Perrenland's Military

Report to the Circle of Eight on Hiring Perrenese Mercenaries

by Gandalin the Grey

You have known for many years that Perrenland’s major contribution to the world has been its mercenary forces. There has been a lot of discussion about the reason for Perrenland troops being selected above any others for this role. What I have already told you about the compulsory military service provides the most basic reason for this - Perrenlands troops have all been trained as fighters since their late teen years. Other nations have warriors, some very good, but only Perrenland ensures that all its people are fighters. When we add the ability to develop further in this role, plus all the specialist areas that Perrenland can provide, you can see immediately why Perrenland troops are selected first.

I have provided here, what I have been able to find out about Perrenland's mercenaries. Unfortunately, it is not complete.

Organisation - Perrenland can provide forces at any level and for any military purpose. If you want troops to join you in a local battle; if you want a major force to help you win a war; or if you simply want someone to train your archers, Perrenland can provide. Depending on the way you do it, you can find "official" troops, often troops still involved in military service, who will come with their own equipment, do their work and get out of there OR you can find "unofficial" groups, privateers in fact, who will come and be armed by their employer.

Contact - Getting in touch with unofficial forces is as simple as entering the nearest village and asking where you could find what ever you need. You can always find a group of local adventurers if your purse is large enough.

For official troops, you need to find the closest Weibel. The Provost Marshall will then take down your requirements, and an answer will be given you within 48 hours.

Payment - Official troop payments depend on the role required, which often determines the type of personnel you require. The going rate is normal military pay plus 15%.

Unofficial rates can vary considerably more, or less - again depending on the role required, and what sort of people are interested in joining you.

All surviving troops would expect a substantial bonus if they complete their assigned tasks. In any case, official troops will be paid whether or not they succeed, and they would be paid a week in advance!

Dispersion - Official mercenaries will expect an additional allowance to cover costs of moving to the battleground. They would also need enough notice from you to have them arrive at the required destination in time. There are no guarantees, but once they leave home, they begin to earn your gold.

Unofficial troops will negotiate this aspect with you, but if you want troops somewhere by a special date, you could be expected to provide transport.

Loyalty - Official mercenaries will follow Perrenland laws, no matter where they are. They will follow orders that fall within these laws and will cooperate fully while you are maintaining your part of the deal. Should you break the contract, you will be arrested and returned to Perrenland for trial. There have been a number of leaders from other nations who have spent punitive time in Perrenland jails, or who have paid considerable amounts to return to their homes without imprisonment.

Unofficial mercenaries will basically do as they please, but loyalty within Perrenland expects mercenaries to complete their contracts. If the mercenaries can prove that the hirer was at fault, that hirer will find it almost impossible to hire any further troops. There are always the odd group or individual without such scruples, but do you really want to hire them?

Compensation - If you use official troops, the Weibel will give you an acceptable loss maximum. Exceed this figure and you enter the realms of compensation. This is usually money to provide for families, and to the Auszugen for loss of service.

Unofficial troops will negotiate their own terms with you.

Note: This material pre-dates my investigation into the Pax Mercuri. I am still working my way into this organisation, and will send a report on them soon.

Gandalin the Grey