The Black Altar
Type
Religious Artifact
Secrets
The stone is veined with metal or properties that complete magical circuits.
Abilities
- •Acts as a conductor for the Witch-wand's crimson fire
- •Serves as the focal point for the ritual to draw the essence of life from a victim into Tascela
Usage Costs
Requires a human sacrifice to function for its primary purpose.
Origin Story
Used by Tascela for her life-extending sacrifices.
Power Source
Sacrificial magic and the conductive properties of its stone.
Restrictions
Located in the throne room of Tecuhltli.
Current Status
Located in the throne room, surrounded by the bodies of the slain.
Plot Relevance
The site where Valeria was nearly sacrificed and where the final confrontation with Tolkemec took place.
Physical Description
A curious altar of glistening ebon stone, surrounded by seven black candles in golden candlesticks.
Timeline
The Near Sacrifice
Valeria is placed on the altar by Tascela to have her life essence drained.
The Circuit Completion
The Witch-wand's fire strikes the altar, completing a circuit that kills those nearby.
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