The Open Maw Question

The Open Maw Question asks whether Kharod should expand through its underways, seal itself against surface wars, raid, bargain, or sell passage to whichever neighbour pays enough. Gate wardens favour closure, war chiefs favour teeth, and tithe keepers count profit in both directions. The debate is ancient because every generation inherits the same terror: an open gate may be trade, invasion, rescue, betrayal, or future hunger wearing a different mask. Its cost is moral as much as strategic, because every answer decides who will be sheltered and who will be left outside. In council the debate smells of oil, damp stone, charcoal smoke, iron dust, bitter water, and old wool soaked by travellers waiting to learn whether a gate will open.