My group is about to start book 6. They have just cut the head of the snake so to speak. Literally taking Uri's head. I was curious if other groups have done some interesting things with the portals or the citadel in general.
So my group had the idea to start their own trade consortium. It started with the elves in the jungle. As things progressed they later made a deal with kovlar for quick transportation of goods across the world. Then before going to Katapesh they made arrangements with cypress point and ravounel as well. Our barbarian became the guild master of the gladiator arena. As well leading up the events in katapesh our rogue had already dropped the idea of a new trade partner to many guilds in katapesh. Once the events were done and because of how well they performed I allowed the trade consortium to take over the guild position formerly held by the scarlet triad.
So next step is making warehouses near each portal. As well a set of message stones for each gate. That way someone stationed in the ring knows when to open a portal. Also they brought in the labor unions from kovlar and used the chisel to make it so the citadel entrance to the ring is via a now hidden door. That way trade and goods arent cluttering up the citadel. They had a mine cart system built in the goblin blood caves that comes out into the new home of the bumblebrashers. Who can then guide travelers to breachill for a nice break or they continue through another portal.
As well they filled the portal room with a golem dedicated to each of the major factions they have made friends with along the way. The first floor of the citadel the court rooms have been converted to an embassy and housing for their friends from other parts of the world to stay in.
As my group has truly made friends, allies, and a home. They have retirement goals and relations. Our champion has been romancing Nketiah, and our rogue has been romancing Tarindlara who may be carrying his child. I'm really excited for book 6. (laughs in evil dragon god)