House of Serenity
Freeport has no shortage of brothels. From the filthy alleys in Scurvytown to the flophouses of The Docks, there is an outlet for just about every vice. Among these pleasure dens, one stands at the fore: the House of Serenity. This bordello caters specifically to Freeport’s elite, offering the finest courtesans for those with coin enough to sample their delights. This is no place for the rude and uncultured; it is a retreat for those of discerning tastes.
A night in the House of Serenity costs a great deal. The prices place it well out of the range of most sea dogs, and even some captains; the majority of the clientele are wealthy men (and some women) from the Merchant District. Some officers of the Guard save up several weeks of pay for just a single night here. It is substantially safer and cleaner than Freeport’s other bordellos, as well as a cultural cut above. As well, the pleasures offered here are of the usual nature. Companionship, conversation, a pleasant meal, some light entertainment (commonly singing and dancing), and physical intimacy with the partner of one’s choice are the House’s fare; management heavily disapproves of activities beyond those. Those seeking more outré physical pleasures are advised to take their kinks to Dreaming Street.
Architecture
The renovated and rebuilt Serenity House is just as inconspicuous as the old one. Nothing about its façade indicates its purpose or its contents. Three stories tall, it occupies the corner of Main and High Streets. The external walls are polished sandstone fitted with numerous windows on all sides. Terracotta tiles roof the building, and each corner features a cherubic angel that sometimes showers the streets below with streams of rainwater. Inside, there’s no mistaking this place for anything other than a bordello. The interior is soft and inviting. Statues of scantily clad men and women fill the entrance, looking down on the patterned floor with mischievous or lascivious expressions. Archways on either side lead to entertaining rooms where affections are as freely poured as the wine. Here the courtesans await their guests. At the far end of the hall is a striking staircase leading to a balcony lined with doors, which open into the private bedchambers. Twin staircases head up from here to the top level, containing offices, sleeping quarters for the staff, and storerooms.
History
The House of Serenity has been around for many years, one of the most prominent brothels in the city, whose fame has spread far beyond Freeport’s walls. Sailors dream of spending a night in this place, and travelers come from faraway lands to sample its delights.
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