Tizoc? There were some in the court who held that Cihuacoatl was highly displeased with his appointment of Tizoc to the kingship, that he even admitted to an error in judgment. But such talk was speculative. It may have been a dangerous miscalculation to speak ill of the monarch.

Ahuitzotl turned his eyes back on the temple and scanned over the sight of sweating bodies laboring upon the wooden ramps and scaffolding. The surge of indignation he felt was overpowering, gnawing at him for seemingly the longest time, until, at last, he was compelled to look away. Beyond the hubbub of activity he saw dark clouds descending on the distant peaks of Iztaccihuatl and Popocatepetl as if congruent with the mood projected by the one thought that dominated him. I shall surpass them all!

II

At the school in Calixtlahuaca, two of the head priests, who also performed as the principal instructors, discussed the future of one of their more noteworthy stud ents.

Have you told him yet?

I am to meet with him shortly. I shall break the news to him then.

Does he know?

I think he suspects it. Word from the court has a way of reaching the ears of those not meant to hear it.

Will he be ready to accept the change in store for him?

It does not matter whether we think he is ready for it. The Revered Speaker has decided that he is. To be fair, Motecuhzoma has excelled in all his courses here, and although I would personally have him spend another year with us, there are other, shall we say more sinister, aspects of statesmanship to be learned that cannot be taught here. He is brilliant and has a gift for leadership. Such men are rare and it is proper that his further education be acquired in the courts.

"Even so, it’s regrettable we could not keep such a talent for service to Huitzilopochtli. There’s something disagreeable about only the second best being priests.

Huitzilopochtli can be better served by the most brilliant becoming the rulers.

You believe this? If it is the gods who confer their blessings on the state, what can be more important than devoting one’s life to them?

Even as priests, there are practical realities to be faced. We know how to appease the gods while the strength of the state protects our institutions from those who would not have us -and there are many of them. As long as we have rulers who fear the gods, we shall be able to amply continue serving them.

You make it seem so obvious.

The nobility throughout the realm brings its future kings, judges, administrators, and priests to this school. What is essential is that we assure these students leave here with a proper regard for our gods. By doing so, we please them, as well as ourselves.

With that, they parted. The taller priest, attired in the black robe denoting his order, proceeded to his study and sat down to reflect over the many reports he had received on his expected visitor.

His was an impressive record. In all the courses taught at the school, Motecuhzoma excelled. These included the details and functions of government, administration, justice, history, the interpretation of glyphs, astronomy, architecture and engineering, agriculture, genealogies, hunting, and the skills of warfare. His devotion to the religious studies entailing both instruction and temple service, an apprenticeship to priesthood, was flawless. He had mastered reading the calendar, determining and fixing the time of feasts, and performing the required rituals and incantations. He was taught how to interpret dreams, astrology, verses of divine songs, and the counting of the years. His ratings were of the highest category; never had there been a more exemplary record on anyone who resided here.

His full name was Motecuhzoma Xocoyotzin. He was the son of Axayacatl and great grandson of the revered Motecuhzoma Ilhuicamina and a prince of the Royal House of Tenochtitlan. There was little doubt that this student was destined to take his place among the ruling elites. No person of such lineage and such extraordinary achievement could fail to leave his stamp among the chroniclers of Anahuac. He would most likely spend his next two or three years in the lower echelons of the military and in an apprenticeship to key ministers and then be promoted as a personal aide to some ranking official. It fit the usual pattern, except that he was beginning at an earlier age and ahead of his contemporaries. This youth was being groomed for nothing less than a candidacy for the kingship itself. The priest knew he must exercise prudence with this progeny, one who could be an ally of significant importance in years to come.

A rapping on the door announced to the priest that his guest had arrived and awaited permission to enter. This the priest immediately granted and he watched while the tall, lanky youngster briskly walked to the center of the room and stopped when squarely ahead of him. He studied his subject at length, as if groping for a sign of flaw in this seemingly paragon of Mexica manhood, and then began.

You are Motecuhzoma Xocoyotzin?

I am, came his confident reply.

Do you know why you have been summoned to me?

I have heard I am wanted back at the court in Tenochtitlan.

To come directly to the point, the Revered Speaker, Lord Tizoc, has requested that you terminate your training here so you can assume full-time duties among the ministers, priests, and commanders as an understudy in their professions. Evidently he is of the opinion that your presence is now desireable or required –for what reasons I was not told- and has some specific assignment envisioned for you.

The priest paused to scan the young man’s face but detected no particular emotion in it. You are not disappointed then, he surmised.

No. I am in need of a change.

Have the instructions here become stale for you?

Perhaps prolonged. I feel I have mastered the subjects taught to me and prefer being introduced to new challenges.

You record certainly attests to that. At this juncture, the priest thought it appropriate to probe his student to the extent of his reverence, not only to determine whether the training had been effective, but also to satisfy in his mind that Motecuhzoma was aptly indoctrinated and would face the world with his convictions properly implanted. In summarizing your education here, what is your conclusion about our service to the gods? Are you assured that we accede to their wishes in order to secure their blessings?

We amply serve them in our rituals. I see no reason for thinking otherwise.

So you see the gods as the manipulators of our fortunes and arbiters of all that we do.

Of course! We would risk invoking their wrath through any remission in our obligations to them.

‘It is often done, with the gravest consequences afflicting upon us. The chroniclers mention it repeatedly -sickness, fires, the floods, and the deep snows, drought and famine- disasters which have brought great misery and suffering. Warnings from the gods resulting from man’s failure to show them obeisance! Take care in your dealings with them, Motecuhzoma. As our providers, they must be nourished and sustained. We live within the fifth cycle. Four previous suns have existed and flowered an age for man, and each of them has been destroyed, and so will this one be destroyed if the gods, who preserve it for us, are weakened. The eternal night demons constantly strive to make their claim upon this world. It is only by the strength of divine Huitzilopochtli embattling them that the path is cleared for the glorious Sun, Tonatiuh, so that life can flourish. It is blood -our blood- that sustains them, and this same substance which assures them life also gives us life. Explain to me why this is so."

The gods created us from the bones of previous men mixed with their blood, which is the seed developing our being. Since from their blood they created us, it is fitting that we in turn from our blood nourish them. We are, in essence, the harvest from the seed they have sown and are therefore sustenance for them. Our sacrifice assures us of their dominion so that all can continue to exist.

‘You must appreciate it as a self-perpetuating system, with one surviving to support the other and thus ensuring its own existence. Were one element to fail in doing its part, it would cause the others to fail. Our universe would fall into eternal darkness and life would cease. Each deity has a distinctive function to perform in maintaining this cycle and none can be ignored. All must be propitiated so that no jealousies are invoked. This does not deter us from having our favorites -many are revered for the services they perform- as long as they collectively have institutions to honor them. The magicians and sorcerers honor Tezcatlipoca because he alone sees all that takes place in the world, and it is through patronizing him that he reveals what he sees to them. As for myself, I feel most indebted to Huitzilopochtli. An excellent choice for our patron god -wouldn’t you agree?"

Surely I cannot diminish his importance to us, but where I to name my own favorite, I should choose Quetzalcoatl.

Indeed? a puzzled look came over the priest. I should have thought Huitzilopochtli. Why Quetzalcoatl?

He is closest to me. It is he who searched the underworld for the bones so we could be recreated with his own blood. He gave us corn and taught us how to cultivate it. He taught us to use a calendar and the sacred rituals, and who gave us knowledge of the arts and showed us how to build. He endowed us with the wisdom by which we can honor the other gods.

The priest, not pleased over having his own choice relegated to second place by a mere youth, felt compelled to sway Motecuhzoma from his preference. But Huitzilopochtli assures us the daily sun, he said. Is this not greater than what Quetzalcoatl has done?

"I seek not to minimize this, but if he must receive his nourishment and strength from our blood, then are we not as important to him as he is to us? Must he then not also be indebted to Quetzelcoatl?

The priest was amazed. There is a formidable power in the intellect.

I see. You make a strong case for your choice, but remember, having already arranged for our creation and taught us how to grow our food and given us our knowledge, he is not tasked with the awesome duties that Huitzilopochtli must do for us. For this reason he does not require the number of sacrifices that we must give to Huitzilopochtli.

Quetzalcoatl has said that he did not wish to have any sacrifices at all, yet he is a god and must therefore be so served.

Is that why you favor him?

Quetzalcoatl alone among the gods has promised to return to us so that he might teach us how to create a paradise in which to live. What greater honor could befall us than to be visited by a god?

Do you expect such divine intervention?

So the sacred texts tell us. He said he would return in the year One Reed -thirty-four years from now -easily within my lifetime, if the gods are disposed to grant me such fortune.

I suppose. It’s clear you are sufficiently regardful in your piety that I see no point in continuing. But be advised, Motecuhzoma. Do not neglect the other gods in your zeal for Quetzalcoatl, for they will know this and punish you for it. Nothing escapes their notice. How well do you know your kinsman, Lord Ahuitzotl?

This sudden turn of questioning seemed to catch Motecuhzoma unprepared and the priest waited on his answer.

Hardly at all, replied the youth. I was very young when my father sent me here and, even before then, I rarely saw him. I have no recollection of him.

Hmmm, the priest mumbled. It constituted a breach of etiquette for a student to ask Questions unless directed, but the step was not necessary as the priest read Motecuhzoma’s impatience. You are to report to the headquarters of the Order of the Eagles in Tenochtitlan, he said. You are assigned to the command of Lord Ahuitzotl. He will determine your further disposition and direct you to the duties anticipated for you. You have one month to arrange for your departure before reporting to him. That is all.

Motecuhzoma appeared momentarily dazed, either due to the excitement over his new prospects or an alarm over the seeming abruptness in which the session had come to an end. The priest, ascribing it to the latter, was prompted to make the termination more agreeable. May the gods protect you, Motecuhzoma, he said.

The youngster turned about and exited from the chamber leaving the priest staring blankly at an austere wall. There was an unmistakably troubled look in his face indicating that he was not pleased with where their conversation had led them. Is it possible, he thought, that this student has received his education too seriously?

III

In Tenochtitlan’s royal palace, the ladies of the court sat on cushions chatting over things of common interest and amusement. Amid the elation and laughter arising from hearing about the latest escapades came an appreciation of individual attributes and an admiration for those who best contributed to the gaiety of the occasion. Through these gatherings the wives and mistresses of the monarch created their bonds of friendship. But in spite of the numerous ladies present to serve his sensual needs, there was only one empress, and that was his first or favorite wife who, by commanding most of his attention and affection, attained a position of dominance over her entourage. She was Tlalalca, the beautiful young wife of Tizoc, and she surrounded herself with her courtly favorites to pass the afternoon engaging in the pleasantries of casual conversa tion.

How vain our lords are! she began. Did you see how they carried themselves at the reception yesterday? Their aloof posturing –and in their most ornate attire. Each one struts prouder and naughtier than the other before our Lord Tizoc, as if he was of such singular importance that the Revered Speaker should take special note of him.

But that is expected of them, said one of the ladies.

Yes, but like everything else, it can be overdone until it begins to have an unfashionable quality about it. I’m sure it seemed absurd to Lord Nezahualpilli who was there to see it all. His court in Texcoco is known for its refinement. He must think we come across as quite artificial.

Nezahualpilli is here? one more lady interjected with some excitement. They say he is quite the lover.

It’s said he has over a thousand concubines, added another, and forty wives. How does he get to each one?

I dare say, Tlalalca replied, such a remark is so typical of you, Nenetzin. You do have a way of getting to the point of a subject.

This sparked an outburst of laughter among the members who appreciated its message. Tlalalca continued, Perhaps you should ask Nezahualpilli how he manages it. Such straight- forwardness may be pleasing to him over all our affectation. But let’s not dwell on this. I do not care to have my afternoon spoiled with this sort of vulgarity.

‘As you say, my Lady, but I’m sorry I missed him. Someone will have to point him out to me next time. I would like to see what such a man looks like."

Come now, Nenetzin, you make this Texcocan seem too extraordinary, another of the ladies broke in. Surely we also have lords to compare with him.

And which of our lords might that be? asked Nenetzin.

Lord Ahuitzotl, a voice spoke out assertively.

A hush ensued, as if out of an awareness that an apparent error had been precipitated.

That must be Pelaxilla, Tlalalca said after a brief delay. We know she has taken a fancy to him.

It’s true I admire him, my Lady, replied Pelaxilla, but even if this were not so, we are improper in placing our own lords below Texcoco.

This mild rebuke offended none, for Pelaxilla was fondly regarded. She was seen as one of those endearing personalities who with seemingly effortless ease exude a winsome presence and manage to attract well-wishes out of all who know her.

Our little one is correct, of course, said Tlalalca. But let us remind her that we are not talking about all the lords of Texcoco -only one. And in truth Nezahualpilli is an exceptional man if we are to believe what we hear of him. He is by reputation the wisest man in Anahuac -even Lord Tizoc places the greatest value on his counsel.

He may be all they say, but I didn’t even notice him, answered Pelaxilla.

Of course not, Nenetzin quickly added. The only person you see is Lord Ahuitzotl.

With good reason. Is he not the handsomest man in all Tenochtitlan? Pelaxilla retorted.

I have seen better.

Have you? How selfish of you to keep it from the rest of us, Nenetzin. Tell us who so that we might share your opinion.

Yes, Nenetzin, tell us! another voice demanded.

Nenetzin pondered over it for a moment not really knowing whom she had in mind when she made her earlier remark. Finding herself on the defensive, she decided to name whoever came to her.

Take Cihuacoatl for example, there’s...

Cihuacoatl! Pelaxilla did not allow her to finish, That old worn-out beast? You dare to compare Ahuitzotl to him?

Again the room resounded with laughter.

Now, Pelaxilla, Tlalalca interceded, Let’s not get personal over this. Cihuacoatl may have his faults, but he assuredly does not merit the lowly appellation that you assign him. Be reasonable, child! You cannot expect everyone to share your enthusiasm for Lord Ahuitzotl. Handsome he may well be, but the real worth of a man lies in more than mere appearances. Even an ugly man can be appreciated, perhaps even loved, when one learns that he possesses noble qualities.

Excuse my unkind words, my Lady, said Pelaxilla, her embarrassment much in evidence. They were thoughtlessly expressed.

You are forgiven, my dear. You are young and in love, and we can understand how that can deprive us of our better judgment. After all, were we not all in the same situation once? Lord Ahuitzotl is indeed fortunate to have such a devoted admirer.

Why are all these nobles here? inquired Nenetzin.

There are movements that portend another war. The nobles meet in council tomorrow to discuss the matter. Lord Tizoc mentioned something about a revolt in Toluca, I believe.

Another war? I hope not. It’s not very exciting around here when our men are gone.

For shame, Nenetzin! You risk angering the gods in making light of this, for they ordain these things.

I only said it in jest, my Lady, Nenetzin retracted.

Still, it would be better not to tempt them. We should not question the purpose of our men’s action as it involves our relationship with them and has great importance, counseled Tlalalca who then chanced to see the ashen look in Pelaxilla. Is something wrong, Pelaxilla? You seem unduly disturbed by the news.

I just did not wish Ahuitzotl to be gone again. It’s been only a few weeks since he returned from the last war.

Back to Ahuitzotl? Really, child. You do weary me with your constant preoccupation over him. You must accept that there is a design behind what our Lord Tizoc intends to do. Were it not necessary, I should think it would not be done. But I have heard enough of Ahuitzotl. I shall retire to my chamber for my bath. Perhaps our conversation will be more pleasant tomorrow.

With that, Tlalalca arose and departed from the room, accompanied by her loyal servant, the aged Xoyo, while the remaining ladies were left to puzzle over her annoyance. Nenetzin gave Pelaxilla a wary glance.

You have angered her, Pelaxilla, she said. If I were you, I would be more careful.

I didn’t mean to. She asked me what troubled me, and I told her. What have I done wrong?

It would be prudent for you not to mention Lord Ahuitzotl’s name again. Something about him upsets her.

But why?

I don’t know. But it’s rather obvious -isn’t it?- so please be cautious. We like you and would hate to see you dismissed from the court.

Pelaxilla, not understanding her transgression, was jolted by this, prompting Nenetzin, who sensed her consternation, to embrace her and allay her fears. Now, now, Pelaxilla. You make too much of it. I made a reckless statement -too harsh. Our lady knows you would never intentionally offend her. Tomorrow you will find her well-composed again.

While Nenetzin was calming a frightened Pelaxilla, Tlalalca took her customary afternoon bath in spring waters piped through stone conduits into a compartment adjacent to her private chamber. Her tub was a squared cistern into which steps had been carved so that she could climb into its depth and immerse herself to the level of her neck. She cleansed herself with the rich lather formed by cakes made from the root of the copalxocotl tree, and when she was finished emerged from her tub into large towels held forth by Xoyo. These she wrapped over her and then entered her chamber where she sat down on the cushions placed abundantly above the floor. Xoyo sank to her knees and began to brush Tlalalca’s glossy raven hair. She noticed a disquietude not common for her charge.

My lady is disturbed, she remarked, giving voice to her observation.

Does it show? Tlalalca replied. I do not hide my feelings well. When I am troubled, people see it instantly. It’s not befitting for an empress to reveal herself so.

May I ask what the problem is?

Pelaxilla thinks too highly of him. It is very upsetting to me.

You mean Lord Ahuitzotl?

He is not the man for her.

He is quite good-looking. When I was younger, I would fancy him myself.

He cannot be trusted. Have you seen how he glares at my Lord Tizoc? He does not look upon him with respect, or with joy, but rather with a cold, contemptuous gaze. There is cruelty in his eyes. He thinks too much and speaks too little, and I have fears over what thoughts he may have. I find it very discomfiting.

Perhaps my lady misreads him.

If so, I should never again be able to rely on my perceptions, for they confirm this to me.

How can you know?

What I say about him I cannot prove. They are things I feel. He bears a grudge against my husband which is often reflected in his behavior. I was told of the extreme vehemence he displayed when the council selected Tizoc as Revered Speaker. They say he flew into a rage and bolted from the scene like a savage beast when its choice was disclosed to him. Such conduct is most unbecoming. And to his brother. To this day whatever communication exists between them is of an official nature only. They do not socialize. There is no cordiality between them, and even though he resides in this palace, he keeps his distance from us. If only I could be certain of his intentions. I fear he means Tizoc harm.

Surely you are wrong, my Lady. One would never suspect it looking at him.

It’s as if his attractiveness masked his true evil purposes all the more. Yet I tell you my fears are not groundless. To think he should capture the heart of our dear Pelaxilla. Even this amounts to a derogation of Tizoc, for she is pledged to him as one of his mistresses. It’s almost more than I can bear.

This is not a one-sided affair, my Lady. He loves her too.

He does? I was not aware of it.

I have not only seen it in him, but have heard others speak of it. Those eyes you say glare so contemptuously at Lord Tizoc gaze quite differently upon Pelaxilla. Indeed, they shine like stars when they behold her. He is often at a loss of words when with her, and has been clumsy in his attempts to humor her. Surely these are symptoms of Xochiquetzal’s affliction. He is with her on many afternoons -they frequently stroll in the royal garden. From what I make of it, I would say that he loves Pelaxilla more than she loves him."

What a revelation you have given me. But then, she is such an adorable child, so lovely and charming, and of such cheerful disposition. How could any man resist her? Do you think I frightened her today?

If you did, it would matter little. One loving glance from you will mend things for her again.

Yes, it is amazing what a position of authority can do. I shall put that to work for me next time we see our little flower.

What does my lady mean?

You’re convinced that Ahuitzotl loves her?

I’m certain of it.

Then we shall make use of his enrapture. Pelaxilla will find out for us what he is thinking. Would not a man in love give his sweetheart any answer she desired, especially if pressed?

Possibly, but isn’t this kind of unseemly?

Unseemly? Tlalalca hesitated as she gave this some weight. I suppose it is. But we do have an important purpose behind this -perhaps nothing less than the safety of our Revered Speaker. I should think that would be all the justification we need. I am correct in assuming we are together in this and that I can count on your cooperation, am I not?

Xoyo, who had a decided distaste for court intrigue, found difficulty in answering. She felt herself placed as an unwilling accomplice in a scheme she wanted no part of by virtue of her being the queen’s attendant. What choice was there for her?

Yes, my Lady, she consented.

Good. Then I expect we shall soon discover whether my fears are warranted.

By this time, Xoyo had finished preening Tlalalca who expressed a desire for her usual late afternoon nap. The old woman gently assisted her into the multi-layered mats making up the bed and covered her with a single thin cotton sheet that sufficed as a blanket in the day’s comfortable temperature. Then she went about wiping the water from the floor and picking up the towels, and when done, she quietly slipped away leaving Tlalalca in reposed slumber.

IV

In a magnificent profusion of color, nobles from throughout the realm, accompanied by their ministers, ambassadors, counselors, and commanders, stood resplendently arrayed in their finest attire and adorned with their richest jewelry as they met in the reception hall of the royal palace. They were in their feathered tilmantlis, embroidered breechcloths, in ocelot sandals, and in brilliantly plumed headdresses, each adapting to his particular tastes in color and material. Their ornamentation of gold, silver, jade, and other gemstones shimmered at every movement. They constituted a wondrous spectacle, and as was the fashion, their dress and adornment represented their social rankings in the cities and provinces from where they came.

On a raised platform at the end of the hall sat Tizoc in his Eagle and Jaguar Throne. He wore a turquoise blue cape distinguishing him as the Revered Speaker, monarch of the nation, and representing the color of Huitzilopochtli. His jewelry included earplugs of gold and jade and an emerald nose insertion worn by all kings as a sign of their direct linkage to the gods. His headdress was made from feathers of the quetzal bird and from his neck hung an emerald medallion. He was an imposing figure, and anyone present would have readily sorted him out as the leading personage in the assembly. He was alone.

Below the platform on Tizoc’s right stood Cihuacoatl, wearing a jaguar skin tilmantli and holding a long staff, the symbols of his office. Beside him were the leading officials of Tenochtitlan, including two of its chief priests. To the left was Ahuitzotl, austere in his lack of ornamentation although his clothing was as fine as anyone’s, who represented the city’s army. He was accompanied by Tlohtzin, his battle-hardened vice-commander. Among them, Tizoc had all his key civilian, religious, and military advisors available to give him appropriate counsel should he request it.

In the gathering grouped by regional realms, closest to Tizoc stood the delegation from Texcoco, headed by its famed king, Nezahualpilli, and that of Tlacopan, led by its own ruler, Chimalpopoca. These were the cities which, along with Tenochtitlan, made up the Triple Alliance that dominated the empire, a compact now dated almost sixty years and having been formed when the empire was in its incipient stages and struggling to rule Anahuac. In addition, the remaining major cities of Anahuac -Azcapotzalco, Chalco, Coyoacan, Culhuacan, Iztapalapa, Otombo, Tecpatepec, Tenayuca, and Tepeyac among them- had their agents in attendance. In all, the assembly represented the leading administrative and political centers which comprised the realm.

Tizoc motioned his hand to signal Cihuacoatl into commencing with the proceedings. After obtaining silence from the gathering by tapping his staff repeatedly on the floor, the minister called on a priest to recite the usual opening incantations, its purpose aimed at securing the necessary approval of the gods, for no action contemplated by men could proceed without their consent. When the orisons were completed, Cihuacoatl took a roll call of the officials present while a scribe faithfully recorded this in his texts. That done, the floor was ready to hear Tizoc’s words.

We are met here to bring to a decision certain problems that remain unsolved for us, he spoke out. First, and obviously most crucial, is the matter of Toluca. We have Tecolotl, the ambassador of Toluca, with us so that he might know what is decided here today. As you know, the Tolucans have taken it upon themselves to challenge our dominion over them and are refusing to consign further tributes to us. These are actions which we, if we are to retain any kind of credibility as a power, to say nothing of our standing with the gods, cannot ignore. Not only is this an affront to our authority, but it also extends a dangerous precedence to be emulated by our other subjugated states. That the Tolucans must be punished for their insolence is certain. The question is to what degree. Let us consider what responses should be directed against them. Clearly we can move our armies upon them –that would be the easiest- but is this the wisest course to pursue?

Answering first was Ahuitzotl. Why should there be any doubt about what we will do? Toluca has presented us with what, by any account, must be seen as a serious threat –an insidious erosive influence which, while not that significant for one city, can rapidly accelerate into a viable large-scale insurrection. We are only as strong as the hold we keep over our individual states. I see this rebellion as nothing less than a well-calculated assault directed at our very foundations, and it is imperative on our part to make the message clear that we will not stand idly by and watch subversive maneuvers disintegrate the bonds which hold the realm together. I say the punishment against the Tolucans must be severe. Since they, by their actions, have made themselves an example for other vassal states to follow, so let us, by our actions, make them an example of the retribution in store for anyone who defies us.

A commotion of nods and mumblings from the floor indicated that there was general agreement to this.

So what is your proposal? asked Tizoc.

To destroy them utterly, declared Ahuitzotl. To devastate their city, destroy its army, and enslave its inhabitants, so that all who see and hear of this will have a permanent imprint of our fury lest they likewise contemplate to rise against us.

Ahuitzotl, smirking with satisfaction, glanced toward Tecolotl and saw that the red-faced ambassador was visibly shaken.

Next to speak was Nezahualpilli. Let Lord Ahuitzotl be reminded that one cannot collect tributes from the dead. We do not dispute that Toluca poses a threat to our dominance, but it must be recognized that the payment of tribute also supports our institutions and is equally important to us. Toluca has supplied us abundantly with these in the past. Shall we now cut off the hand which sustains us because it occasionally presents itself as a fist in anger? I agree Toluca must be made an example, but even in making examples, we can temper our vengeance with some common sense. Since we already know we can destroy it, who shall we demonstrate this to? Ourselves? Do not forget that the Tolucans have previously served us well as allies and, while their present conduct requires our castigation, this should mitigate against their outright slaughter. So let us do what is necessary, but no more. Let the Tolucans feel our punishment, but let it be inflicted upon them by a means of alternatives that will be difficult, yet tolerable, for them to accept.

Again a murmur arose in the assembly suggesting that many supported Nezahualpilli’s position. The Texcocan’s reputation was well demonstrated. Tizoc was favorably impressed; Ahuitzotl questioned his own course of action; Tecolotl breathed a little easier.

What might those alternatives be? Tizoc inquired.

One that comes to mind is we should demand that their ruler, and all the nobles who stood behind his cause, surrender themselves into captivity to us, upon the choice of seeing their city taken. For them to submit to this would be a greater demonstration of our power than any army in the field.

And if they refuse? Would we then destroy them?

We would then have to, for your word must be kept. But let us be clear on the advantage this proposal offers. The Tolucans know full well they have offended us and are expecting our retribution. Whatever misgivings many of their lords may have had about their venture, they now believe it is too late for amends. Because they see no other option, all are united against us. But with our proposition, they would again be confronted with a choice and their unity will falter. What previously involved them all now only pertains to a select few who will find themselves isolated from their subjects. Those who entered the scheme with reservations will find their apprehensions greatly enhanced. If they now choose to doom their city, we can exercise our punitive measures without constraint.

I see, said Tizoc. Place the decision leading to our retribution into their own hands. We acquit ourselves of the consequences because they chose their fate.

"We can blame them for their own folly. It is a favorable situation for us –demonstrating our willingness to avoid any carnage.

Tizoc and Nezahualpilli understood each other. They were men of an intellectual bent who held similar interests on a variety of subjects. Both enjoyed reputations as master builders, although Tizoc’s projects expressed more of a religious proclivity and included such works as the Great Temple, the combat stone, and the giant calendar which would be part of the new temple’s fixtures, while Nezahualpilli were primarily civic in nature involving the construction of aqueducts, dams, and palaces. Both men enlarged their royal gardens and boasted of the abundant plant life contained in them, and the bloom of a newly bred flower would have been a source of pleasure for either of them. Both enjoyed literature, poetry, and the arts, and in their leisure time often surrounded themselves with men and women of erudition which, in great measure, secluded them from the everyday mundane tasks of state administration. Yet there were some differences between them, and of these the major one was that Nezahualpilli was the heir of a city-state which, through the efforts of his scholarly father, Nezahualcoyotl, had acquired renown throughout Anahuac for its learning, cultural refinement, and artistic achievement, while Tizoc was the inheritor of a city-state which was built on, and placed its greatest value on, military prowess. Tizoc may have envied Nezahualpilli.

What other alternatives might we consider? Tizoc asked the Texcocan who had clearly taken the center stage in the conference.

I recognize that this may not be deemed severe enough in relation to their offense against us, but we could allow the Tolucans to atone for their transgression by imposing increased tributes assessed over a specified period of time.

This time the clamor evidenced a strong disapproval.

Why should they want to do this when it is our tributes that allegedly gave cause for their rebellion in the first place?

Facing possible destruction, their resourcefulness may surprise us.

That may be, but I see little promise in this proposal. It has a lackluster quality about it, one which fails to impress, and there remains the requirement that an example must be made of them. This conjures up expectations for the dramatic. The terms must be sufficiently high to lend an awe-inspiring aspect to our power.

Nezahualpilli knew what Tizoc was saying. The Tolucans had initiated their revolt before the eyes of all the states under Mexica domination, and whatever countermeasures the Mexica applied, they were necessarily before an audience. The object was not merely to humble Toluca, but to assure everyone of an ability to do it with facility. This kind of demonstration required a sensationalism that would leave a lasting impression on an observer.

Tizoc next scanned the hall seeking out anyone who wished to add to the subject at hand and, finding none, brought the issue to a conclusion. Of the proposals offered, he said, how many favor Lord Ahuitzotl’s course?

Approximately a third of the assembly voiced its agreement.

And Lord Nezahualpilli’s?

A resounding majority gave its consent. The Texcocan had won the day.

I concur, stated Tizoc. Even at this point, he could have rejected the measure, having that authority, but he was convinced it