History of the Long Patrol
The swift shield of Salamandastron, bounding forever to defend the western shores from darkness.
The Long Patrol is the renowned hare regiment of Salamandastron's army, serving under the Badger Lord of Salamandastron. These long-legged hares are the swift and fierce defenders of the western coast, standing as a mobile shield against vermin armies and tyrants, rather than being based at Redwall Abbey or composed of badgers.
- Primary Species
- Hares
- Base of Operations
- Salamandastron (Western Coast)
- Core Mission
- Defend the western coast and Salamandastron under the Badger Lord's command
- Leadership Style
- Answers to the Badger Lord of Salamandastron
- Notable Trait
- Unwavering courage, speed, and martial prowess
Lore & Background
The Long Patrol operates under the direct authority of the Badger Lord of Salamandastron, not the Redwall Abbey community. Their distinctive armor is forged in Salamandastron's forges, not by mice and squirrels of Redwall. As hares, they are known for their speed, wit, and ferocity in battle, wielding a variety of weapons from lances to slings. While fierce in combat, they also show compassion, often sparing defeated enemies who show remorse and helping to rebuild communities torn apart by war.
In Their Own Story
The wind howled through the High Trees as a lone badger rider crested the hill, his armor scarred from battles long forgotten. Below, in the valley of Mossflower, the smoke of a burning village rose into the twilight sky. He did not hesitate; he spurred his horse forward, the heavy thud of hooves echoing like a drumbeat of war. 'Not on my watch,' he muttered, drawing a broadsword that gleamed with cold steel. The shadows lengthened, but the Long Patrol never retreated until the light returned.
Reader's Guide
The Long Patrol is more than just a military unit; it represents the enduring hope of Mossflower. Founded by the ancestors of Redwall's badgers, this order ensures that no tyranny can rise unchecked in the lands surrounding the Abbey. Members of the Patrol are chosen for their strength and wisdom, often serving as the first line of defense against marauding vermin gangs or evil sorcerers. They travel light but strike hard, utilizing guerrilla tactics and overwhelming force when necessary to crush threats before they can organize. Throughout history, famous badgers like Martin the Warrior's successors have led these patrols, ensuring that the legacy of peace remains intact. Their presence is a deterrent to evil, and their stories are told in songs around every campfire from the Sea of Mists to the Southern Cliffs.
Did You Know?
- The Long Patrol is exclusively composed of hares, not badgers, and serves as the military regiment of Salamandastron's army.
- Their armor is crafted in the forges of Salamandastron, not at Redwall Abbey.
- The Patrol answers directly to the Badger Lord of Salamandastron, not to Redwall's community.
- Their primary duty is to defend the western coast and Salamandastron, not to act as wandering monks.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary mission of the Long Patrol?
Their core duty involves traveling across Mossflower to defend innocent creatures from vermin threats and tyranny. They act as a mobile shield, intervening only when peace is severely disturbed by darkness.
Which animal species serves in the Long Patrol?
The order is composed almost exclusively of badgers due to their renowned strength and martial skill. While allies may fight alongside them, the official ranks are reserved for these stoic warriors.
Where does the Long Patrol base its operations?
They operate out of Redwall Abbey on the island of Mossflower, returning there between missions. This sacred home serves as their sanctuary and strategic headquarters for organizing patrols across the land.
What kind of weapons do Long Patrol members carry?
Warriors typically wield heavy wooden clubs or staves that are often reinforced with iron for combat effectiveness. They rely on close-quarters strength rather than bows or other ranged tools during their campaigns.
Why is the Long Patrol considered legendary in Redwall history?
Their unwavering courage has secured peace throughout Mossflower for centuries against overwhelming odds. Fans recognize them as the silent guardians who ensure the legacy of Martin the Warrior endures through generations.
More in Lore & History
Elsewhere in the Redwall universe
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