Mount
Whether it's a mount for battle or there's traveling to be done, there are a few choices available. Colts and mares are both used for multiple purposes, but most war horses are geldings.
Knights can ride just about anything into battle, but only certain mounts are bread for the purpose. A proper combat steed that can help crush your enemies, the destrier is the top choice. Trained from a young age to be a knight's trusted companion. Followed closely by the charger, a cavalry horse trained for battle. The lowest class of horse dedicated for military service is the courser. It is a swift horse commonly used for messengers.
Whether you're in a hurry or traversing a deadly environment the most practical mount is the rouncey. This all-purpose horse is used for burden, riding, and war. While not the flashiest option, palfreys are a good substitute. They are smaller and can't carry as much weight but are faster and gentler. Also commonly used by nobles and ladies for day-to-day travel. A small breed horse used mostly by messengers; the pony is the least often chosen but still a good option.
The offspring of a donkey and horse, mules are commonly used as beasts of burden. These pack animals are the first choice for merchants and warriors alike who need packs carried or carts and wagons pulled.
Armor and defense
During recent wars, as armor protection for knights became more effective, their mounts became targets. This vulnerability was exploited by Emus Falla at the Battle of Plogreble in the last century, when horses were killed by the infantry, and by Falladidrul at the Battle of Crestfall in the same century where long bowmen shot horses and the then dismounted grunier knights were killed by heavy infantry. Barding developed as a response to such events. Horse armor could be made in whole or in part of hardened leather to cover and protect the head and neck, and hind quarters.
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