11,681
edits
Changes
From Warhammer 40k - Lexicanum
no edit summary
'''Strongholds''' are [[Squat]] settlement centres. They were generally founded during the original colonisation and those produced later are known as [[Newhold]]s''Newholds''. Strongholds also often join together under [[League]]s to form defensive pacts.
Generally a Stronghold develops around a mine and its associated living quarter although some later developments were not associated with mining. A hereditary Lord rules each stronghold and is protected and supported by the [[Hearthguard]]. The Hearthguard are the elite of a Squat army and the servants to the Lord while also protecting the Lord when he goes to war. Each Stronghold has a group of ''Brotherhood'' or ''War-Brethren'' which forms the core of the Squat armed forces for the Stronghold. Every Squat has an obligated 30-70 year service period although they may not be called upon to fight until they have sired two sons and raised them to maturity. This helps protect the continuity of the race from the Stronghold's military activities. A Squat can then retire from active duty with his honour and probably some wealth and take up a position of responsibility in his family's business.
