MILITARY

Military houses boast a strong tradition of soldiering service. They produce a large number of officers and generals, and they gain the most political power during wartime. They are often positioned to profit from wars by running and supporting weaponsmiths, mercenary companies, and the like; less scrupulous military houses often attempt to instigate conflict where none exists in hopes of increasing their fortunes. Some military houses make a practice of sponsoring adventurers (hoping that their glory and success will add to the house’s reputation), while others eschew the use of outside warriors, insisting that they alone are capable of handling any threat. Military houses frequently parlay their clout on the battlefield into political power, for they know full well that a kingdom is nothing without its armies.

Associated Classes: Aristocrat, expert, fighter, hexblade (Complete Warrior), paladin, psychic warrior (Expanded Psionics Handbook), ranger, warmage (Complete Arcane), warrior.

Associated Skills: Craft (armorsmithing), Craft (weaponsmithing), Handle Animal, Knowledge (nobility and royalty), Ride.

Supplies Available: Any mundane weapons and armor, war mounts, and riding gear. Additionally, the house might provide magic weapons or armor, but never in excess of 75% of the total aid provided.

Sample Contact: Sir Benedict de Langahas (fighter 7). Sir Benedict will provide a small mercenary company consisting of six warriors, each of one-half the PCs’ average level (maximum 6th), to aid the group in one specifi c battle. Once per year.