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Jonathan Arnell was considered an uninspired choice for the role of Lord Protector. Unlike his peers, he had no major victories on battlefield or in politics, no outstanding personal undertakings that deserved reward with the role, and no dedicated experience in what was, as its primary undertaking, an administrative position. Adding furore to the discontent was his origins, the House of Arnell had never been greatly well viewed and born of scandal were held to harsher critique than other houses may have been. A few emboldened individuals even attempted to suggest this was a resurrection of royal favouritism present at the House’s initial grant of title, although such spurious accusation received little traction. All in all, it was a boring selection.
In hindsight however, the next few years would show the appointment to be an amicable choice. While reports where that Arnell had struggled to fully ingratiate himself amongst the soldiery, he had proven an adept and proficient administrator. Prior tactical acumen from a decade as a soldier and general himself granted him insight into the needs of the common footman, whether they appreciated it or not.
Under his watch, attrition among the troops fell significantly, moral was reported to be higher, and relations with the Special Envoy to the Magnatate was as strong as ever. Arnell was boring choice, but he was that rare thing among the military minded, a statesman. No further could this be emphasised than his view abroad, not only had Arnell been able to broach years of impassivity from Quillus, he had also succeeded in persuading the Special Envoy to recommend greater funding to the garrison of Silvillud from the side of the Rusagans, something sorely needed as the calibre of their troops once again waned.
Following the attack by Leodama, Arnell is said to have chosen to remain with a small force of defenders and attempt to undertake a guerilla campaign against the new occupiers.