The Mass Combat Rules are different to those used in most fantasy RPGs. Rather than being an attempt to use a simplified War Game, I have decided to continue with the heroic themes normally found in RPGs. Rather than commanding the troops of an army, the PCs are sent off on battle-critical missions that are resolved in the same way as all other PC encounters. The overall battle happens in the background - however, the outcome of the battle depends on how well the PCs carry out their mission.

Heroic Missions can range from sabotage, tactical missions, intelligence gathering and counter intelligence. In some cultures it might include challenging a leader to single combat - however, that doesn't work in all cultures. Some thoughts …

• Sneak round behind the enemy and destroy_the_boats / kill_the_mules they are using to bring supplies.
• We know the enemy have a 'Shock Unit' concealed on our left flank. Seek them out and destroy them.
• We don't know how large their reserve is. Sneak into their camp and check.
• We think there are enemy scouts in the woods. Wind them and kill them. Chase them off at the least.
• Sneak into the enemy camp and disrupt them by fire, magic or whatever else you can think of. Just make sure you get out OK.
• The enemy is holding 5 trolls in reserve. Stop them getting to the battlefield.
• Their necromancer was seen heading for an old battle-grave. Find him and stop him.

It could be almost anything that can be played out reasonably quickly and represent a short mission. Every mission completed earns a combat bonus for your army. The more effective you are - the bigger the bonus.

For every Defence Point a settlement has, it can send one unit to fight in the army. Each defence point in the Campaign System represents a CR8 unit. It might be a dozen foot soldiers, or a few cavalry - BUT it still equates to a CR8 unit. Clearly veteran and cavalry units are composed of fewer members and, if you need details and gear, there are some examples described in this section.

To get defence points and to build an army you need to pay for and develop buildings with defence points - most of which are listed on the Urban Military developments page.