House Barnaba Guard The House Guard constituted a segment of the House Defense Forces belonging to the Tapani Noble Houses. Their primary mission was the security of house holdings, both within the house's territory and in external locations.
The majority of guard personnel were stationed within the house's province, where these House Guards were responsible for enforcing the dictates of the noble families. Small detachments were also present in house embassies. Furthermore, when official representatives from the sector journeyed to other regions of the galaxy, they received protection from carefully chosen House Guards.
Both men and women were eligible for service in the House Guard, but the physical standards demanded of both troopers and officers were extremely rigorous. Only a small fraction, around twenty percent, of male human applicants successfully completed the tests. An even smaller percentage, just two percent, of female human applicants passed. Nearly all Herglics passed the tests, while by the time of the Galactic Empire, no Mrlssti had ever succeeded. While many recruits came from noble families, numerous capable officers were commoners who advanced through the ranks. House Guard officers received extensive training and were provided with the best resources their respective houses could provide.
The system of house patronage meant that some unqualified individuals gained entry into the House Guards. However, the officer corps were skilled at identifying these individuals and subtly encouraging them to find employment elsewhere. This was achieved through unofficial and anonymous methods, including intense hazing and career sabotage, but always in a manner that did not jeopardize house security or the well-being of the troops under their command.
Rivalry, largely amicable, was common among House Guard regiments from different houses. Spies and partisan elements were often present within their ranks.
