Dynastic Army

The **Dynastic Army** (***Astaril Veli*** in Mitai) is the primary force of the Dynastic Military, the main fighting force of the Shanorin Dynasty. It is one of the most advanced armies known to exist on Narus, outclassed only by the Montiac Army. Though no official numbers exist, estimates point to roughly 470k in service.

The Dynastic Army was founded in ME 264 with the formation of the Dynasty. Prior to the last few decades, the military was of little importance to the Dynasty due to the lack of an immediate threat. It underwent a rapid modernization under Vaeril Shanorin, primarily as a show of matching strength with the Montiac Empire. Those that serve in the military will reach the "Adanor" level of the Precursorism caste, which helps to bolster the number of volunteers. Chasa are the only species allowed to serve directly in the military, but other races are allowed in support roles and lightly equipped cannon fodder.

## Personnel

### Service

Though technically a volunteer army, the societal benefits citizens are given by joining the military in some form make it practically compulsory for followers of Precursorism. Chasa may join any branch and attain any rank, but all other species are forced into lowly army positions to achieve their service. These positions mostly depend on ones species. Nibayr are used almost solely as canon fodder, while Marib are used as skirmishers or light infantry. Nilotici, due to their size and strength, are clad in heavy armor and positioned at the front of the army. The Lizard-folk are used to absorb ranged attacks and, should they survive long enough, inflict heavy losses on the enemy. Other species serving in the Dynastic Army have too small populations to have dedicated roles, and are lumped in with the Nibayr.

### Equipment

Despite Precursorisms restrictions on use of Human technology, military use is seen as working towards the fulfillment of the religion, and thus the Dynastic Army is allowed free use of available tech. This has seen it gain a considerable advantage on the Montiac Empire on a technological scale, although it still lacks practical experience. General soldiers are given a sword, shield, and armor. Equipment is painted in the Dynasty's gold and purple colors. The quality of these items depends on ones rank, with the lowest soldiers getting the most basic equipment and vice versa. More advanced equipment includes castlight-lined swords for easier cutting, castlight shield which weigh considerably less, and reactive armor which strengthens injured portions of its user. Other soldiers will be given specialized equipment depending on their role. Ranged troops, for example, utilize extremely light armor and a castlight ranged weapon. This weapon is capable of a much higher fire rate than the standard bow, and doubles as a melee weapon should the soldier be forced to fight. That being said, they are considerably less practical than a bow.

Nibayr troops are given very little, usually thin leather armor and a small sword, but better equipment can be earned should one survive long enough. Marib are given small daggers, a weak bow, and gold/purple colored clothing. Finally, Nilotici are given heavy albeit cheap armor and a heavy weapon, usually a hammer or axe. These will usually be 5-6ft long, and be wielded with both hands. Their tails, dragging behind them, are adorned with spikes and basic armor as to not be a weakness.