The Gate-War

This stub is about the conflict that brought about the introduction of the ordered gatesystem that is used today.

In the early years of the emerging civilization of the Riverfolk, it did not take long before the first Rivergates were constructed. However, with no system in place to manage them, the situation quickly spiraled into the first major conflict of the Great Stream.

A brewing conflict

As it became apparent how much power a Rivergate exerts on anyone living further upstream than it, a veritable arms race began. Anyone with the means created their own gate, seeking to extract value from the peoples and goods seeking to pass it.

At the same time gates upstream sought to rebel against gates further downstream, often trying to destroy them before they could fortify their positions.

A years long conflict began, only temporarily paused by the long cold winters. Riverfolk were slain in large numbers until the Great Stream threatened to run red.

After the Gate-War

When the different factions of the war finally grew weary of the bloodshed, a new system had to be conceived. The Rivergates from now on would have to follow strict rules:

1. Only Confluences and Waterfalls may be the home of of a Rivergate.
2. A Rivergate must be kept up and maintained by who rules the settlement around it.
3. Rivergates are respnsible for the safety of Rivergates further upstream. In return they receive taxes from them and must follow their rule.
4. Rivergates must not impede the natural flow of water.