Stronghold Management
Upon reaching a certain point in your adventures, specifically after escaping Irenicus' Dungeon and arriving in Athkatla, you will be presented with the opportunity to acquire a Stronghold. This is a class-specific questline that offers unique benefits, regular income, and often challenging side quests. Managing your Stronghold effectively is crucial for maximizing its advantages.
Acquiring Your Stronghold
The path to your Stronghold varies depending on your protagonist's class. Here's a breakdown of how to initiate each:
- Fighter Stronghold (De'Arnise Keep): This is one of the earliest Strongholds you can acquire. Head to the De'Arnise Keep located in the Umar Hills region. You'll receive a plea for help from Nalia de'Arnise in the Copper Coronet. Completing the quest to reclaim the keep from the Trolls and their leader, TorGal, will grant you ownership.
- Paladin Stronghold (Temple of Helm): Paladins will be approached by a representative of the Order of the Radiant Heart in the Temple District of Athkatla. You'll need to undertake several quests for the Order, proving your worth and devotion, before being granted command of the Temple.
- Cleric Stronghold (Temple of Lathander/Talos/Helm): Clerics will similarly be approached by a representative of their chosen deity's temple in the Temple District. You'll need to complete specific tasks and trials to earn the right to lead the temple.
- Thief Stronghold (Shadow Thieves' Guildhall): Thieves will be contacted by Mae'Var in the Docks District, offering a series of tasks to prove their loyalty to the Shadow Thieves. Successfully navigating these treacherous assignments will eventually lead to leadership of a section of the guild.
- Mage Stronghold (Planar Sphere): Mages will encounter the Planar Sphere in the Slums District. Entering and clearing this extra-dimensional dungeon will grant you control of this powerful magical base.
- Druid Stronghold (Druid Grove): Druids will be called upon to resolve a conflict within the Druid Grove, located in the Trademeet area. Restoring balance and peace to the grove will establish it as your sanctuary.
- Bard Stronghold (Five Flagons Inn): Bards will be approached by a representative of the Five Flagons Inn in the Bridge District. You'll need to perform various tasks related to the inn's reputation and entertainment to become its proprietor.
- Ranger Stronghold (Umar Hills Cabin): Rangers will be directed to a cabin in the Umar Hills. This Stronghold often involves protecting the local wilderness and its inhabitants.
Stronghold Benefits and Management
Once you've secured your Stronghold, regular management is key to reaping its rewards. You'll typically receive a notification in your journal when a new Stronghold event or income is available. Return to your Stronghold periodically to check on its status.
Income and Upgrades
Most Strongholds provide a steady stream of gold, often on a weekly or bi-weekly basis. This income can be substantial and is a great way to fund your adventures. Some Strongholds also offer opportunities for upgrades or additional services:
- De'Arnise Keep: You'll manage the keep's finances, deal with peasant disputes, and potentially hire guards or improve defenses. Regular income is provided by the surrounding lands.
- Temple of Helm/Lathander/Talos: You'll oversee temple operations, handle donations, and perform priestly duties. This often involves healing the sick or providing spiritual guidance. Income comes from tithes and offerings.
- Shadow Thieves' Guildhall: As a guild leader, you'll manage illicit operations, collect protection money, and send your agents on missions. This provides a lucrative, albeit morally ambiguous, income.
- Planar Sphere: This unique Stronghold offers access to powerful magical research and the ability to craft rare items. While not providing direct gold income, the sphere's resources are invaluable. You'll also need to manage the sphere's inhabitants and defenses.
Stronghold Quests and Events
Beyond income, Strongholds are a source of unique, class-specific quests and random events. These can range from simple requests for assistance to complex investigations or defensive battles. Ignoring these events can sometimes lead to negative consequences, such as loss of income or even the temporary loss of your Stronghold.
- Example: De'Arnise Keep: You might be asked to resolve a dispute between farmers, deal with a bandit problem, or even defend the keep from another Troll incursion.
- Example: Temple of Helm: You might be called upon to heal a plague, investigate a demonic possession, or lead a holy crusade.
- Example: Shadow Thieves' Guildhall: You could be tasked with a high-stakes heist, eliminating a rival gang, or rescuing a captured agent.
Strategic Considerations
- Timely Returns: Make it a habit to return to your Stronghold every few in-game days or whenever you receive a journal update. Missing too many events can have repercussions.
- Resource Allocation: For Strongholds with upgrade options, prioritize those that align with your playstyle or offer the most significant benefits. For instance, a Fighter might prioritize defensive upgrades for De'Arnise Keep, while a Mage might focus on magical research in the Planar Sphere.
- Companion Interactions: Some companions may have unique dialogue or reactions to your Stronghold, or even offer assistance with its management. Pay attention to their comments.
- Role-Playing: Embrace the role of a Stronghold owner. Your decisions can impact the lives of those under your care and shape your reputation in Athkatla and beyond.
Effectively managing your Stronghold adds a rich layer of depth to Baldur's Gate II, offering both practical advantages and engaging narrative opportunities. Don't neglect your responsibilities, and your Stronghold will serve you well throughout your journey.