The Docks are located in the City Of The Rich Frog, a bustling hub divided among the control of the Lion, Dragon, and Unicorn clans. They serve as a vital point of entry and exit for trade and travel, situated along the river that separates the various districts of the city. This area is characterized by a busy atmosphere, where merchants and locals interact amidst the sounds of watercraft and the scent of the river. The Docks are noted for their potential danger, particularly after dark, as locals are wary of criminal activity and actively work to catch wrongdoers in the act. This highlights their role as a focal point for both trade and potential conflict within the city's complex political landscape.
The Docks are the largest docks in the City Of The Rich Frog, situated on the Unicorn side of the river. This vibrant area is a center for trade and transactions, especially during the day, while at night, it continues to facilitate both legal and illicit activities. The Docks feature creaky wooden boards and an unlit, shadowy environment suitable for smuggling operations. Surrounding structures include warehouses and barracks for local ronin. The humid and warm climate contributes to the lively yet secretive atmosphere, making it a crucial hub for maritime activity, particularly illicit trade. The Docks are crucial for the movement of goods, including unicorn artifacts, and are connected to a network of suppliers and dealers, some of whom operate discreetly within the city.
Local lawman Kaeru Haya has indicated that The Docks are suspected to be a hub for smuggling activities, believing a smuggling ring operates from this location. He escorted magistrates Bayushi Monban, Doji Setsuna, and Kakita Kazumi to The Docks based on suspicions of an impending smuggling operation. The area features a mix of dark alleys and open spaces, with structures designed for loading and unloading goods, frequented by sailors, merchants, and local magistrates. Kaeru Haya provided details about The Docks, including the presence of a Mantis ship and rumors of relics being smuggled.
Daidoji Shin, a Crane agent, advises caution regarding the Dragon District due to active police operations and suggests that the Unicorn District may have relevant leads. The Docks are noted as the most likely route for smuggling small occult items in and out of the city. Local ronin often patrol the area, maintaining a tense environment marked by the anticipation of confrontations. The area is often bustling with clandestine dealings, especially at night when dock workers and smugglers operate under the cover of darkness. The Docks also serve as a meeting point for collaboration between the Emerald Magistrates and local ronin, as they exchange intelligence regarding ongoing smuggling operations and a specific Mantis ship involved in the illicit trade.
In a recent incident, magistrate Shiba Midori encountered two men in a dark alley who attempted to kidnap her. Following a confrontation, Midori fought back but was ultimately incapacitated. Monban and Setsuna searched The Docks for Midori, noticing fewer skiffs than expected, suggesting possible smuggling activity. Monban used magical abilities to scout the area from above and discovered a piece of Midori's robe, prompting an urgent search. Midori was eventually found aboard a fishing skiff tied to the dock, having been robbed. As tensions escalated, a large blue-water ship began to depart, leading to a confrontation with Captain Kubota, who claimed to be on a mission to retrieve a kidnapped girl. Police presence at The Docks has prompted some to hesitate, yet the area remains vital for ongoing investigations into illicit magical items and contraband. A Curio Shop, located away from the busy wharf, features a collection of strange antiques and is managed by an elderly proprietor.
Recently, The Docks have seen an increase in activity, particularly at dawn when Kaeru Ronin patrol the area, indicating a heightened state of alert. A large ship that was previously docked has already departed, underscoring the dynamic nature of the location and its potential for smuggling activities. Kakita Kazumi arrived at The Docks after confronting a thief, compelling him to return Shiba Midori’s coin purse. There, he encountered Doji Setsuna and Shiba Midori, who appeared to have had a rough night, with Midori visibly injured and without her weapons. The Docks hosted a meeting between the Kaeru Ronin and the Emerald Magistrates, where discussions occurred regarding smuggling and a report on a Mantis captain's conduct. Key interactions included the retrieval of Shiba Midori’s daisho from a Fisherman’s boat and the delivery of urgent summons from Governor Miya Tetsuya, further emphasizing The Docks' role as a hub of activity and intrigue.