Two Eyes Cenote The Menu

Suzuki Harunobu, Woodblock print. Music, dance and drama. Two Miko (shrine-attendant) dancers in a Shinto shrine holding gohei (purification strips) and suzu (bells).

Miko-san ga yattekita
The shrine maiden has arrived

A chance encounter had given Keiko the fortuitous opportunity to connect with an empire for a grand celebration. The Miko traveled West along a trader’s footpath until the mountain forest transformed into dry chaparral. There, the impression of the great Two-Eyed Cenote drew her in. She arrived poised and elegant; a pearl among the dry hills.

She had fastidiously bathed in the coldwater river of Hokkyokusei-sama’s valley until her furs shone a virgin white. A wreath of evergreen sprigs, cut from the Akai Ki, adorned her neck. In her possession were three parcels of fine fur wrappings filled with gifts, supplies, and formal wear. The young Miko, raised to know all the pieces of a ceremonial society, was in her element. However, a shard of her heart longed for her simple temple in the wild garden of her deity.

She arrived at the great entrance, which was abuzz with activity. There, a familiar face waited in welcome.

Keiko placed her belongings neatly to the side. “Konnichi wa, Eset-san,” she said, tone smooth, and dipped into a slow bow.