Castle

In general, a castle is comprised of a large keep with a curtain wall surrounding it to form a courtyard. This structure is one of the most impenetrable defenses in existence. But a castle is so much more than a fortification.

The castle is a also a residence for a royal family or noble line, a seat of power, and a status symbol. It is little wonder that castles attract vast numbers of people. A castle practically begs a city to be built around it. Unlike an outpost or keep, castles are seldom on the frontier, or, at least, not for long. Anyone looking for lodging, a job, opportunity, or adventure would be well served by visiting the castle jutting over the horizon.

Castles sometimes go by different names. Palaces are unfortified castles. A fortress, on the other hand, is fortified, but doesn't typically serve as a noble residence.

Traditionally, members of the royal family, a noble bloodline, or some other distinguished or powerful group makes a castle their home. Adventurers might not be blood relatives, but might be considered part of the same family. For the bonds forged in battle are strong indeed.

In addition to the resident family, the castle houses and employs cooks, chefs, seamsters, butlers, maids, footmen, game wardens, gardeners, pages, entertainers, guards, soldiers, laborers, and more. The most important servants are the chamberlain who oversees to the running of the household and the treasurer who kept records and inventories.

Any player character might be interested in building a castle, no matter their class or background. The castle was a versatile structure that could be run and modified according to the tastes of its owners.

Construction Cost. 500,000 gp

Construction Time. 1,200 days

Castle Features

Industry Score Increase. Each of your settlement's industry scores increases by 3.

Vassalage. Anywhere within this settlement, as a bonus action, you can call for aid and, in 1d4+1 minutes' time, a 6th-level sidekick appears to aid or fight for you.

You cannot use this feature again until the sidekick dies or is dismissed. (See the rules for Sidekicks in the D&D Essentials Kit Rulebook.)