"This book discusses the battles between the Spanish explorers and the Aztecs--battles that culminated in the ruin of a civilization. Alternating between Aztec and Spanish history, it discusses events and motivations on each side and includes a thorough account of the struggle between Cortés and Montezuma"--Provided by publisher.

The flight of the feathered serpent -- The Spanish invasion -- The flight from Aztlán -- The voyage of Francisco de Córdoba -- A stone rising from the water -- The Grijalva expedition -- The road to empire -- In search of fame and fortune -- Divine dedication -- Tales of the bearded men -- The empire that was Montezuma's -- Native alliances -- The long road to Tlaxcala -- The massacre at Cholula -- Into the realm of enchantment -- The reins of power -- The struggle for control of Mexico -- The rage of the sun god -- La noche triste -- A foregone conclusion.