Fiction:United Tribes of Mendel/Warrior-Legion

"The cold breeze upon my brow, the smell of many men beside me, eager and ready for battle. The sound of snow crunching beneath our boots, and those of our enemies. It is in these moments where I find my life, in the few seconds that seem to grow into minutes, before a battle is joined. There, I have a few moments to truly meditate on what my existence means, and pray that what I am about to do, will be remembered fondly by my Clan and tribe."

- Unknown Mendel Warrior.

The United Tribes of Mendel dedicate their forces to mastering warfare to the best of their ability, fighting with unrivaled discipline and strategy. While seen as wild and savage warriors, prone to in-fighting, on the field, the Tribes organized and fit their soldiers in a way that makes them hard to counter. Each race employs strategies to help the others fight. The strongest of them are usually the Trog'uan, their tribal founders and leaders, while the most common are usually the Ugandalorians, the most populous of the Mendel tribes and Clans.

Each soldier fights for the honor of their clan and family, being more warrior then soldier, and more individually driven then by organization. Still, discipline is maintained by their officers, elders among their Clans who the youngsters follow for guidance and leadership. Soldiers are often amped up in battle by their officers, who claim the enemy has somehow insulted or killed past clan members. Being incredibly concerned with their Clan honor and the prestige of their clans, these words commonly whip them into a frenzy, and many foes, whether they actually have attacked their clans or not, learn to fear them.

Still, they are not some unruly mob, for the Mendel would not have survived this long if they where. While their discipline is loose compared to others, that does not mean it is non-existent. Certain things are expected of each warrior, and each does their duty, not only to bring themselves honor and prestige among their tribes, but to protect their families and maintain the alliance that has brought all of the Mednel races together, from the cannibalistic Orgaat, to the mighty and feared Trog'uan.

Soldiers identify members of the same clan or territory by how they paint their armor and what color, as well as the symbol tattooed on their chest, usually dedicated to a certain Clan.

Infantry
Warband= "The Tribes are our home, and we are their guardians!"

The most basic of all infantry forces of the Mendel armies, Warbands are soldiers and younger members of the tribe organized into a force of fighting men and sent out to fight with the basic training and discipline expected of their people. They may eager, and just a tad blood-thirsty, but every member of the Warband knows exactly what is expected of him or her, and just what he needs to do to keep the Tribes alive.
 * Weapons - Spears.
 * Defenses - Light armor, Oval Shield.

Members of the Warband are composed of low class members of a Clan who wish to earn fame and fortune for themselves and their families, and move up the chain in the Clan. Due to this, they cannot afford the mighty armor of their richer kindred and elder members, and must rely upon lower-grade armor and weapons. Lower grade, however, does not mean weak. These are still Mendel after all, and can fight just as well as any other warrior.

Their armor is rather basic, wearing the famous helmet their kindred are known for, as well as covering the shoulders and forearms, but leaving their chests bear, covered only in blue or red paint. They move fast, and strike faster, to compensate for their lack of armor protection. Richer Clans and cities, however, can afford to dress their Warband in fine armor as well as their other warriors.

The Warbands are mostly organized to police cities, protect trade routs and provide the meat of every army. It speaks volumes of the Mendel's abilities, that despite relying more on numbers, they still succeed in doing very well in battle, with few loses. To prove their position and power, Warband members will commonly go on raids and cattle-thefts, a common tradition among Mendel Warriors. This is done to keep their sense sharp, and keep them fit and able to move quickly. While Warband members will steal cattle from one another, it is considered disgraceful to take crops from another Clan or tribe member.

Warrior= "Though the path is dark, our blades shall light the way!"

The proven members of the Clans and Tribes, Warriors march to war with ages of expertise and years of fighting under their command. Such members of a Clan are respected and feared for their abilities. The Warriors have years of expertise, eager to fight and die for the cause of their clans and tribes and to defend those that need them. When a threat arrives in their lands, every good warrior immediately answers the call of their tribal kings and priests to defend all that is good and for their goddess.
 * Weapons - Swords, axes.
 * Defenses - moderate armor, shields.

Warriors are the higher echelons of the lower class of the Clans, men and women alike forming into these fierce, noble warriors, ready to face any foe, with valor and skill at arms. Their armor is well forged and well built, sturdy and flexible in all regards, and can turn aside most blades and blows from their foes' weapons. They come to the field with axes and swords, forged by their black smiths and armor-lords, covered in runes to link them to the ancestors and gods. Although seen as savage and barbaric, the Warriors come to the field with armor and weapons that one would not expect from such a "barbaric" people.

Warriors cover their bodies in the same paint as Warbanders, painted and curved over their bodies in the runes and symbols of their Clans and tribes. Over this, they wear the leather and iron armor, protecting them from their blows. While the Warbands are fast and furious in battle, the Warriors lumber to battle, charging once the enemy is dealing with the Warbands, and striking them down before they realize they are beset. Despite being "professional", discipline is not what the Warriors are known for. They are fury and rage in battle, and charge with bloodlust, each and every one depending on valor. Valor has them many battles, and there is no reason to stray from it.

Warriors are usually the ones that go about and help repair and rebuild the settlements they take, and settling into the areas they conquer as first wave settlers and colonists. These warriors are skilled in battle, and whenever the enemy comes back to their lands, Warriors will always be the first to line up to fight.

Chosen Warrior= Chosen Warriors are soldiers first and always. They have either risen in position, or born into the position of a Chosen Warrior. They are feared and respected by the other inhabitants of the Mendel tribes, if not for their position, then for their quick tempers and skill at arms. Chosen are always right in the middle of a conflict within the Tribes, either fighting foes that threaten the Clans and Tribes, or inter-clan warfare, to prove their mettle and skill in battle.
 * Weapons - Swords.
 * Defenses - Heavy Armor, shields.

Chosen are among the higher caste of the Tribes, respected as much as the Draiiuds and rulers. The Chosen will fight dangerous beasts from the wilds, or protect the Clans, being the first and last line of defense against their foes, no matter who they are. Other Chosen tend to wander the territory of the Mendel, fighting for those that cannot defend themselves. These wanders seem to attract trouble wherever they go, with local warriors commonly challenging them to prove their strength, or rulers cajoling them to fight on their behalf for honor and glory.

Chosen use finely tipped swords to fight in battles, their swords larger, sharper, and better forged then those used by other Warriors. These troops can slice and cut through enemies with ease, going to battle to fight the strongest and most powerful of the enemy, striking down enemies with their mighty war swords, agility and strength. The Chosen are adored in Heavy Armor, chain and plate mail, and able to sustain any damage. Other Mendel Warriors will commonly try to smash through Chosen Armor, and have little luck, due to the skill used in forging it.

Chosen, when not in battle, do not partake in the Cattle Stealing and petty inter-clan warfare that other warriors do to prove their valor. In their mind, they do not need to take someone else's life stock to prove how bold and mighty they are, and instead prove it on the field of battle, against the Mendel enemies, such as Zartusan raiders, Fimiari, and others.

All Chieftains and Kings in Mendel society, have Chosen Warriors in their retinue and as bodyguards. They have sworn on their ancestors to defend the Kings and Queens till their dying breath. As such, they can be relied upon to hold the line and cut down their foes when they come to fight. Chosen do not turn on their rulers for power, unlike many of the more "Feral" and savage Mendel, taking their oaths on the ancestors and gods very seriously. To turn on these oaths, will risk retribution from other Chosen for breaking their oaths.

Gallowgran= Mendel Warfare has changed very little for centuries, even when they first formed their Clans. Gallowgran are a special subsect of Chosen Warriors, far older, deadlier, and more experienced in battle. Gallowgran carry the mighty Mendel Claymores that their race is known for. Only the strongest and greatest of the Clans may carry them, Gallowgran march together in small, elite bands, heading towards the greatest enemies in battle. Feared even by their Chosen comrades, Gallowgran are the fiercest of the tribal warriors of the Mendel.
 * Weapons - Claymores, Great Axes.
 * Defenses - Heavy Armor.

Gallowgran have a deep history behind their ranks, know for their sturdy service and strong skill at arms. They are famous for not only their defense of the Mendel people, but also for their willingness to work for other races that can afford them. Gallowgran will commonly march for a cause they deem worthy and honorable for their allies and strangers, and even sometimes enemies that are worthy of respect. They command a hefty price, though are know to cut their wages down if a people are fighting for their lives, even going to fight for free, and sealing enemy equipment elsewhere to make up for it.

Gallowgran, once their Clans are threatened, will appear before the battle, and join their comrades in standing against their foes once more. Although more disciplined, they are still furious and dangerous, wild warriors in battle, never to be under-estimated. They can turn the tide of many battles, and are eager to face mighty beasts in the defense of their Clans. Hefting Great Claymores and Axes, Gallowgran are typically seen charging at the most powerful beasts in battle. Their armor is durable, heavy plating and chainmail cover their bodies.

Gallowgran are less common as bodyguards and retinue for High Kings and rulers, as they prefer to travel and defend others and test their skills in battle. An even more common practice among them is to find beasts such as giants and hostile dragons, and slay them that happen to be threatening villages and the like. Such achievements will allow them to adorn their armor with the pelts of mythic beasts they have slain.

Draiiud= Draiiuds are the priest and tribal leaders of the Mendel Tribes and Clans, guiding their kings and chieftains in battle and politics. As with warfare, little has changed with Mendel leadership. Their chieftains, Patriarch or Matriarch, lead the tribe in warfare and general leadership, but Draiiuds managed the day to day running of the Clan, their laws, education and other important things in order to keep the tribe running. While they have sworn to not fight in he front of battle, this does not preclude them from joining battle when they take up re guard and support action. When battle comes, Draiiuds will join their forces, taking up sickles and sacrificial daggers in battle. They have sworn never to fight on the front, but, when attacked, will join the battle, carving up their foes with brutal precision.
 * Weapons - Sickles, Daggers, magic abilities.
 * Defenses - Light Armor.

Draiiud's ceremonial weapons are their chief means of defense against attackers, however, their role is not one of attack, but rather, to inspire and push their troops forward with their presence. The Draiiud and their retinue will wait behind fighting lines, chanting and giving prayers to the gods for victory and glory in battle. These chants, combined with the strange and disturbing appearance of the Draiiud, commonly disturb and dishearten their foes in battle. Many a times, enemies will target Draiiud in an attempt to break Mendel spirits and destroy their history. After all, Mendel are easier to conquer when their peoples' history is gone. These attacks on their holy leaders, however, merely push them to greater acts of bravery and resolve.

Draiiud dress in their ceremonial armor and cloaks, as well as the various furs and warpaint common in their society. The Draiiuds are further protected by a retinue of warriors who have sworn to protect the Draiiud, his apprentices and his family members in battle.

Draiiud are central to life in the Tribes. If the Warriors and people are the body of the Tribes, then the Draiiud are the life blood, flowing from it's core and roots to other areas. It is they that pass the laws and keep order within the Clans, make the Clan Lord or Lady's word law, and help guide the people. They have studied the stars, the earth and the universe and work to find The Mother Goddess' work in everything, from the trees and the rivers, to the people and animals. It is a cardinal sin to kill a Draiiud, and it is even more unheard of to strike one in anger.

It is this connection to nature that gives them their most potent abilities; Magic. Unlike other races, who can call forth magic from their very being, Draiiud tape into the power of nature, and by extension, Dia Matrona, and use this to channel their abilities, to empower their allies, smite their foes, and variety of other things. As such, this causes the people to show a great love and respect for their land, and take care of it, so Dia Matrona can continue to guide them and gift them with the power to face their foes. When invading other lands, Draiiud commonly carry special runes and tablets enchanted with magic from the forests and wetlands so they can call upon magic, even when the area around them is weaker in magical content.

Hounds of Collain= The Hounds of Collain are the heaviest hitters among the Mendel infantry, warriors so embraced with blood-lust and anger, eager for bloodshed and warfare, where ever it may come. Drinking great elixirs and snorting drugs concocted by the Draiiud, The Hounds will commonly engage in head-butting contests with one another, blooding themselves up before the battle, leaving them frothing at the mouth and ready to fight at the slightest trigger. Their allies fear these brutes, avoiding them at all costs and crying everything they can not to anger them, as the Hounds have been known to attack their own allies in battle.
 * Weapons - Maces
 * Defenses - Light Armor.

The Hounds are named after a Mendel warrior from their mythology, named Collain, a master warrior said to be the son of Hoorangiir, and prone to losing himself in battle. Collain was said to have gathered the Four artifacts of the Tribes, and are kept safe by the High King. To honor Collain, these warriors try to replicate him in battle and his tendency to enter a bloodthirsty battle rage. In honor of his ancestry, and the color of his tunic and eyes, paint themselves purple instead of Blue like other Mendel Warriors.

The Hounds carry with them massive maces into battle, and once they reach an enemy force, they will fly into the foe, smashing through foes with everything they have. Nothing can stall their attacks, for they fear no death. Burning, sword slashes, arrows falling upon them, nothing will make a Hound retreat or fall back until he's sure he's cut down his foes.

In battle, they wear little armor, merely covering their legs in plating, and covering their lower arms in bands. The rest of their bodies, are covered in purple tattoos/warpaint, which they believe contains magical properties to protect them from their foes and allow them to channel the Rage of Collain and Hoorangiir in battle. Despite, Hounds are not used in siege battles, as, the Mendel fear that when they take a city, the Hounds will butcher any innocents in their path, something the Mendel do not want. Outside of battle, the Hounds commonly guard the Temples and shrines the Mendel build and maintain, and act as guards for the Draiiuds.

Archers
Kerns= The Mendel are loathed to change anything in their style of combat. What has worked for centuries, they figure, will continue to work into the modern age, and serve them well enough. As such, frontier skirmisher units are still put in place in their armies to harass heavy infantry units and eliminate foes before other forces join the battle. These light, fast moving troops are called Kerns. Made up of young hunters, poor warriors and others who can not fight on the front but still wish to do their part, Kerns gain their experience though the hunt.
 * Weapons - Javelin.
 * Defenses - Light Armor.

They are quick moving troops, able to move through the underbrush and forest with little difficult, and little sound. Even in the snow and tundra that comes to their homes, little can be heard or seen of them, Kerns leaving little behind, while they scout ahead of the main force, track armies, and lay traps in preparation for the battle to come. These warriors are largely the same as the Warband Units that make up Mendel armies, being roughly the same rank within the army, but not within the Tribe. Kerns are lower, due to either younger age, or being poorer then Warbanders. Some enter the Kern units by choice, having excellent senses and tracking abilities from years spent outside the Tribe.

To befit their status, they are commonly given little armor, other then a padded shirt and trousers, and tied with belts and the like to keep it wrapped across their bodies. Loose clothing can catch easily on branches and the like, and as such, Kerns will do this to keep loose clothing from snatching on anything, if they choose to even wear a shirt at all, some going bear chested, to not only save money, but be able to move faster. They carry with them a small shield, their only form of protection that offers any degree of defense. In battle, they carry long, throwing spears.

Their favored strategy is to stick to woods on the side of enemy roads, and wait for forces to come up. Once they have spotted their foes, they will take up their spears, and begin throwing them at the foe, taking as many down as they can, before running off into the forests, carefully avoiding their pre-arranged traps they have set up. The other, is in the open battlefield, where they will stand behind the main army. The front line troops will form defensive lines, as the Kerns throw javelins at the charging enemy to soften them up.

Due to their own stubborn nature, the Kerns have existed for some time among the Highland and Lowland Clans of the Mendel, and will most likely persist for many years.

Hunters= Of a higher standing in their tribes then those of the Kerns, Hunters are richer men and women who can afford, and have trained in, the art of the bow and arrow. While not a popular weapon in the Tribes, enough encounters with the foe have taught them the value that bows can bring to an army, and just how much damage they can do. The warriors who use these bows are brutal hunters, men and women give to easily slaughtering their foes with volley upon volley of well aimed arrow fire, covering their allies with withering waves of bows and darts. While nothing will earn the respect of a tribe quite like Mendel Claymores, the inherit skill and power of the bow gives quite a few Mendel pause when considering these troops and just how much damage they can do.
 * Weapons - Bows and Arrows.
 * Defenses - Light Armor.

Hunters are respected among their tribe, as, like Kerns, they are able to track pray for miles, and bring back food and supplies the tribe will need for the long, harsh winter months. Time with their fathers and mothers has taught them to know all the sensitive areas of their targets and what to hit. Be it the eyes of the armored Jala'ki beast, or the arteries of the Tesa, Hunters seem possessed of finer skills then what one would expect of such an aggressive people, having patience in the hunt view can match.

They yield the simple yet effective bows developed by their kind of hunting, drawn of Kaasha trees, and resistant to rain and harsh weather, making them effect in any battlefield condition. They can rain down torrents of arrows upon their foes from a relatively long distance away, and with more accuracy then most others. However, if one manages to close with them, they should not expect an easy fight. Although they wear light armor, like the Kerns, Hunters yield deadly axes and shields in battle, allowing them to chop their opponents to bloody pieces.

Hunters are of relatively the same rank and status as Warriors within the tribe, though prefer the more careful and methodical methods of war over the hot-blooded, straightforward approach adopted by their kin. Despite their cold nature in battle, they are happy to rejoin the other clans in celebration, gathering at the tavern to celebrate their victory, and enjoy life just a little longer before war can call them back to their deadly business.

Cavalry
Clan Cavalry=
 * Weapons - Swords.
 * Defenses - Heavy armor, shields

Charioteers=
 * Weapons - Throwing spears, Swords
 * Defenses - Light armor.

Allied Forces
Orgaat Carnivores=
 * Weapons - Pole Arms, Spears.
 * Defenses - Light leather armor.

Orgaat Hunters=
 * Weapons - Hunting Rifles.
 * Defenses - Light Leather Armor.

Orgaat Riders=
 * Weapons - Spears.
 * Defenses - Light Leather armor.

Kumankar Fliers=
 * Weapons - Swords, claws.
 * Defenses - Exoskeleton