Olmec's Rack
Type
Torture Device
Abilities
- •Forces the victim to remain perfectly still to avoid being crushed by the iron ball
- •Causes the head to be pierced by spikes if the neck muscles fail
Usage Costs
Slow, agonizing death for the occupant.
Origin Story
Created by the Tecuhltli for the slow execution of prisoners.
Power Source
Gravity and mechanical tension.
Current Status
Located in a chamber on the lower levels of Tecuhltli; Olmec was recently freed from it by Conan.
Plot Relevance
Conan discovers Olmec bound to this device, revealing Tascela's betrayal and the prince's temporary downfall.
Physical Description
A low rack-like frame of iron with a bed of iron spikes for the head and a harness connected to a huge iron ball suspended above the victim's breast.
Timeline
Discovery of the Prince
Conan finds Olmec bound to the rack, suffering the torture intended for his enemies.
The Release
Conan cuts the ropes holding Olmec, allowing the prince to escape the crushing weight of the iron ball.
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