Gallows Market

The Gallows Market is a large public square located at the eastern end of Gallows Street, just outside the inner bailey of Dalreoch. It serves as a dual-purpose space for both the city's commercial trade and the administration of royal justice through public executions and proclamations.

The market is one of the wider thoroughfares in the capital. The square is surfaced with flagstones featuring permanent brass inlays that mark the specific pitches for market stalls. On special occasions, such as the arrival of Lady Elizabeth Wallis, the market is meticulously cleared of detritus by city labourers to ensure the flagstones are visible.

A permanent gibbet stands within the square, serving as the focal point for the city’s high justice. Condemned criminals are traditionally marched the “long way round” from the King's Keep down Gallows Street so the crowds may witness justice being done before they reach the market square. While the gallows are often cleared of remains during festivals or royal weddings, they remain a potent symbol of the King's authority.

Beyond trade and execution, the market is the primary site for royal announcements to the people of Dalreoch. It is here that King Alasdair V made his most significant political move in 769, proclaiming his personal rule and the end of the regency. The event was secured by Sir Iain Alpin and the Life Guard, who prevented the erstwhile regents from interfering with the King's address to the gathered citizens.

In the run-up to the royal wedding of 774, the Gallows Market became a site of covert violence despite the official “Rules of Hospitality” governing the city. A local figure named Aodh MacAodh utilized the empty gallows to execute an accused rapist named Iain Stone, pinning a sign to the body to justify the act. This incident occurred under the cover of night while the city was mobbed with newcomers and tourists.

Historically, the square has been the anchor of the city’s “New Market” district, which sits between the Old West Gate and the outer walls, separating the affluent inner city from the bustling merchant and dock districts.

• King Alasdair V: Sovereign who asserted his right to rule in this square.
• Sir Iain Alpin: Commander of the Life Guard who secured the market during the King's proclamation.
• Aodh MacAodh: A local operative known to frequent the market and its surrounding closes.
• Bhaltair Gilranald: The former regent whose influence was curtailed by the King's proclamation here.

• Dalreoch: The capital city containing the market.
• King's Keep: The starting point for the procession of the condemned to the gallows.
• Water Gate: A nearby district and gatehouse often used by those visiting the market.
• The Drum: A raucous tavern located on Gallows Street leading into the market.