Mercenary Horsemen

In the Dead Sands, the wide spaces of the dunes are perfect for riding. In fact, it is almost a necessity, as a weaker person will quickly die from exhaustion if they try to trek the sands on foot. Some mercenaries know this and thus offer their experience as dedicated cavalry. These fighters are experienced and skilled riders, wielding spear and bow from the speed and safety of horseback. Atop their loyal mounts they serve a variety of roles. In peacetime, they act as messengers between settlements and kingdoms - as well as escorts for diplomats and other state officials. When violent beasts attack trading caravans, it is often Horsemen that are dispatched to deal with it. 
In times of war, however, they take on a significantly more violent role. The lighter units, typically archers, act as scouts. They ride across the dunes in search of enemy armies and lookouts. When battle calls, these archers also act as mobile skirmishers. Using their bows, they pepper exposed enemies with arrows to soften them up for more direct units. Similarly, more heavily armed units come into play. Equipped with spears, they use their great speed to outpace the enemy army and attack weak spots. This usually involves war machine crews and ranged units, as the lack of armour on these shock cavalry units makes prolonged fighting impractical. That said, when used properly, these riders can be very effective.
== Variants ==
Though they serve the same general purpose, some units in a country's military are given different equipment, in order to serve slightly different functions in the overall army. The severity and size of these differences varies on a case-by-case basis. Some units are given only slightly different weapons, whereas others are given new and unique technology.
=== Mounted Spearmen ===
Some Horsemen dedicate themselves to melee combat over the bow. These mercenaries are typically dedicated shock troops, targeting weak spots in an enemy army. They fight with supernatural determination from atop their horses, using spear and sword to slash and stab their enemies. These Horsemen lack heavy armour, which makes them less ideal for dealing with more fortified positions, however they make up for this with excellent speed - perfect for harassing or hit-and-run tactics.
=== Mounted Archers ===
Mounted Archers are expert skirmishing units who choose the way of the bow over melee combat. With their shorter composite bows, they are able to charge in and pepper their targets with arrow fire without having to worry about being attacked themselves. Should the enemy attempt to chase them down or return fire, the Mounted Archer can simply use their speed to outpace the threat. A particularly skilled or experienced archer can also fire accurately whilst moving on their mount, a rarer skill that makes them even more deadly.