Silver Helms (Shields)

Silver Helms (Shields) is a High Elves cavalry unit in Total War: Warhammer II. With stout shields and resolute temperaments, resisting the charge of any who dare stand against them.

Description
The Silver Helms are seen as the perfect exemplars of mounted martial grace and valour to which young Elves should aspire. Dragon Princes are too distant and aloof, Ellyrian Reavers perhaps a touch too wild and uncivilised; Silver Helms are proud without being haughty, and brave without being undisciplined. Thus, Ulthuan's legends more often centre around the deeds of its Silver Helms than any other warriors within the ten realms. Where the ranks of archers and spear regiments are drawn from the citizenry of Ulthuan, the Silver Helms are recruited purely from families of noble blood. Whilst such a calling is not compulsory, few amongst the nobility are prepared to invite dishonour by not fulfilling their duty. Furthermore, service as a Silver Helm is often considered the finest way for a noble to prove himself as warrior and leader both.

Strategy
The High Elves´ signature shock cavalry; their performance is comparable to that of Empire Knights, although they are notably faster and lighter armored. Silver Helms live off their charge bonus and should not be left in melee unsupervised. Use their high speed to your advantage and position them for an optimal rear charge, attack, then retreat and attack again until the enemy infantry is routed. Alternatively, use them to run down enemy missile infantry and artillery. They are not particularly well equipped for cavalry vs cavalry fights, but their speed allows them to intercept most units and be an adequate flank guard in a pinch. Lastly, in campaign there is never a reason to use the unshielded version of the unit instead of the shielded one (the difference in recruitment and upkeep cost is laughably miniscule).