Gates and Walls

A city such as Luthadel would be a prime target for attack, if anyone was stupid enough to take on the Lord Ruler himself. Almost no one is, of course, and those who are tend to learn their place quickly, but even so, a huge wall surrounds the city’s perimeter. Perhaps it’s just for show, or a vestige of less stable times, but it still has its uses- primarily controlling trade and travel. Only eight entry points exist: the Gates of Luthadel, which represent the eight basic metals. Anyone who wants to enter or exit the city had best have a good reason, not to mention all their paperwork in order. The wall is defended by the Luthadel Garrison, a well-equipped and better-trained force of twenty thousand soldiers, and they don’t take well to trespassers....