— The Iliad, trans Fagles The backbone of the Byzantine armed forces, Kontaratoi infantry are named as such after the long spears they carry, and, like many Byzantine units, are by far the most powerful infantry force in the early game. Thus, the only way you are bound to break them apart is by concentrated masses of infantrymen or cavalry archers, as Kontaratoi are so hardened, and in large numbers should give enemy archers pause, although horse archers will always find a way to lay waste to carefully arrayed Kontaratoi.