As a brand new player, I have a couple questions that I am hoping someone can help with. Thanks in advance.

1 - When calling for support, am I correct in understanding that only players that have played a support order can add their support?

2 - I am utterly confused regarding Ports. We read the manual multiple times, but are very confused as the strategic nature of ports, and why they are needed or beneficial.

Thanks,

Tomasina

1. Yes, Support may only be provided by locations that have a Support Order. No Support Order = No Support!

2. Ports exist primarily to enable a player to Muster Ships once they have lost control of a Sea Area. In the original game (No Ports), players could be completely shut out of the Sea after losing a Battle, effectively stranding them. This would be a devastating blow for Baratheon, for example. He would be stranded on Dragonstone with no way to get off. With Ports, there is always the possibility that a player can take back that Sea Area.