Mercenary Soldiers

Though a majority of the Carrion Kingdoms' hired mercenaries are inexperienced rabble, fighters looking for a simple payday, there are those that are simply a cut above the rest. These are professional soldiers with codes of honour and, perhaps surprisingly, a concept of genuine loyalty. They might have an attachment to their employer or the kingdom they serve, or they might simply just enjoy the lifestyle such a job provides. Nevertheless, they are trusted to make up the rank-and-file of a Carrion Kingdom's army. Under these circumstances, they become something more than simple mercenary fodder. They find a cause to fight for, becoming a dedicated warrior of the kingdom. Though still a hired mercenary, these loyal and fierce warriors will fight harder than their lesser, inexperienced co-workers. This means they will stand firm against a harder enemy charge and put more effort behind each swing of their swords. They are also typically more used to life in the desert and the military strategy associated with desert fighting, making them significantly better and more efficient warriors. With their duty in mind, these soldiers pursue their enemies with ruthless purpose.
Rather unorthodoxly, units of these soldiers will often abandon the protective benefits of a shield - despite the open terrain of the desert. The accepted logic behind this choice, aside from cutting costs, is that swift and decisive strikes, supported by cavalry and war beasts, are more effective than a slow, methodical advance. Since they normally decide to fight without their shields, these soldiers will typically wield just their khopesh swords, with some even choosing to duel wield. Though the armies of the Carrion Kingdoms rely on war beasts for proper offensive power, these infantry soldiers still serve a purpose in engaging weaker positions, as well as the units that might threaten the treasured war beasts.