[krpeters]

Well this is interesting.

I invite you all to try this yourselves. Ramp up taxes, then put a patroller with a medium army (say, 30 troops) to catch the rebels. But one twist: give the army orders "guard commander" and watch what happens.

Mine become instantly pathetic. I think there's some sort of combat mechanic involved, which is why flyers and troops with rapid movement are more effective. I wouldn't be surprised if there's a hidden battle happening somewhere.