"Though they are but humble villagers, the Moon Dragon herself guides their aim."
- —Description of Peasant Archers in Total War: Warhammer III.
A Cathayan Peasant Archer as depicted in Total War: Warhammer III.
Cathayan Peasant Archers are the archers of the peasant militia levied into the forces of the Grand Imperial Army of Grand Cathay as needed to supplement the standing military forces of the Jade Warriors.[2a]
Role[]
Archery is considered a noble and useful pastime in Grand Cathay, and young Cathayan girls are especially encouraged to follow the path of the Moon Empress into ranged combat. Thus, even the lowest in Cathayan society will have a well-maintained bow within their household and be more than capable of drawing it to defend their home. Naturally, however, they are not particularly well-equipped, and are more of a deterrent than professional soldiers.[1]
Like the peasant spearmen who comprise the other half of the Cathayan peasant militia, Peasant Archers are seen as expendable by Cathay's rulers, though they are slightly less expected to engage in melee combat as an archer. Despite their mighty number and decent training, the gear of the Cathayan peasantry is simply unlikely to cause much damage to heavily armoured or truly elite foes.[1]
In Grand Cathay, archery, and the use of missile weapons, is traditionally the domain of women. Though men can, and do, make up some of the Celestial Empire's missile troops -- most notably those who wield the blackpowder weapons of the Great Bastion -- the majority of archers and crossbow troops are female. This is the work of the Moon Empress Quai Yin, herself an exceptional archer, who has for centuries encouraged girls across Cathay to master the art of bow and crossbow, as well as blessing their efforts with her magic.[2a]
Sources[]
- 1: Total War Blog - TOTAL WAR: WARHAMMER III GRAND CATHAY ROSTER REVEAL
- 2: Total War: Warhammer III (PC Game)
- 2a: Peasant Archers Unit Description