The Eye
Type
Magical Artifact
Abilities
- •Allows the guards of Tecuhltli to observe the hallway outside the Door of the Eagle in secret
Origin Story
Part of the original architecture of Xuchotl.
Power Source
Optical mirrors and crystal panes.
Restrictions
Fixed in the wall near the Door of the Eagle.
Current Status
Functional and located in the guardroom of Tecuhltli.
Plot Relevance
Used by the Tecuhltli to identify visitors and threats before opening the main gate.
Physical Description
A complicated contrivance of mirrors arranged so that a narrow, crystal-paned slot in the wall can be looked through from within without being discernible from without.
Timeline
Observation of the Strangers
The guards use the Eye to inspect Conan and Valeria before admitting them to Tecuhltli.
The Final Warning
A guard looks through the Eye and sees the Xotalancas preparing to use the Pipes of Madness.
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