Memory Fragments: Probity

The Owl & The Bat

Mictlantecutli & Mictecacihuatl. These were known as "The Owl & The Bat," respectively
Both, charged with the eternal festivities of the "Eleven Dances of Bones," remain to this day
A festival to mourn the death of infants, where their bones return to the stars collectively
"Place them in a windowless house." The Owl & The Bat said. "Rest is but a dance away"

The first dance starts, and it is every bit a spectacle as the lives it once allowed its step
Carefree and full of vigor, the small steps of a child are for everyone to join and enjoy
"May the owl turn his head all the way around. For we dance in circles around its pep"
"May the bat hear even our smallest steps. For infant bones rattle as they dance with joy"

The second dance begins, and the growing crush of bones is heard throughout the night
As the elderly join in, they too dance for the memory and pain of their children's offspring
"May the owl look at my weary bone. For it is an old custom that even I can indulge in delight"
"May the bat hear the dust of bone flutter. For behind the curtain lies a child's playful coloring"

The third and fourth dance are next. A duo to symbolize a birth short-lived, yet long cherished
The fathers and mothers step in to dance. In anger and sorrow, but also joy and serenity
"May the owl see our pain and relief. For we show our soul to the ones who suddenly perished"
"May the bat hear our cry of melancholy. For our children's memory is a step into serendipity"

The fifth dance is upcoming. A change in tempo, a continuation slowed for appreciation
The siblings left behind join now. For their brothers and sisters, they dance a solemn piece
"May the owl discern our younger bones. We are not them; he knows our tranquil reflection"
"May the bat hear our distinct steps. A slow reverberance to put to sleep those in peace"

On the sixth and seventh dances, all have said their respective hellos and goodbyes
The families all continue to dance as their bones rattle and candles are lit for them
"May the owl skim through our fiery light. For our love for them, like stars, never dies"
"May the bat hear the burning of a candid night. Where fire burns brightest, ash is to come"

After the eighth dance has ended, bones finally lie burned, crushed, and mourned over
This was the dance of acceptance and separation. A movement between planes of life
"May the owl focus its sight on our final act. For we shall dance away their crossover"
"May the bat hear them coming. Into the windowless house, where death sees no strife"

At the ninth and tenth dances, the owl and the bat make themselves known in mortal
A couple of dances to receive them. To let them know, and guide them to the house
"May the owl watch our guidance. For our children await the eyes who shine a starry portal"
"May the bat hear our guidance. For our children await the ears who hear their arouse"

Finally, as the eleventh dance is about to begin, the owl and the bat enter the house of bones
Inside, a rattling is not heard nor seen. A secret meeting between deities and children to play
"As the owl of death, I shall see to your safe journey. I shall watch over the empty tombstones"
"As the bat of death, I shall hear your every step. I shall lend an ear to you along your way"