The Fists of Heaven

Distinctly armoured in leather breastplates embossed with a clenched fist, the Fists of Heaven are Seanchan light infantry with a reputation for their determination and effectiveness. Often first on the scene in small skirmishes, the Fists wear little metal so as not to slow them – with the exception of the unmistakable insectoid Seanchan helmet.

Each bearing crossbows firing black bolts and small mêlée weapons, they are traditionally short in stature, if not as slight as morat'raken.

The Fists of Heaven have several principle uses among the Seanchan armed forces. Used for rapid response, they can often head off an enemy movement and slow manoeuvres in time for heavier troops to arrive. With little armour, they are very vulnerable to heavy soldiers and ranged troops – archers, and so on – which makes casualty rates quite high. However, being nimble can be quite an advantage in more difficult terrain, such as heavily forested or rocky areas, so it is of no surprise that they make good guerrilla and ambush soldiers.

Additionally, they have gained some prominence as fallback scouting units in cases where visibility from the air – therefore, visibility from a raken – is compromised, and as escorts for sul'dam and damane, where in the event of a skirmish they can prevent soldiers reaching them while the damane channel.

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