Stat	Value
Category	infantry
Class	heavy
Morale	6
Hit Points	1
Primary Attack	11
Primary Charge	2
Secondary Attack	7
Secondary Charge	2
Armour	7
Defense Skill	4
Shield	5
Recruitment Cost	490
Upkeep Cost	170

• Disciplined
• Hardy
• Sapping Ability

Principes are older, more reliable soldiers who have seen some service. It is their task to be the second line of a legion and carry on the fight once the hastati are spent. They are supposed to carry on the 'wearing down' fight and exhaust the enemy. They are, as a result, capable soldiers and unafraid of combat.

They are armed with two pila that are thrown at the enemy at close range before they close to fight hand-to-hand. They are each equipped with a sword, a bronze helmet, a large shield and chain armour. The pilum (plural, pila) is a cleverly designed spear with a soft iron shaft behind the point; it bends on impact so that it can't be thrown back and if it's stuck in someone or something it is a real hindrance to movement - always assuming whoever it's stuck in isn't dead!

Historically, principes spent their own money on their equipment and, being older, were in a position to buy better gear than the young hastati. This, along with the age and property requirements, was why they fought as principes.