- “Any of you scum even think about retreating, I’ll kill you myself!”
- —Anonymous Sergeant.[1a]
A Dwarf Shieldbreaker Sergeant.
Sergeants are professional warriors who’ve managed to impress either a Captain or a Noble with their ability to command men in battle. They lead small units of Soldiers, Militiamen, Mercenaries and Roadwardens, ensuring that orders are carried out to the letter. Some lead by setting a sterling example, others by terrifying their troops into quick obedience. Those who make their troopers lives a priority tend to be the most popular. The best Sergeants earn the respect of their Soldiers with their own blood and courage. They are often called upon to lead their men into danger and they swiftly become experts at assessing the capabilities of others.[1a]
A Superstitious Breed[]
Sergeants believe that they enjoy a blessed existence. Veterans of a score of battles, they have a knack of emerging unscathed – except for the scars that they proudly exhibit. They consider their longevity a blessing from the gods, and go to peculiar lengths to preserve this favoured status.[1a]
As he walks, a typical sergeant rattles from the dozens of charms and relics that adorn his uniform, such as relic bones, luck stones, or blessed coins. His magnificently curled moustache, waxed from ear to ear, is not simply an overstated nod to fashion – it is considered highly unlucky to trim his upper lip while on campaign.[1a]
A superstitious sergeant has a ward or talisman for every ominous occasion. For example, on the eve of a battle taking place during inauspicious occasions such as the Day of Folly, a solar eclipse, or the waxing of Morrslieb, a sergeant may avoid touching anything made of oak (oak being the traditional material for the construction of coffins), refuse to perform any action widdershins (it said that spirits are led to Morr’s kingdom in a counterclockwise direction), or may spend a sleepless night whispering prayers and supplication to each of the gods in the pantheon.[1a]
After all, it’s always best to prepare for every contingency.[1a]
State Troop Sergeants[]
- “Usually sporting impressive facial hair, barking orders, and instilling discipline, every regiment needs a decent sergeant.”
- —Description of State Troop Sergeant.[2a]
Regimental sergeants in Elector Count armies are made of stern stuff. They are veterans of many battles and have probably seen things that would turn the stomachs of the average man. Such bravery sees them rise in the ranks, leading regiments and steeling their men when wavering or barking orders in the midst of battle. The Empire needs men like these, but the very nature of their occupation means they are rare souls indeed. As such, they will often serve as the Champions of their respective regiments.[2a][3]
Famous Sergeants[]
- Markus Kruber - The former State Troop Sergeant of the 8th Ostland Swordsmen and a member of the famed Ubersreik Five.