Techotl
Role
A guide and ally from the Tecuhltli clan.
Secrets
Knows the secret paths and the history of the feud between the clans.
Dialogue
Staccato, frantic, and filled with warnings about the city's dangers.
Appearance
Slightly above middle height, very dark skin, gaunt with knots of muscle. He has long, lank black hair and wears a silk clout and leather girdle. His eyes have a wild, mad glare.
Background
Born in the castle of Tecuhltli 35 years ago; he has never left the city.
Identified
true
Motivations
To survive the Xotalanc attacks and bring powerful new allies to Prince Olmec.
Personality
Highly superstitious, fearful, and prone to hysterical exultation. He is intensely loyal to his clan and deeply traumatized by the city's perpetual warfare.
Competencies
Stealth, knowledge of Xuchotl's layout, and dagger combat.
Plot Relevance
He rescues Valeria from her confusion and leads the protagonists toward the Tecuhltli stronghold.
First Appearance
The Halls of Science in Xuchotl
Timeline
Discovery of Chicmec
Techotl finds his companion dead and is nearly killed by the Burning Skull.
Meeting Valeria
He is saved by Valeria and recognizes her as a potential ally.
Battle with Xotalancas
He fights alongside Valeria and Conan against a Xotalanc ambush.
Leading the Way
He guides the protagonists through the Halls of Silence toward Tecuhltli.
Final Stand and Death
Techotl tries to stop Olmec from kidnapping Valeria, is stabbed, and dies after warning Conan.
Explore more
Chicmec
A scout for the Tecuhltli clan whose death serves as a narrative catalyst.
Characters
Valeria Discovers the City of Xuchotl
manuscript
Plot & Structure
The Great Hall System
## Overview The **Great Hall System** is the primary architectural and navigational artery of the city of **Xuchotl**. Unlike traditional cities, Xuchotl is constructed as a single, massive, interconnected structure under one roof, with the Great Hall serving as the equivalent of a main street. ## Mechanics and Rules * **Orientation:** The hall traverses the entire city from the **North Gate** to the **South Gate**. * **Dimensions:** It is described as being of "heroic proportions," with a length so vast that its vista grows indistinct in the distance. * **Construction:** The floor is composed of square tiles of a red stone that smolders with the reflection of flames. The walls are made of green jade, and the vaulted ceiling is crafted from lapis lazuli. * **Illumination:** The hall is lit by clusters of **Green Fire-Jewels** set into the ceiling, which glow with a poisonous radiance, supplemented by crystalline skylights that allow filtered sunlight to enter. ## Narrative Significance The Great Hall represents the only major open space within the claustrophobic, palace-like city. It acts as the boundary between the warring factions of **Tecuhltli** and **Xotalanc**. Techotl notes that the city gates, which terminate this hall, have not been opened for fifty years, emphasizing the isolation of the inhabitants.
World & Mechanics