The Yari Ashigaru are a unit of peasant soldiers serving the Lion Clan, known for their role as medium to heavy infantry. They are equipped primarily with yari (spears) and positioned at the front lines of the Lion Clan army. The Lion Clan has employed these troops in a strategic plan devised by Akodo Toronoko to test the opposing Unicorn Clan.
The Yari Ashigaru are supported by Yagami Samurai and are part of a larger military structure that includes shugenja, specifically Kitsu Somalia, who is stationed on the right flank to call upon the water kami. During the Battle of the Snow Plain, the Yari Ashigaru executed various tactical maneuvers, starting as part of a thin elite center designed to bait a charge from the Unicorn Clan forces, with reinforced left and right cohorts prepared to close the trap.
The left cohort, commanded by Matsu Morozane, executed a Lightning Raid against the enemy, creating panic and momentum towards their objective, while Kitsu Somalia led an assault on the right flank, inflicting attrition on the opposing forces. The Yari Ashigaru faced fierce counterattacks from the Unicorn Clan cohorts, resulting in casualties and panic within their ranks. Despite these challenges, the discipline of the Lion Clan army remained intact.
As the battle progressed, the Lion Clan forces maintained their positions while the Unicorn Clan utilized aggressive tactics, including firebombs and magical assaults. The Yari Ashigaru played a crucial role in holding the line and responding to the conflict, demonstrating their part in the Lion Clan's broader military strategy.