Local whispers say the original foundation stones were quarried from a collapsed watchtower at the northern pass; some swear that a sentinel's ghost still paces the roof on storm nights. The palace put an inscription in the cellar that supposedly wards against small conjurations, which is why traveling mages must register their components if they drink here. The watchhouse is considered neutral ground for disputes between regiments — a tradition older than the current monarch, and one many would rather not break.