So far we have described units of troops as consisting of identical rank-and-file troopers. However, more often than not, warriors march to war under the leadership of a captain or some such officer, to the accompaniment of a drum or horn, and beneath the fluttering standards of their cities and rulers. The regiments of the Empire march under flags bearing the arms of their Electors and their Emperor. Bretonnians go to war before the glittering heraldic banners of their Lords and King. Orcs wave banners covered in glyphs proclaiming the might and power of their chieftains.

Standards and drums also have a practical value: they are used to signal to the troops, direct their unit's movement, and provide a highly visible point around which formation changes and manoeuvres can be made. The rules described below represent the boost that standards and musicians give to a unit's fighting prowess.