Gaol

Gaol

Location	Beneath The Bastion, Cordis
Type	Unknown
Notable Features
Status	Operational (partially sealed)

The Gaol is a subterranean prison facility located deep beneath The Bastion in the city of Cordis. It is considered the most secure correctional institution under Bastion control and houses the most dangerous Enlightened criminals, magical offenders, and traitors.

Overview

The Gaol is rarely spoken of outside Bastion inner circles. Most citizens of Cordis do not even know it exists. Hidden beneath the lower levels of the Bastion, it is used not only for imprisonment but also interrogation and magical containment. Its isolation makes it ideal for secrets, torture, and long-term magical suppression.

Structure

The Gaol spans several levels beneath the Bastion, with the uppermost section used for interrogation. Deep below lies the true prison: cell blocks reinforced with nullification wards, cursed stone, and Bastion-grade shielding. Some areas were decommissioned following the escape of the Enlightened known as Teddy Two-Fingers, who used abandoned sections of the complex as a hideout during his revenge campaign against Lincoln Franks.

History

The Gaol has existed in some form since the earliest days of the Bastion. It has always served as both punishment and warning. Most inmates are held indefinitely. Execution is reserved for only the most catastrophic threats, though many believe a life in the Gaol is worse than death.

During Teddy's escape, several deaths occurred. As a result, Clostator Juanita Socorro ordered all cell blocks extending beyond the Bastion's walls to be sealed off. It is not publicly known how many inmates remain inside those abandoned corridors—or what became of them.

Security

No guards are posted above the Gaol, because no one is expected to survive a confrontation with the Bastion's elite. To attack someone near the Bastion courtyard is to guarantee one’s death… or a living burial in the Gaol. Escape is considered nearly impossible, though not without precedent.