Militia

It takes time and money to train and arm professional soldiers; things often in short supply during war. Militia are simply armed and have little to no training, leaving them incapable of holding their own in a toe-to-to battle against the enemy. However under cover of darkness it is possible that militia could ambush armies and gain an advantage. Unlike conventional infantry they do not rely on formations and are thus much better at fighting and moving in forests and are less susceptible to cannon fire.

Engage blade

5 - 3 melee