Who was the council of retainers?

The Council of Retainers, also known as the "Shikken" in feudal Japan, was a governing body primarily composed of powerful samurai and advisors who served the shogun. They played a crucial role in the administration and military affairs of the shogunate, influencing policies and decisions. While they acted as retainers to the shogun, their power often allowed them to wield significant authority, sometimes overshadowing the shogun themselves. This council was particularly prominent during periods such as the Kamakura and Muromachi eras.