Gulf Gate
The fourth gate of Huzuz is located south of the Clothiers' District and is heavily used by tradesmen and suppliers. Caravans from the small town of Saraq make their way to this gate. It is also the gate through which most foodstuffs enter Huzuz, whether brought in a flock or in a farmer's cart. Even farmers from the other side of the city prefer this gate.
The gate is closed at night, but little traffic comes this way after dark. The Gulf Gate has the attraction that it is by far the closest gate to the Grand Bazaar, which most say can be found simply by following one's nose and ears after reaching the gate. For those unfamiliar with the maelstrom that is Huzuz, this can be a major influence in gate choice.
Commanding the Gulf Gate is the redoubtable Miba sitt Lelia, the mother of the current Imam of the mosque of Selan. Miba is almost 70, and is well past her prime as a warrior. She got the post mostly because of her daughter's connections with the palace, but also because of her closeness and devotion to the current Grand Caliph's father, who wished her to be cared for until her dying day. It was felt that Miba could do little harm at the Gulf Gate, yet it was a post with honor. Miba has turned out to be somewhat of a surprise to the younger generation, doing a very competent job. Collections at the Gulf Gate are up sharply since Miba took over two years ago, and the morale of her troops has improved as well. Miba is often seen talking to the shepherds who bring their flocks to market, for she has never lost her love of animals.
Tax collections are handled by Miba's best friend, Tala al-Sunim, who took over at the same time as Miba. Tala is also past 60, but her eyes and wits are as sharper as ever. She is noted for her fairness, and most shepherds and farmers feel she gives them a fair evaluation, which is all they can expect. Unscrupulous caravan masters have a less flattering opinion of her, because she has ferreted out many who thought to easily fool the "old women" at the Gulf Gate.
The two women are personable, very professional, and totally devoted to one another. On one rare occasion when they were forced to fight off a belligerent ajami, the crowd saw them erupt into mad whirlwinds of activity, perfectly matched in step and thrust. Though old, they are still able - even if they must rest afterward.
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