The Sally Port

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Introduction

The Sally Port on the Northeast wall of Harbour City serves multiple critical roles, primarily as a controlled access point both to and from the city. Below are some key aspects of this Sally Port:

Structure and Design

The Sally Port is constructed with thick stone walls, featuring heavy, iron-reinforced wooden doors designed to withstand attacks and unauthorized access. Its narrow passageway allows only a few individuals to pass at a time, making it easier to guard and control. Overhead, murder holes are positioned for guards to use in the event of an attack or breach attempt.

Strategic Importance

This gateway is strategically vital due to its proximity to both the city’s internal defense mechanisms and the outskirts. It not only connects Harbour City to The Pits but also functions as the primary route for the city guards during the Changing of the Guard. The guards use this route to travel to the Lords' Encampment, ensuring a secure pathway outside the main thoroughfares of the city.

The Pits

Directly accessible through the Sally Port, The Pits is a notorious neighborhood known for its rough-and-tumble atmosphere centered around the Fighting Pits. This area attracts fighters, gamblers, and spectators from various regions, contributing to the bustling, sometimes illicit, economy. The neighborhood's reputation for danger and excitement makes the Sally Port a critical point of watchfulness for city guards.

Security

Given its sensitive location, the Sally Port is heavily guarded. The guard rotation is frequent and rigorous, particularly during events like the Changing of the Guard, where the security risk increases. Guards stationed at the Sally Port are typically well-equipped and trained specifically for crowd control and rapid response to threats.

Cultural Significance

Despite its practical and military functions, the Sally Port has also become a cultural symbol in Harbour City. It represents the thin line between order and chaos, serving as a reminder of the city’s vigilance against the disorder that The Pits could potentially spill over into the more civilized parts of Harbour City.

Incorporating the Sally Port into your campaign can add a layer of strategic depth and narrative intrigue, especially involving scenarios that require passage control, subterfuge, or intense urban conflict.

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