 The Power of the Legion |
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The Imperial Legion has long been the finest fighting force in all of Tamriel. This is due to its adaptability and ability to take on whatever the enemy throws at it. As a commander, you must be able to change tactics, of course, but more importantly, you must take into account your environment and ensure that your troops are prepared.
The single most important part of logistics is the choice and design of armor. It is simply unacceptable to assume that one set of armor can be used to conquer an entire continent, and the Legion armors of different provinces are of diverse and varied designs.
Take, for example, the Black Marsh. It was in the preparation for invasion under the Empress Katariah that the Empire learned the valuable lesson of obtaining local knowledge, giving the contract to a former Argonian. The equipment used is designed to let Argonian spears simply glance off, while allowing supreme flexibility.
An interim level of flexibility over weight can be seen in Morrowind. Here the armor is as heavy as the familiar Cyrodilic style, but segmented to allow the troops to negotiate the often difficult terrain. In addition, the troops were fitted with larger shields to defend against the skilled Dunmer archers.
Another important consideration is how to display rank. This is vital to maintaining respect and thus discipline, as well as providing an incentive to pursue promotion. The standard set down has been to provide low level officers with Silver armor, and higher officers with Golden armor. This has caused problems at times: during the invasion of Hammerfell, some officers in their silver armor suffered from heat sickness, after becoming acclimatised to the light leather armor that was used at the time by the regular troops.
Food is also vitally important to a Legion. While the Legion can supply an invasion force with good, wholesome Cyrodilic rations, a peacekeeping force is expected to source their own. This is a difficult business, as recalcitrant natives may try to sabotage your supply chain, as well as troops sometimes not appreciating local cuisine. By finding the most mercantile section of the local population and using sufficient financial incentives a bond of trust can be formed, and troops can be weaned off normal food.
Research is always key though. Once the Legion had settled into Elsweyr, the order was given to seek out new sources of supply. It was not known at the time that Moon Sugar was an addictive narcotic, and that it was present in much of the Khajiiti cooking. Soon many Legion troops were hooked, and so the ban on the substance was implemented. For a time though, it could have been a blessing in disguise. There is some benefit to having troops who are constantly alert and quick to react.
Use this advice carefully and it should aid you in your command. May the Nine protect you, and all the men who serve you.