The Solenarions are archers in the Society for Creative Anachronism, Inc., based in the Southern part of the Kingdom of Caid, that recreate a Byzantine crossbow unit of the 11th century. They are a warband in the 2nd or Iron Brigade of the Royal Army of Caid, who fight as an auxilliary attached to the Drafn Warband.
"The Solenarions act as the archery arm of the Drafn Warband. They were originally a Byzantine unit of crossbowman that split off from the Thematic armies and followed a number of Norseman returning home from service in the Varangian Guard. With them, they also took their baggage train and supply people who were collectively known as the Psiloi."
The inclusion of an archery force gives Drafn a distinct advantage that has yet to be equalled in the Army of Caid. They are highly skilled as snipers and capable of eliminating the enemy's leaders and depopulating siege towers. They vastly increase the flexibility of the unit in meeting the threat.
The Pax Domini (Peace of God) is an award given by the band to the archer that has quickened the demise of the most enemies during a given war.
The Psiloi auxiliaries perform arrow gleaning tasks, as well as supplying water and food to Solenarion and Drafn fighters on the field. Their appearance is most welcome after several hours in the dust and heat.
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photo © 1997 Debbie Keais