The Crawler
Content
## Overview A legendary horror brought up from the black tunnels below the catacombs by the Xotalancas to aid them in the feud. ## Mechanics and Rules * **Nature:** A monstrous reptilian entity with a head as broad as a crocodile's and down-curving fangs. It is described as an "ophidian shape" that is cold as ice to the touch. * **Behavior:** It slithers and rustles, bringing a chill to the air. It is capable of trailing victims to the very doors of their citadel. * **Fate:** It was mortally wounded by Conan on a winding stair and eventually crawled back to the Xotalanc guardroom to die. ## Narrative Significance The Crawler represents the desperate lengths the Xotalancas went to in the final days of the feud, utilizing biological horrors from the city's depths to supplement their dwindling numbers.
Category
Threats
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