Chotalcoatl

Chotalcoatl has been reborn as a city of obsidian and fire, where volcanic power fuels both its industry and spiritual practices. Its location atop the Shiantun caldera makes it a center of craftsmanship and ritual, embodying a culture that thrives on the balance between creation and destruction. With its dramatic landscape and vibrant traditions, it stands as one of Northeast Kirishin’s most iconic cities.

Industry & Trade

Obsidian Craftsmanship: Chotalcoatl is famed for its obsidian blades, mirrors, and ceremonial artifacts, exported to neighboring regions
Agriculture: Fertile volcanic soil supports the growth of corn, beans, and cacao, forming the backbone of the local diet.
Magha-Infused Goods: The city produces Magha-enhanced jewelry and tools, blending magical properties with artistic designs.
Tourism and Pilgrimage: Pilgrims from across Kirishin visit the Black Sun Pyramid, contributing to the city’s economy by purchasing ritual items and offerings.

Infrastructure

Terraced Design: Built into the volcanic caldera rim, Chotalcoatl’s structures are arranged in concentric terraces. Each terrace serves a specific purpose: residential zones, workshops, temples, and markets. Lava channels from the volcano are directed through engineered stone aqueducts, powering steam forges and heating communal baths.
Obsidian Roadways: Roads paved with obsidian slabs reflect sunlight during the day and moonlight at night, creating a shimmering effect. Bridges span across lava vents and steam geysers, allowing safe passage between districts.
Steam-Powered Utilities: Forges, water pumps, and defenses rely on steam power channeled from the volcano’s geothermal energy.
Magma Channels: Natural lava flows and steam vents are diverted through carefully crafted channels, powering steamworks and ritual fires.
Aqueducts and Cenotes: The city uses stone aqueducts to bring water from nearby rivers and cenotes, feeding fountains and purification pools.

Districts

The Sun Pyramid District: At the city’s heart lies the Black Sun Pyramid, a towering step pyramid where rituals, sacrifices, and ceremonies are performed. Surrounding the pyramid are plazas used for gatherings, dances, and festivals.
Forge Ward: Home to the Ember Forges, where obsidian tools, weapons, and ceremonial artifacts are crafted. Blacksmiths and artisans work alongside steam engineers to create functional and artistic items.
Market of Flames: This sprawling bazaar is the center of trade, filled with stalls selling obsidian jewelry, ceremonial knives, exotic herbs, and textiles with sun motifs. Merchants from across Kirishin bring goods like spices, Magha Crystals, and enchanted items.
The Warrior’s Terrace: A district dedicated to the training grounds of the Forgeguard, Chotalcoatl’s military order. Here, combat arenas, barracks, and tactical schools prepare soldiers for battle.
The Pilgrim’s Quarter: This district provides lodging, food, and ritual supplies for travelers and pilgrims who come to worship at the Sun Pyramid or bathe in the Magma Pools.

Guilds and Factions

The Obsidian Forgemasters: A guild of artisans who oversee the city’s obsidian industry, crafting both mundane tools and ceremonial weapons. Their influence extends to both commerce and culture.
The Ember Priests: A spiritual faction responsible for volcanic rituals and interpreting Quisai’s will. They also maintain the Sun Pyramid and guide the city’s spiritual practices.
The Forgeguard: Chotalcoatl’s elite military force, trained in close combat and volcanic environments. They wield obsidian weapons and Magha-enhanced armor.
The Traders’ Syndicate: Merchants who operate the Market of Flames. They control trade networks and maintain relations with other cities across Kirishin and Ysanaf.

Architecture

Step Pyramids: The Black Sun Pyramid dominates the city’s skyline. It is decorated with carvings of Quisai, sun motifs, and serpentine designs symbolizing balance and transformation.
Lava Stone Structures: Buildings are constructed from obsidian and basalt, blending functionality with aesthetic brilliance. Gold inlays and colorful murals adorn walls, depicting myths of fire, creation, and Quisai’s guidance. Open Courtyards:
Many homes and public spaces feature central courtyards with stone altars or small sun gardens, used for both relaxation and rituals.

Geography

Volcanic Caldera: The Shiantun Caldera forms a natural barrier around the city, with steep cliffs and lava tubes shaping its geography. The fertile soil within the caldera supports lush crops, while jungle fringes outside the city provide resources like herbs and timber.
Sacred Hot Springs: The Magma Pools bubble with geothermal energy, seen as Quisai’s blessings. These pools serve both practical and spiritual purposes.

Climate

Tropical and Volcanic: The city experiences warm, humid days with occasional volcanic mists. Rainy seasons feed the cenotes and aqueducts, ensuring a steady water supply.

Owning Organization

Ilquenya