First World – Black World (Nihodilhil)

The First World was Nihodilhil, the Black World. It was small, enclosed, and heavy with darkness. Four sacred clouds floated here — black, white, yellow, and blue — each carrying the seeds of what was to come. The air was thick with mist, and the ground was damp. No sun, no moon, no stars lit the sky; only the faint glow of sacred sparks gave form to the beings who lived here.

The inhabitants were insect beings: Ant People, Dragonflies, Locusts, and Beetles. They moved restlessly in the shadows, trying to find order among themselves. The Holy People were present too, including First Man and First Woman, carrying sacred knowledge, fire, and tools in their bundles.

But the Black World was not at peace. Quarrels broke out — over space, over jealousy, over pride. And in the midst of it all was Coyote, sly and restless, quick to challenge, eager to stir conflict where there was already unease. His presence made harmony impossible. The Holy People decided they must leave. With prayer and guidance, they found a path upward, and the beings began their journey to the next world.