Gate Guard Simulator: How to Inspect Seals and Catch Smugglers

To process travelers crossing the bridge into Ramberg in the Gate Guard Simulator demo, verify paper credentials against official wax seals, search incoming cargo for unlisted contraband, and check suspects for signs of witchcraft before deciding to admit, reject, or detain them.

Verifying Entry Papers and Official Wax Seals

Never rely on a traveler's spoken claims. Begin every interaction by demanding their paperwork, such as entry permits, diplomatic passes, or merchant writs, and inspect the physical wax seal before reading the text.

1. Examine the Wax Seal: Legitimate Ramberg seals display sharp crest outlines, uniform stamp depth, and matching wax color. Counterfeit seals often feature blurred insignias, misspelled authority titles, or emblems from obsolete or rival factions.
2. Audit Dates and Signatures: Check that the permit has not expired. Reject any expired credential immediately, regardless of the traveler's stated urgency.
3. Cross-Reference Details: Match the bearer's stated occupation and intended destination with the details stamped on the permit. Flag discrepancies immediately, such as a traveler carrying cargo while presenting an artisan badge that lacks transport clearance.

Inspecting Cargo and Catching Smugglers

A valid trade license does not guarantee safe cargo. Search all wagons, crates, and barrels manually before granting access to the bridge.

• False Bottoms and Hidden Compartments: Inspect double-walled crates and wagon floors for concealed blades, unlisted alchemical drafts, or stolen valuables.
• Manifest Weight Inconsistencies: Compare handling weight against the written manifest. If a crate marked for lightweight textiles feels dense or contains shifting weight, pry it open to confirm the contents.
• Unmarked Containers: Legitimate wine, ale, and oil casks bear approved mercantile stamps. If a barrel is unmarked or shows signs of hasty resealing, inspect it for hidden items.

When you discover contraband or unlisted items, do not simply send the traveler back onto the bridge. Confiscate the illicit goods and detain the smuggler to avoid penalties against your guard performance.

Screening for Witches and Occult Threats

Magical threats require screening beyond standard bureaucratic checks, as witches and cursed travelers attempt to bypass the bridge using charms and disguises.

• Physical and Behavioral Anomalies: Watch for abnormal eye coloration, concealed ritual talismans, and visible discomfort or agitation when a traveler nears holy symbols around the gatehouse.
• Unstable Documents: Occult visitors may present forged passes that look normal at first glance but exhibit shifting text, smudged runes, or dissolving ink under close inspection.
• Bribery and Deflection: Suspects carrying unverified alchemical mixtures or unholy relics frequently attempt to bribe guards when questioned. Refuse all bribes and refuse entry or detain the suspect based on the severity of the infraction.

Managing the Gate: Inspection Reference

Use this reference table to resolve common checkpoint issues quickly and prevent delays at the bridge:

Denying an obvious violator promptly keeps the queue moving across the bridge, preventing backlog while keeping unauthorized wanderers out of Ramberg.