guardkeep
Guardkeep is a term used in fantasy fiction, role-playing games, and historical simulations to denote a fortified outpost or garrison responsible for guarding a particular region, road, or settlement. The term can refer to the physical structure as well as the unit stationed there.
Etymology: a compound of guard and keep; keep historically is the fortified residence within a castle, and
Typical features include a gatehouse, watchtower, palisade or walls, armory, guardrooms, stables, and signal equipment. The
In fiction and games, guardkeeps are commonly placed at borders, mountain passes, river crossings, or in frontier
Variations: some settings use alternative terms such as watchpost, garrison, or outpost; guardkeep can also refer