The Imperial Army consists of several divisions of soldiers – the Conscripts, who are villagers drafted into service and given basic military training, and who often become militia in their home towns after their military service is done; the Defenders, who are responsible for defending the Empire against invasions and major threats, and many of whom are retired adventurers who have sought out a steady paycheck and an occasional military campaign; and the Knights, who are responsible for the Empire's offensives, claiming new colonies, etc. Noble families also have their own private armies which are contributed to the Imperial Army during times of war.