THE ENTRANCE GATE

The Gate can be barred from the inside.  NPC Guards are on the Gate around the clock.  If no Panther Members are present, the gate will not be opened.  For the purpose of manageable roleplay, the gate is the only public entrance/exit to the Lair.  Rather than go into extensive detail about how the pallisade walls would be defended, it will be left simple.  You cannot get in or out of the Lair without going through the gate.  NPC Guards will cage you for attempting to violate Entrance rules, at any time.  If you are intending to force your way past the gate, then you are Raiding - and Raids need to be arranged OOC in advance.

The Gate Guards work from a platform on the inside of the Gate, from which they can see over, or fire arrows over the gate.  When they change shifts, or if Panthers want to get to the platform, a ladder can be lowered from the platform to allow this.  The gate is usually opened and closed by means of metal cables strung through block and tackle apparatus.  One is attached in the high branches of a tur tree outside the Lair, the other is attached to the stout whipping post.  This allows the guards to open or close the gate without leaving the platform.