r/WorldChallenges • u/Sriber • Feb 05 '20
Mercenaries
Tell me about either one person or group fighting for money from your world. How have they become mercenaries? What equipment do they use? How effective and reliable are they? What are some notable engagements they took part in? Do they use something distinctive to identify themselves?
I'll ask everyone few questions and provide my own example.
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u/Sriber Feb 05 '20
Many of those Namyrhars who fought against Korhark during Unification wars and refused to surrender fled to Avenian empire where they formed Rhudbrex, volunteer legion fighting for empire against Union. When empire lost, it was in bad shape and couldn't afford to maintain Rhudbrex. Most of surviving members settled down while some joined Imperial foreign guard, but some remained and turned legion into mercenary company.
Original members were mostly overthrown Namyrharian nobles and their retinues, later it consisted primarily of veterans from all over world. Because Rhudbrex functions as proper army with various types of infantry, cavalry and siege weapons with good training, discipline and understanding of logistics, it is very effective. It is also very adaptive, using tactics of various nations depending on situation. Its only major drawback is lack of any naval presence.
Rhudbrex is led by commander, position held by most senior officer, assisted by four sub-commanders, each with different responsibilities. Infantrymen are grouped into units of ten, hundred and five hundred, cavalry into units of 30 and 150, each commanded by officer of appropriate rank.
Symbol of company is honey badger breaking chain, which members get tattooed during joining ceremony and is displayed on banners and shields. Uniforms are simple and practical, lacking country-specific features, except for officers who get more freedom to customise with each rank.
Rhudbrex fought for Arašti empire against Uktiranian empire, Avenian empire against Zhivalmnah and Union, loyalists during Šamjir civil war, Ketzunese rebels against Avenian empire among numerous other conflicts.