The Fall of Quetzalcoatl at Tula

In the golden age of Tula, Quetzalcoatl ruled as priest-king. Under his guidance, the Toltecs prospered. He taught them crafts, agriculture, and the worship of the gods through prayers rather than human sacrifice.

But Tezcatlipoca, the Smoking Mirror, grew jealous. He descended to Tula in disguise, carrying a mirror and a jar of pulque.

"Lord Quetzalcoatl," said the stranger, "I bring you medicine for the ailment that troubles you."

Quetzalcoatl was indeed weary from fasting and penance. He looked in the mirror and saw himself aged and worn. "What is this medicine?" he asked.

Tezcatlipoca offered the pulque. "Just a sip will restore your strength."

One sip became many. Quetzalcoatl grew drunk for the first time in his life. In his stupor, he summoned his sister Quetzalpetlatl and committed the sin of incest.

When dawn came and sobriety returned, Quetzalcoatl was consumed by shame. He could no longer face his people. He gathered his treasures, set them aflame, and departed toward the east.

At the shore of the divine sea, Quetzalcoatl dressed in his feathered finery and set himself ablaze. His heart rose into the sky and became the Morning Star. He vowed to return one day and reclaim his kingdom.

The Toltec golden age ended with his departure, and the darker gods held sway over the land.