In the heart of the Aztec empire, there lived two friends named Tlacaelel and Xochipilli. They grew up together and did everything together, from hunting to playing games. They were inseparable, and their bond was unbreakable.

One day, tragedy struck Tlacaelel’s family. His younger brother fell ill and passed away. Tlacaelel was devastated and could not stop mourning his loss. Xochipilli knew how much his friend loved his brother, and he wanted to do something to comfort him.

Xochipilli knew of the good spirit called Santa Muerte, who was said to be the protector of the dead. He suggested to Tlacaelel that they go to the shrine of Santa Muerte and give her gifts. Tlacaelel was hesitant at first, as he was not sure if it was appropriate to honor a spirit that he was not familiar with. But Xochipilli convinced him that Santa Muerte was just another manifestation of Mictecacihuatl, whom they both already honored.

Together, they made their way to the shrine of Santa Muerte, which was located on the outskirts of the city. They brought with them a basket of gifts consisting of flowers, incense, and a tiny clay statue of Tlacaelel’s brother. They placed the statue on the altar and lit the incense, all while chanting in honor of Santa Muerte. Tlacaelel felt a sense of peace wash over him as he poured out his heart to Holy Death.

As they were leaving the shrine, they heard a voice calling out to them. They turned around and saw an old woman with a skeletal face, dressed in a white cloak. Tlacaelel and Xochipilli were both frightened, as they recognized her as the personification of Santa Muerte. But the old woman spoke kindly to them, telling them that she had heard their petitions and was pleased with their gifts. She said that Tlacaelel’s brother was now in her care and that he would be guided safely to the next world and eventually to Creator who was waiting for him.

Tlacaelel and Xochipilli were both amazed and grateful for Santa Muerte’s words of comfort. They thanked her and as they went on their way they prayed to Creator thanking Him for all His provisions. After arriving at Tlacaelel’s home, he told his family all that took place and Tlacaelel’s family was comforted very grateful. After this, both Tlacaelel and Xochipilli’s families made regular pilgrimages to Santa Muerte’s shrine.

In the end, Tlacaelel realized that he had learned an important lesson about the power of friendship and the importance of honoring those who have passed away. And as he looked up at the sky, he whispered a silent chant of thanks to Creator and Santa Muerte for guiding him through his darkest hours.