The Feathered Serpent
The Feathered Serpent — an illustrated stories story. 10 illustrated pages, free to read on Wonder Books.
Page 1
Long ago, in the heart of the verdant lands of the Aztec Empire, lived a wise and revered king named Topiltzin Ce Acatl Quetzalcoatl. Unlike the warmongering rulers of neighboring tribes, Quetzalcoatl, which meant “Feathered Serpent”, sought peace and prosperity for his people. He was a tall, slender man, with a noble bearing, his face etched with kindness and wisdom. He abhorred human sacrifice, promoting instead offerings of flowers, incense, and birds. His reign was a golden age, marked by bountiful harvests, magnificent artistry, and a deep connection to the divine.
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But such prosperity breeds envy. Tezcatlipoca, the god of darkness and sorcery, watched with disdain as Quetzalcoatl's influence grew. He plotted to overthrow the benevolent king and plunge the empire into chaos. Tezcatlipoca was a formidable deity, cloaked in shadow, with obsidian eyes that pierced the soul. He summoned his demonic minions and concocted a cunning plan to corrupt Quetzalcoatl's pure heart. First, he would tempt the king with earthly desires, and then he would sow discord among his loyal subjects, making them question his leadership.
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Tezcatlipoca, disguised as an old merchant, approached Quetzalcoatl with a gift: a mirror. The king, who had never paid attention to his appearance, gazed into the glass and saw for the first time the lines of age etched upon his face. The merchant slyly suggested a remedy: a potent elixir that would restore his youth and vigor. Quetzalcoatl, momentarily succumbing to vanity, drank the brew. The potion, laced with dark magic, clouded his mind and weakened his resolve. He became susceptible to further temptations.
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Next, Tezcatlipoca sent his daughter, the beautiful Xochiquetzal, goddess of flowers and pleasure, to seduce the king. Quetzalcoatl, under the influence of the elixir, found himself drawn to her irresistible charm. Xochiquetzal, with her radiant smile and captivating eyes, weaved a spell of enchantment around him. He indulged in feasts, dances, and other worldly pleasures, neglecting his duties and distancing himself from his people. The kingdom, once flourishing under his wise rule, began to show signs of neglect.
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As Quetzalcoatl wallowed in earthly delights, Tezcatlipoca stirred up discontent among his people. He whispered lies in their ears, questioning the king's judgment and accusing him of abandoning his responsibilities. The priests, who had once revered Quetzalcoatl for his rejection of human sacrifice, now grumbled about his decadent lifestyle. The warriors, eager for conquest, criticized his peaceful ways. The common folk, burdened by the neglect of the kingdom, began to murmur in protest. The seeds of rebellion were sown.
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One fateful night, Tezcatlipoca orchestrated a grand spectacle. He threw a magnificent feast, inviting all the nobles and warriors of the kingdom. He then offered Quetzalcoatl a powerful pulque, a fermented drink, laced with even more potent magic. The king, already weakened by his indulgences, drank deeply. The pulque stripped away his inhibitions and unleashed his darkest impulses. He danced wildly, sang bawdy songs, and behaved in a manner unbecoming a king. His subjects were shocked and disgusted.
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Shame and remorse washed over Quetzalcoatl the next morning as the effects of the pulque wore off. He realized the extent of his folly and the damage he had inflicted upon his kingdom. He had betrayed his people, neglected his duties, and dishonored his name. He knew he could no longer rule. With a heavy heart, he resolved to abdicate his throne and embark on a journey of atonement. He gathered his loyal followers and prepared to leave the city of Tollan, never to return.
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As Quetzalcoatl and his followers journeyed eastward, they encountered many trials and tribulations. Tezcatlipoca, relentless in his pursuit, sent his demonic minions to harass them. They faced treacherous storms, scorching deserts, and hostile tribes. But Quetzalcoatl remained steadfast in his resolve, leading his people with courage and compassion. He taught them valuable lessons about humility, perseverance, and the importance of inner peace. He slowly began to regain their trust and respect.
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Finally, after many years of wandering, Quetzalcoatl reached the eastern coast. As he stood on the shore, gazing out at the vast ocean, he knew his journey was nearing its end. He gathered his followers one last time and bid them farewell. He told them to remember his teachings and to always strive for peace and harmony. Then, he built a raft of serpent skins, adorned it with feathers and jewels, and sailed eastward into the rising sun. Some say he died, and his heart rose into the heavens to become the planet Venus.
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Others say that Quetzalcoatl promised to return one day, when his people needed him most. He would come from the east, bringing with him a new era of enlightenment and prosperity. And so, the legend of the Feathered Serpent lived on, passed down through generations. A reminder that even the wisest and most virtuous can succumb to temptation, but that redemption is always possible. And that the pursuit of peace, wisdom and art is more valuable than conquest and war. The tale would be told until the end of days.
About this story
- Audience: kids (ages 6–12)