Originally Posted by
DCO
The rotating active regiment idea is a nice one, but I should have added that I can only think of a few similar examples. Have you considered a slightly altered theory in between the two ideas. In that as you've pointed out there is firm evidence of garrisons around the empire, and a far more common system historically has been for a none too large central standing force, which would get augmented from the nearest garrison forces. This would prove easier and cheaper to use for a ruler, especially when large numbers of men are involved, and would not necessarily reduce the quality of the force... indeed it may well have improved the quality. Although I will point out that I am only proposing this as a theoretical option, but it would seem a likely possibility.