Among the more frequently unearthed relics of the Vaults are finely wrought containers of metal and ceramic, known as Maker’s enigmas or, in some circles, cipher caskets. Each is a marvel of ancient craftsmanship, its intricate locking mechanisms guarding the secrets within from all but those who possess the proper key. Yet even such defenses are not impervious; the Chenot, with their deft tendrils, have a knack for unraveling these age-old puzzles. Some enigmas conceal deadly traps, though such precautions are seldom found in the smaller ones, like the example shown here. The treasures within are as varied as they are coveted: coins and gems, alchemical pastilles of restoration, rolled sheets of ushua-paper inscribed with the cryptic Hejeksayaka script, or even arcane devices of unknown purpose. An unopened Maker’s enigma, especially one of larger size, commands a fortune in the great cities of da-Imer and Eshkom, where eager buyers wager immense sums on the hope of unveiling a priceless relic of the Makers.
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| Art by Zhu Bajiee |
James, your imagination is astonishing. Every time you put out something like this, I kick myself. “Why didn’t I think of something cool like that!?”
ReplyDeleteKeep it up, super-interesting!