Quote Originally Posted by Tellos Athenaios
I guess quite many mercs were simply employed to serve as a loyal force to keep the people from rebelling when the employer was out in the field on campaign. Or as loyal garrisons to keep the province from rebelling...
I'm not sure mercs would be used as a garrison since they could rebel and take over a garrison/city. I know I sure wouldn't trust mercenaries to defend my most vital cities...(unless I'm Carthage)