The Royal Armies

For most of its recent history Arginet was at peace, broken only by a few minor overseas campaigns and the occasional case of bandits, and as a result its standing armies were rather distant from the political spotlight. The Breaking has changed all that. Now that skirmishes with interplanar beasts are a common occurrence, generals are as likely as dukes to hold the attention of the crown, and both military spending and recruitment are at all-time highs.

The Royal Armies are among the most meritocratic institutions in Arginet. Having the money or connections to start out with a commission always helps, but it is entirely possible to rise through the ranks right from the bottom, and this has become easier as soldiers now see a lot more combat than they used to.

The Armies have a reputation for being more concerned with the material than the spirit world, but they have some support from the priesthood, and (significantly) their ranks contain plenty of witches trained in combat alongside the more conventional line troops. They’ve also been very quick in learning how to deal with manifested spirits, and are fairly pragmatic about battle casualties returning to life.

More than most people, they face harder and more dangerous times thanks to the Breaking, but they also face many opportunities. They are more vital to the Kingdom’s survival than they have ever been before, and have the resources and organisation to hold together against the greatest threats.

Five things about the Armies

• Fight for the crown. The Armies are loyal to the crown alone, and stand apart from the politics of the noble houses.
• In our hour of need. After many years playing a minor role the Armies have become vital to the survival of the nation.
• Led by the best. The Armies are highly meritocratic. Promotions and commissions are awarded to the most capable regardless of their background.
• Pragmatic and practical. They are willing to use any tool to complete their objectives, and take pride in being free from the hidebound rules of the nobility.
• Into the jaws of death. Soldiers and officers must defend the nation from unnameable dangers, and are expected to do so with courage and valour.

What the Armies will never do

Everyone in the armies is expected to obey standing orders. Although most officers give their subordinates a degree of free reign, disobeying the rules of engagement set by the high command will be viewed extremely dimly; looters in particular can expect dishonourable discharge or execution.