Old Cloister

The Old Cloister is an ancient cloister within Elkhazg, preserved in its original state for roughly five millennia. It has been deliberately left without electricity or plumbing and is used to provide simple, quiet cells for visitors.

First appearance and context

Upon arrival at Elkhazg, visiting avout and their companions were welcomed by the Heritor and assigned cells in the Old Cloister, using it as austere lodging while other courtyards hosted work and instruction.

Description and features

• Architecture: A traditional arcade opening onto a courtyard, with cells accessed from the ground floor and above. Ancient wooden shutters and fittings remain in place.
• Utilities: Unmodernized—no electric lighting or plumbing, consistent with its preserved state.
• Tilings: The cloister floor is laid with thousands of identical, horn‑shaped nine‑sided tiles arranged with precision into a nonrepeating double‑spiral pattern. Cells and furnishings nearby feature precision‑cut tilings in stone and wood.

Role and use

• Provides austere quarters for visiting avout and allies during periods of activity at Elkhazg.
• Alcoves opening onto the cloister have been used for meals and discussion before and after work elsewhere in the complex.

Current status

Maintained as a preserved wing of Elkhazg under the stewardship of its Heritor; occasionally houses visitors when the complex is in use.