Pike And Shotte: Samurai Cavalry

The Samurai began life as retainers to the nobility and over time became known as the main warrior body of Japan. They would initially be cavalry and would be armed with hand weapons and missile weapons. Hard hitting and superbly trained they were a professional force given many privileges as long as they served well. Eventually, they would become a political force in their own right, often answering to no master other than in name. This also led to internecine fighting between various factions for territory, revenge or simple pride.