When Malinalli, a member of the tribe conquered by the Aztec warriors, first meets the conquistador Hern/m Cort6s and becomes his interpreter, she--like many-believes him to be the reincarnated forefather god of her tribe. Naturally,she assumes she must welcome him, and help him destroy the Aztec empire and free her people. The two fall passionately in love, but Malinalli soon realizes that Cortes's thirst for conquest is all too human, and that he is willing to destroy anyone, even his own men--even their own love.

Bursting with lyricism and vivid imagery, Malirtche finally unveils the truth behind this legendary and tragic love affair.