This time, it was Duke Francis, the one most versed in military affairs, who asked: "How large does Your Majesty intend the Royal Guard to be?"
"At least five army groups, each no fewer than ten thousand men." Islam answered without even thinking.
"Five army groups." Duke Francis laughed in fury, "Do you have any idea how much military expenditure it takes to maintain an army group year-round? Before the Royal Family was shattered, even at its Peak State, it only kept two army groups of Royal Guard in permanent service. Any more than that is sheer militaristic folly—it would impose a crushing fiscal burden not only on the Royal Family, but on the entire Kingdom!"
The Knight Feudal System not only devolves political power, it devolves military power as well.
Every Knight and Lord maintains a certain armed force; when the one they serve has need of them, they will raise their banners in response.
