Rimward Barrens Legionary Active Duty Status (RBLADS) is a misnomer. Since the RBL is not an official military organization, but a paramilitary civil defense force, one cannot really be considered active duty. The RBL top brass, however, feel the need for stronger commitments from its various “civil servants.”
Despite this, however, one can choose to sign a binding contract with the officials in the RBL, agreeing to perform any missions assigned. In reward, an individual who signs an RBLADS contract is granted the right to requisition items for assigned missions. Each mission may have a special equipment requisition list (see Player’s Handout III, Mission Shadow Psion Equipment Requisition List) that includes restricted items. Some of these items may even be available for purchase after the mission. Normally, though, the requisition lists are restricted to standard items unless otherwise specified by each individual mission.
Furthermore, as the RBL further refines its command and unit infrastructure, certain opportunities may become available. Only someone who has signed an RBLADS contract can request assignment with any new units being developed or gain rank in the RBL. One of the major drawbacks, however, is the inability to refuse a mission. If any mission is refused, the RBLADS contract is null and void. Any special unit designations or rank are immediately removed, the individual is reverted back to freelancer status, and they may not rejoin the RBLADS until future notice.
Game Mechanic Note: The
RBLADS contract signature and any revocation of said contract should be entered
on the character’s Special Items Record (SIR). Only those who have this
entry on their SIR will have access to
RBLADS benefits. Some modules will not offer the chance to sign an RBLADS contract,
so if the character might be
interested, it behooves them to take the opportunity when it arises.