Man-at-Arms

{{#if:Man-at-Arms|Default Man-at-Arms}}
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Creature Statistics
Danger Rating	6}}
Type	Human}}
Size	Average}}
Terrain	Any}}

{{#if:Any|}} Men-at-Arms have AR 3 and carry shields.

Basics

A Man-at-arms is a professional soldier, but is not involved in nobility or land ownership such as a Knight is. They may come from many backgrounds. Sometimes a 3rd or 4th son of a lesser noble may enter the soldiery, or other times a skilled sergeant may rise through the ranks and accumulate enough wealth to equip themselves as a Man-at-Arms. Although the term is not exclusive, Men-at-Arms often serve in the personal retinue of Knights or nobles. Under this employment, meals and shelter are more frequent than that of a soldier in a company or a blade-for-hire. In this case, it is their duty to protect their liege lord and defeat his enemies. Equipped in sometimes matching, at the very least a collection of similar types of armour, they often wear the colours of whom they have been hired by.

Behaviour

Strictly obedient to their superiours, Men-at-Arms are rarely seen dawdling and are often always on duty. Making up the town watch, providing escort for a voyage, or the personal unit of a high-ranking Knight. Their formations are tight, and they practice daily to ensure their continued employment and warm food in their bellies.

Combat

The equipment of a man-at-arms is much superior to that of a levy soldier. They are often equipped with mail, or splint armor. They often carry shields to protect themselves in a heated battle. Unless supported by archers or spearmen, they lack any ability to fight at range. It is possible to pepper them with arrows from a distance, but their shields and armor means this will generally be ineffective. They lack magical abilities though, and thus cannot counter powerful spells such as fireballs or entangling vines. Their skills and armor makes the Man-at-Arms a powerful opponent, so engage them with great care.