Mictecacihuatl

The conquest of Mexico flooded Mictlan with countless souls, but this flood waned to a trickle as a new faith replaced the old. The funeral rites and grave goods Mictlantecuhtli and his Queen were accustomed to fell out of favor and Mictlan began to falter. But death is patient, and the Lord and Lady of Mictlan pondered their lot in the frozen darkness until Mictecacihuatl struck upon the solution. Death was no longer to be feared, but celebrated. She whispered to her followers above and “Dia de los Muertos” or “The Day of the Dead” was born.

Mictecacihuatl reveled with her newfound host of painted celebrants as new offerings began to flood the underworld. Mictecacihuatl is now known as “Lady of Death” or “La Calavera Catrina,” and it did not take long for her popularity to eclipse that of her beloved husband as the Lord of Mictlan.

The Day of the Dead has spread beyond Mexico, and with it, the skeletal grip of its lady. Mexico, the Americas, and beyond have become Mictecacihuatl’s playground and none are foolish enough to challenge her will from October 31st to November 2nd, for on those days Mictlan seethes with power as mountains of offerings are pilled at Mictecacihuatl’s feet.

Reveling in her newfound might, Mictecacihuatl has not abandoned her traditional duties. She lovingly embraces all who emerge from the world above to take their place in her dark realm. But woe to those who defy her will, for she is Lady and mistress of death and save for a brief respite during Dia de los Muertos, the souls of the dead are hers. None must defy her will, attempt to steal the bones of the dead, or try to escape her icy grasp, lest they face the blood-spattered talons and burning gaze of her beloved husband.

Mictecacihuatl’s Scions promote death, darkness, and the Underworld, and work hard to expand their mistress’ domain. They are members of enigmatic death squads, maintaining the status quo between the Underworld and the heavens above, organizers perpetuating Day of the Dead festivities, educators and lobbyists for indigenous cultural awareness, talented morticians specializing in Mēxihcah funeral rites, Day of the Dead revelers paying homage to their mistress, and fearless spelunkers who call darkness their home. Foremost among Mictecacihuatl’s Scions is Santa Muerte. Drawing the adoration, prayers, and offerings of millions, Santa Muerte paved the way for her fellow Scions to tap the untrammeled power of death year round. Mictecacihuatl praises her in public, but some have begun to question whether Santa Muerte’s popularity may eclipse that of Mictecacihuatl…