[Taqwus]

Mercenaries are powerful early because they're experienced, frequently decently equipped, sometimes very numerous (pikemen formations, notably) or otherwise extra-spiffy (amphibious, for instance). You're also normally dealing with indies early, which aren't that powerful compared to late-game armies.
Getting those troops early on, often far faster than you could recruit equivalent national or indy troops, can boost your expansion prospects considerably.

Starvation can hurt badly: all starving units have a -4 morale. If their morale wasn't all that good already (e.g. Mictlan slaves, all sorts of militia) or other negative modifiers apply (e.g. Dark Skies) they'll be VERY brittle. Too much starvation can cause the (terminal) disease affliction. Sieging a long-held Dead Ermor citadel is Not Fun; bring your own supply items or pay the price.

Priests will help not only due to Sermon of Courage but also Blessing / Divine Blessing, at least if you have sacred troops. The morale-boosting standards also only operate in a radius around the commander, while prayers have long range.

[ December 19, 2003, 22:23: Message edited by: Taqwus ]