Zothay has a code of laws based on precedence and old teachings. Obvious and minor cases
are always handled by a present authority figure (a guard captain, a bureaucrat or a city
official), while more serious and complicated legal problems are solely in the hands of
Kritas himself, who is bound by his judgement only.
Skandiks, however, have the right of
appeal to the Governor. Among other laws (some of which are covered under
Treaty and
Treatment of Undead)
the following are always enforced and recited to strangers
entering Zothay by one of its gates.
- Outlanders may only find accomodations on their ship, or the following resthouses:
Saddak’s Inn,
The Three Plates and
Thaskhokar’s Tavern. All other lodgings must be reported
to the authorities.
- The Beggars Quarter and the outside gates are closed for the night. Anyone who would
attempt entry or egress, or aid another in the same will be killed on sight.
- Scaling a wall or a tower, or magical flight is punishable by death.
- Trade is only allowed with a permit by a city official.
- Proselytizing and proclaiming any god save those who are recognized by Zothay is strictly
forbidden. (Certain officials interpret this as "no other clerics may openly displayed holy
symbols”.)
Minor offenses are punishable by fines, serious ones (such as 5.) by lifelong exile (often
with the confiscation of most/all wealth) and grave ones by death. There is a jail under the
palace, but it is only used for important people. Most criminals are weighted and thrown into
the sea or beheaded before the gates of the palace at dawn. There is said to be a now sealed
tomb (the Dismal Pits of Ykhar Laron) where the most serious criminals were once confined –
placed under a curse that would turn them into undead when they starved. This method is not
in use anymore and the tomb’s location is unknown.