The Iron Herd

A mercenary company operating in Teremia during the mythic age, the Iron Herd was a small but elite force led by the Vialan-Vostrosi Mercenary Captain Sean 'The Ox'  which rose to fame for its combatants furious and unfaltering skill in battle.

Composition

Manpower

The Iron Herd numbered only fifty and always worked as a total unit. Where larger forces were required they would raise local forces from nearby villages or occasionally hire other mercenaries to serve under them. In this instance they were known to arm and equip those peasants they hired and otherwise provide training to ensure they were all working well together.
Every man in the Iron Herd was expected to account for their own affairs so no additional supply forces were required or needed.

Equipment

The Iron herd was well equipped wearing chainmail garb and gambesons beneath their Vostrosi cloaks that came in the orange-red colours of their company. The Herd was split between twenty archers, twenty swordsmen, five axemen and fixe hammerers.
Archers were required to own both a long and short bow in addition to a small axe for melee engagements. They kept 20 arrows to a quiver but would often prepare new arrows specially augmented for their prey before an engagement.
Melee forces were required to possess a two-handed and one-handed form of their chosen weapon as well as a shield which could be kept on their horse unless commanded otherwise. 
Every member of the company was mounted with a war horse capable of carrying their camping gear, weapons and any equipment necessary for the completion of their role in the company.

Structure

The Iron Herd was led by 'The Ox' but possessed a 'first among equals' policy of leadership with roles being elected by the members and contracts being accepted following a majority agreement. The roles voted on were:
1 x Captain: Leads the company in battle and general direction, in battle oversees 9 other swordsmen
1 x Master of Swords: Leads the swordsmen
1 x Master of Bows: Leads the bowmen
1 x Master of Axes: Leads the axes
1 x Master of Hammers: Leads the hammerers
1 x Master of Watch: Protects the camp between missions, resolving disputes and assigning watch duties
1 x Master of Health: Manages the health needs including regular feeding and any surgical needs
1 x Master of Arms: Responsible for ensuring everyone is taking care of their armaments and equipment
1 x Master of Horses: Responsible for the welfare of the horses of the camp

Tactics

The Iron herd were known for using the terrain to their advantage often digging hidden spike pits or hiding forces before a battle. They were talented champions capable of taking on three or four enemies each and, despite their tribal origins, worked as an effective unit responding to one another's needs without challenge.

Type

Mercenary

Overall training Level

Trained

Assumed Veterancy

Veteran

Ranks & Titles

• Mercenary Captain