Description
The building itself is rectangular and substantial, with walls constructed from tightly fitted planks of weather-resistant ironwood. Unlike many structures in the settlement, the Tribute House has solid walls rather than the traditional open designs, providing security for the valuable goods stored within. Small, high windows allow ventilation while preventing easy access, each one covered with decorative grillwork carved from bone and hardwood in patterns that allow air flow but discourage theft. The roof is triple-layered pandanus thatch treated with tree sap, making it nearly waterproof even during the fiercest storms.
Inside, the Tribute House is divided into carefully organized sections. Large woven baskets and carved wooden chests line the walls, each one labeled with shell markers indicating contents and destination dates. A central accounting table dominates the main floor, where tribute officials record every item received, weighed, and prepared for transfer. Hanging from the ceiling beams are bundled dried fish, strings of pearls, woven mats, and other goods too valuable to store on the floor. The air inside smells of sea salt, dried fish, and the sweet scent of preserved breadfruit.
At the far end of the building stands the Transfer Platform, a raised dais carved with intricate patterns that connect to Goodberry's dimensional network. Here, collected goods are ceremonially placed during the monthly tithe ceremony. Duke Karthos himself typically presides over these transfers, placing tribute goods on the platform while speaking the formal words of offering. The goods shimmer and vanish, drawn through the dimensional boundary to Goodberry's central storehouse. A small altar beside the platform holds offerings to both Tangaroa and to Goodberry itself, acknowledging the dual nature of ocean bounty and magical architecture that makes this settlement possible.
External stairs lead to the elevated entrance, wide enough for two people to carry heavy loads side by side. A covered loading platform extends from the doorway, sheltered by an extension of the roof that protects workers and goods from sun and rain during the collection process. Here, citizens arrive with their monthly contributions, fishermen bring portions of their catch, and traders offer their commercial taxes. The platform bustles with activity during collection days, becoming a secondary hub of community interaction as people fulfill their obligations to both Duke and dimensional patron.
Benefits
Provides various benefits.