If enemy infantry attacks the retinue, it will be shot into both flanks by crossbowmen. If it attacks the column of spearmen left or right to the retinue, they will get shot into the front and back by crossbowmen and can be flanked by the retinue. If they try to outflank the whole formation, the outer two columns of spearmen stand ready to block or intercept any attacks. Also, the crossbowmen can fire into them as they make their flanking maneuver. Should all enemy units attack the middle, the spearmen can wrap around and encircle them. Once enough enemy infantry is decimated, one or several units of spearmen can be put into "push forward" and "run" mode and chase down the enemy archers.