Gods of Jade and Shadow(103)

tun—Stone. Also, year. Stones are associated with time or cycles, since they are used to commemorate events.

Uay Chivo—Literally “ghost goat.” An evil sorcerer who can take the form of a goat. In Mayan tales, sorcerers can take multiple forms including cats or dogs.

Xaman Ek—The god of the North Star, who guided merchants.

Xibalba—The Mayan Underworld, full of terrifying sights, such as a river of blood and a river of pus. The Yucatec Mayans referred to the Underworld as Mitnal. Owls or dogs are associated with death, hence the messengers of Xibalba are four fearsome owls (Chabi-Tucur and Huracán-Tucur are mentioned in this novel).

x’kau—A common black bird, similar to a magpie. Quiscalus mexicanus, in Spanish zanate.

Xtabay—A mythological creature that has the appearance of a beautiful woman who seduces men and drives them to their death.

zaca—A drink mixed with ground corn, used in religious offerings.