While the Hall of Bones deals in both current and extinct species, the Hall of Skins deals in primarily current ones. The pair work closely when examining a new specimen or little-researched species. Extensive study of available information is necessary when determining how a creature would naturally stand and move, which has an enormous impact on recreating the musculature beneath a preserved hide.
The hall itself is similar in size and layout to the Hall of Bones, and also charges a small admission fee. The displays are on short, squat platforms, with signs next to each with interesting facts on each species. The hall overall seems quite dark at first, but each display is specially lit by coned torches to maximize the lighting on the displays themselves, without emphasizing the large spaces in between.
The first section deals primarily in beasts in the surrounding Sea of Grass, such as Night Lions, Glassbeaks, and other creatures, large and small. Two particularly noteworthy exhibitions in this section is a diorama of several such creatures in a large, ‘natural’ space, and at the end of the hall, a perfectly preserved Zith male and female atop a faux rock in aggressive postures.
The second section of the hall consists of several subsections, each representing a different part of Mizahar the Hall has acquired specimens from. Prominent among these are the desert creatures of Eyktol, and the forest creatures from Syliras. A smaller, but more exotic section exists on the jungles of Falyndar, while the remaining areas of the world have only one or two specimens to represent them.
The third section of the hall is smaller than the other two, and is in fact a walking area around the research areas. Here, one may read plaques and signs on the process of taxidermy, and see works in progress. The process of skinning a recent kill is fairly rare in the research area, as the hall is extensive and most readily available species are already on display. However, an exhibit may need replacing or updating on occasion, and when a fresh kill is brought in, the skinning process takes place in a blocked-off section of the research area. A visitor may visit the paths around this area if they like, but signs are displayed to warn those of a gentler disposition that ‘research’ on the other side of the wall may appear gruesome in nature.
Guided tours are available upon request and for a small additional fee, but are usually only used for guests to the city.
Pistrin Louva
Name: Pistrin Louva
Race: Nuit
DoB: 2nd of Winter, 101
PoB: Sahova
Title: Curator, Head Taxidermist
Skills: Taxidermy 70, Embalming 55, Anthropology 50
Gnosis: N/A
Additional Info:While Pistrin is considered a cool, unfriendly individual, those who share his passion for taxidermy may find him an enthusiastic, perhaps overly so, man of his profession. The fact that he is a Nuit unnerves most, but it is known via rumors of a past outburst that he acquires bodies for himself in a lawful manner. He is friends of a kind with Niko Timdal of the Hall of Bones, and when collaboration is required between the two halls, Pistrin will work with no other. He has his own office away from the prying eyes around the research lab, and is only seen in the viewable area very rarely, usually to reprimand the work of a technician.
Not much is known about his life before his death, as he speaks of it to no one. He studied extensively in Sahova for many years before deciding the atmosphere was too monotonous. Though the public of Riverfall is less than friendly towards Nuits, he has made a niche for himself and has served the Hall of Skins well for many decades.
Prices
Basic Entry – 2gm
Guided Tour – Additional 3gm
Employment
New taxidermy technicians are always sought after, though must be able to work under pressure, as Pistrin has little patience for teaching. This position requires skill points in Taxidermy.
Janitors are also needed, as a well-travelled museum requires some level of maintenance, usually on the level of common cleaning. The Organization skill is required for this position.
Tour Guides are always sought after, but many find the position too “creepy” to stay in for long. Socialization or Leadership skills are required to work in this position.
New specimens of any species not already on display are always welcomed, but they are difficult to attain in ways that preserve the creature for the long travel back. Pistrin can be spoken to personally about what species are sought after and what condition they must be in when they get back in order to preserve the hides.
