The Black Pillar of Crimson Nails
Content
## Overview A grim tally-system and monument located within the city that tracks the progress of the genocidal war. It is a black column of ebony standing behind the prince's dais. ## Mechanics and Rules * **Function:** For every member of the opposing clan killed, a heavy copper nail with a bright scarlet head is driven into the polished surface of the pillar. * **Symbolism:** It represents the singular focus of the inhabitants' lives—the eventual total extinction of their rivals. Hundreds of red dots scar its surface. ## Narrative Significance The pillar serves as a macabre scoreboard. After the final battle in the throne room, Olmec exults that twenty more nails will be driven into the pillar, marking the end of the Xotalanc clan. It stands as a testament to the city's obsession with death.
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Social Structures
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Chicmec
A scout for the Tecuhltli clan whose death serves as a narrative catalyst.
Characters
The Crag
Natural Landmark
Locations
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