In a world full of terrifying dangers, independent settlements are particularly vulnerable to attack. Without any sort of formal defence force it often falls on communities to organise protection amongst themselves. The bravest and most proficient citizens form a volunteer force of enthusiastic amateurs, who serve as much time as they can, protecting others against the many dangers which their community face. 

These are the Militias: patrolling the nearby countryside, maintaining fortifications and defending their way of life against all those who threaten them.