Changes

Passing from Whiteshield to Guardsman is seen not simply as a promotion, but a changing point in a recruit's life. Only those who have distinguished themselves in battle are allowed to become guardsmen. Some regiments simply require that a whiteshield participate in battle without giving way to fear, while others require them to draw or collect a trophy of war from a foe, be it a banner or even a piece of a slain enemy. They are afterwards considered adults and given the right to wear the regimental symbols on their uniform, and are formally inducted into the Imperial Guard. More important are the unofficial rituals unique to each regiment and culture, which can include tattoos or further tests of courage such as receiving a ritual scar without a cry of pain.{{Fn|1}} Perhaps now reflecting on how lucky they were to survive, the fanatical drive to prove themselves cools and gives way to prudent experience and a more cautious will to survive now that they have earned the right to be guardsmen.{{Fn|1}}

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