TL;DR
- Guards block your entry into Hernand Castle during the Mystical Key main quest.
- You need the Hernandian Attire outfit to get past the guards.
- Get it for free by completing the “Actions Speak Louder Than Words” quest.
- You can also buy it from the Tailor’s Shop near Rhett’s blacksmith.
- Equip the attire, approach the gates, and you’re in — no combat needed.
- After Chapter 3, the gates stay open and you no longer need the outfit.
Crimson Desert drops you into a rich open world full of warring factions, each controlling their own turf. Early in the game, you’ll make your way to the City of Hernand — a busy settlement with a massive castle looming over it to the northeast.
You’ll need to enter that castle as part of the Mystical Key main quest. But when you walk up to the gates? The guards turn you away. They size you up and tell you that you can’t just stroll in dressed like that.
It’s one of those moments where the game doesn’t make it obvious what to do next. Don’t worry — this guide breaks it all down step by step.
If you’re still early in the game, check out our Crimson Desert review for a full look at what to expect.
Why You Can’t Enter Hernand Castle at First
When you first arrive at Hernand Castle’s gate, the guards inspect your appearance and refuse entry. The game pops up a quick hint in the top-left corner explaining that some areas require specific outfits to enter.
This isn’t just a one-time thing. Crimson Desert uses a disguise system throughout the game. Different factions control different zones, and wearing the right outfit lets you slip past guards without triggering a fight. Hernand Castle is your first taste of this mechanic.
Trying to climb the castle wall is an option — but it will alert every guard inside and get you killed fast. Skip that idea.
How to Enter Hernand Castle in Crimson Desert
You need one specific item: the Hernandian Attire. This outfit signals to the guards that you’re aligned with the ruling faction. There are two ways to get it.
Method 1: Complete “Actions Speak Louder Than Words” (Free — Recommended)
This is the easiest way and costs you nothing. Here’s how it works:
- Track the quest called “Actions Speak Louder Than Words” — it’s part of the Trials of Kindness storyline in the main quest chain.
- Head to the farms just south of the city walls. The location appears highlighted on your map.
- Speak to the two distressed villagers outside their home.
- Pick up the Broom item and equip it.
- Climb onto the roof of the house and make your way to the chimney.
- Press L1/LB to aim at the chimney, then press R1/RB to sweep it clean.
- Return to the villagers and speak with them again.
- As thanks, they hand you the Hernandian Attire — a purple coat-like armor piece.
Most players already have this item sitting in their inventory by the time they reach the castle. Check there first before doing anything else.
Method 2: Buy It from the Tailor’s Shop
If you already sold the attire or somehow missed it, don’t panic.
- Head to the Tailor’s Shop, located right next to Rhett’s blacksmith in the city.
- Purchase the Hernandian Attire there.
- If you sold it to a merchant by mistake, visit that merchant and select “Repurchase” to get it back.
Need help with other quests in the city? Check out our guide on how to complete Rhett’s Request in Crimson Desert and how to complete Renee’s Request in Crimson Desert.
How to Use the Hernandian Attire to Enter the Castle
Once you have the outfit, the rest is simple:
- Open your inventory and equip the Hernandian Attire (the purple coat item).
- Walk to any of the Hernand Castle gates and approach the guards.
- The guards will inspect your outfit. Because you’re wearing the correct attire, they’ll clear you for entry.
- The gate opens and you’re free to walk in.
Important: Only the top piece needs to match. You can mix and match the Hernandian Attire with other armor pieces — just make sure the coat is equipped.
Warning: If you remove the attire while inside the castle, the guards will turn hostile immediately. If that happens, run straight to the gate — they’ll throw you out safely instead of killing you on the spot.
What to Do Inside Hernand Castle
Once you’re in, you can continue the Mystical Key quest. Here’s a quick path through:
- Go up the stairs at the entrance and follow the path forward, past the well and a group of guards.
- Take the stairs on the right as you enter the main building.
- At the top, go through the entrance in front of Kliff, then turn right into a large room. This triggers the “Find the Alchemist’s Chamber” objective.
- To find the alchemist’s chamber, take the first door on the left as you enter that room. It may look like the guarded door in the middle is the one you need — it’s not.
Beyond the main quest, there’s more to explore inside:
- A Contribution Shop where you can spend Hernand reputation points on gear and items.
- A free recipe in the castle kitchen worth grabbing.
- The Hernand Castle Strongbox — though accessing it requires a key and the ability to steal. Learn more in our guide on how to steal items in Crimson Desert.
Some Canta Armor set pieces also grant permanent castle access — an alternative to wearing the Hernandian Attire for future visits.
When Do You No Longer Need the Hernandian Attire?
Once you reach Chapter 3, the castle gates open permanently. You can walk in wearing whatever you like and the guards won’t bother you. Until then, keep the attire equipped any time you enter the castle.
Other Helpful Crimson Desert Guides
While you’re progressing through the story, here are some other guides that’ll help:
- How to claim pre-order and deluxe edition items in Crimson Desert
- How to fast travel in Crimson Desert
- How to increase inventory space in Crimson Desert
- How to upgrade weapons and armor in Crimson Desert
- How to get iron ore in Crimson Desert
- How to get Twitch drops in Crimson Desert
- How to get a dragon in Crimson Desert
- How to get and use Palmar Pills in Crimson Desert
- How to ascend Lioncrest Watchtower in Crimson Desert
- Crimson Desert Reunion Quest Walkthrough
Where to Get Crimson Desert
Ready to dive in? Grab Crimson Desert on your preferred platform:
FAQs
Q: How do I enter Hernand Castle in Crimson Desert?
A: Equip the Hernandian Attire and approach any castle gate. The guards will inspect your outfit and let you in once they see you’re wearing the correct faction clothing.
Q: Where do I get the Hernandian Attire in Crimson Desert?
A: You get it for free by completing the “Actions Speak Louder Than Words” quest — just clean the chimney for the two villagers south of the city. You can also buy it from the Tailor’s Shop near Rhett’s blacksmith if you missed it.
Q: What happens if I remove the Hernandian Attire inside Hernand Castle?
A: The guards will immediately turn hostile. Run to the nearest gate and they’ll throw you out rather than kill you. Just re-equip the attire before going back in.
Q: Can I climb the wall to sneak into Hernand Castle?
A: Technically yes, but it alerts all the guards and you’ll die very quickly. Use the Hernandian Attire instead — it’s much faster and risk-free.
Q: Do I always need the Hernandian Attire to enter Hernand Castle?
A: No. After Chapter 3, the gates open permanently and you can enter freely in any outfit. Some Canta Armor set pieces also grant castle access as an alternative.
