Northern
Dreamer
So I'm working on story about a medieval man who in his youth deserted from the local army to make his fortune and glory as a mercenary. The story starts when the man is in his early 50's and he has long given up the life of the sword for many years.
The issue I'm running into is how to refer to his previous life as a mercenary.
I was originally just going to go with 'retired mercenary', but then of course the inner editor kicks in and I start to doubt myself.
Was the concept of being retired from something even a thing in medieval times? The word retired itself sounds to me to be more of a modern invention.
I'm not sure what other word I could use. 'Former Mercenary' sounds a bit flat but the best I could come up with.
'Veteran Mercenary' maybe? But that kind of implies a sort of societal structure and respect which I doubt a sell-sword would get.
Any suggestions would be appreciated.
The issue I'm running into is how to refer to his previous life as a mercenary.
I was originally just going to go with 'retired mercenary', but then of course the inner editor kicks in and I start to doubt myself.
Was the concept of being retired from something even a thing in medieval times? The word retired itself sounds to me to be more of a modern invention.
I'm not sure what other word I could use. 'Former Mercenary' sounds a bit flat but the best I could come up with.
'Veteran Mercenary' maybe? But that kind of implies a sort of societal structure and respect which I doubt a sell-sword would get.
Any suggestions would be appreciated.