tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35237350262142946812024-03-19T10:04:34.850-07:00The Great Epicurean WarWhen food is such a passion that you will go to war over itAnton Ryzbakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07844552779982758219noreply@blogger.comBlogger86125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3523735026214294681.post-4746491425380679832023-08-30T18:39:00.000-07:002023-08-31T21:32:35.448-07:00<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b><span style="font-size: medium;">The Origins of the Thirty Course War
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The continent of Epicurea had
long known peace. Certainly there were the occasional uprising, riot,
food fight or revolt along with the odd dynastic squabble or border
conflict but, on the whole, the land had known peace for the better
part of a century. That was before the Great Debate had degenerated
into the Grand Conflict which, as everyone knows, brought about the
the Irredeemable Disagreement. The humble origin of this continent
shattering cataclysm was the issue of The Small Plate; more
specifically whether one could legitimately replace lunch with a
selection of Small Plates as a proper form of repast if one was
considering a larger meal later that day. Not that anyone had ever
<i>done</i> such a thing, just whether, as a point of philosophy and
practicality, it would be proper to do so.<br />
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At first it was just a matter
of idle chatter, then positions became more heated and crystallized.
As the years passed and the matter consumed more and more of the
Epicureans political consciousness secret groups began to form
practicing the forbidden habit of snacking instead of eating a proper
meal. Some even went so far as to avoid eating a proper meal
altogether and subsisting entirely on The Small Plate. The
establishment was horrified at such thoughts and responded with even
more stringent rules of etiquette.
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Finally the famous philosopher
and chef, Joel Robuchon, nailed his now famous 95 Recipes to the door
of the Culinary Arts University in the capitol of Gluttonia. Outraged
by such impudence the Emperor of Gluttonia, Ferdinand de Flamboise
III, place Robuchon under edict and revoked his license to cook.
Furthermore he demanded that once a month every citizen of the Empire
would serve a Thirty Course Feast. Chaos ensued, poorer citizens
remarked that their feast would be thirty courses of beans,
consisting of a single bean in each course; rich citizens replied
that the poor could join them as no person could be expected to eat
so much and food would be otherwise wasted.</div>
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Robuchon fled to a sympathetic
nobleman's estates where he continued with his seditious preaching.
The Empire trembled on the brink of dissolution. The neighboring
nations of Freedonia, Ferndalia and Boozonia were impacted as well
with the heretical ideas being scorned in Freedonia, accepted in
Ferndalia and largely ignored in Boozonia (except as it gave leave
for late night snacking after returning from the bar). As the Emperor
became more strident in his demands for culinary compliance and the
opposition began to prepare for armed resistance a new problem came
into view; a huge and savage fleet sailed into the Middle Sea from
the east.
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With its ships brimming over
with strange and frightful warriors the invaders swiftly conquered the island
of Mindoro and waged unrelenting war upon anyone they encountered.
Shaken from their collective madness by the sudden arrival of an
existential threat the Gluttonians set aside their differences and
prepared to recover the island of Mindoro from the interlopers.
Hoping to heal his nations wounds Ferdinand decided to lead the
armada in person. At first things went well with a successful landing
on Mindoro followed by a couple of battlefield victories but, as he
prepared to attack the capital of the invaders Ferdinand was killed
in an insignificant skirmish.
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Normally this would not have
proved a problem as the Empress had provided Ferdinand with three
sons; Hanz, Franz and Clauz. The issue arose from the fact that Franz
and Hanz were identical twins who had spent so much of their youths
lying about which one was which that nobody was really sure who had
been born first, thus clouding the line of succession. This was
compounded by the fact that they were both a little more than
slightly mad. Furthermore, Hanz was a Small Plate disciple while
Franz was a follower of the Proper Meal School. Poor Clauz, the three
years younger son, was clearly the smartest and most even tempered of
the three but he was frightfully ugly and had not yet reached the age
of majority. The House of Flambiose was poised on the brink of ruin.</div>
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Into this unstable situation
stepped his Most Caloric Majesty the King of Freedonia, Louis the
Ravenous XIII. He held forth that he had known the Flamboise twins
since their early days and he knew that Franz (who was conveniently
staying in the Freedonian capital at the time) was the One True Heir
and offered to escort him to the Gluttonian capitol Vienee for his
coronation. Not to be outdone Peter the Famished II of Ferndalia
promptly declared that he too had known the royal twins since
childhood and he had determined that Hanz (who, oddly enough, was
staying in the Ferndalia capitol at the time) was the rightful heir.
Peter had already begun his procession to the Gluttonian capitol for
the coronation. In the north the Boozonian High Constable, Gordon
Ramsey, declared that the twins should not to be considered the legal
heirs due to their madness and advocated that Clauz be make Emperor.
Unfortunately Clauz had been last seen on a three-day bender in the
Boozonian
coastal city of Bowmore so his March to Fame would have to wait.
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With all the elements of a Civil
War in play back home the Gluttonian army swiftly contracted a unduly
generous peace
treaty with the invaders granting them permanent rights to the Island
of Mindoro as fiefs of the House of Flamboise. The invading army,
both confused and delighted, promptly agreed and signed the treaty.
While
doing so they politely inquired as to the ownership of the nearby
large islands, Kassabalka and Khrotos. Having been assured that they
did not belong to the House of Flambiose they swiftly set about
invading both.The Gluttonian army fell into arguing factions as they
traveled home and narrowly avoided armed conflict with itself.</div>
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This is the sorry state of
affairs that we find ourselves in today; Gluttonia armed to the teeth
and divided, two claimants to the empty Imperial Throne, foreign
armies approaching its borders from the east, west and south while
the only heir that offers any chance of a hopeful future has gone missing
on a drunken fishing trip far to the north.</div>
Anton Ryzbakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07844552779982758219noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3523735026214294681.post-23813586331626589192021-10-27T19:39:00.001-07:002022-08-29T11:14:21.790-07:00A Bridge Too Far Away<p> </p><p> Marshal Maximo Pavolich looked up at the gray gloomy hills, sprinkled with scraggly pine trees and wreathed in perpetual mists. He grumbled "Small wonder the inhabitants of this wretched land are wild barbarians, no civilized man would want to live in such a place. Why on God's earth are we trying to conquer it?" The unending dampness made his bones ache and gave an unhappy rattle to his breathing. He turned in his saddle and looked back at the withered remains of his army struggling up the narrow rock-strewn path that sufficed for a road in Boozonia while wondering how they found the strength to continue. He wished for a proper battle rather than this endless skirmishing with brigands and sneaking barbarians. </p><p> Presently a lone cavalryman rode back down the path toward Maximo. A blood-soaked bandage wrapped around his brow but he carried himself with a confident air. Spotting the Marshal he altered his path to directly approach his leader. As he reined-in near the Marshal he saluted smartly and asked permission to address his Lordship. Maximo waved him forward, "Speak lad; what news do you bring?" The messenger bowed deeply, "Good news M'Lord. There is but one bridge left to cross before we approach Laphroaig and the light troops and Dragoons have taken control of it." The Marshal turned to his aide-de-camp, "Quickly now spread the news to the troops that we will soon be out of these dreary forests and into proper countryside. Send forward a detachment to reinforce the light troops and secure the bridge against interference from those appalling animals that inhabit this area." Turning back the cavalry captain he smiled and said "How badly I have forgotten my manners, see my Physician and have that wound tended and then see my cook about some food, you look positively famished." As the young man moved away the Marshall smiled up at the sky, perhaps it wasn't such a horrible day after all.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhNDu9-NavbY3Oblfm4Uj_Pp5wZAosIg-3dSx4UtN7821FKB60WgJYo_SQNc1meAoSiHOerUGpdlFXvochZ4ncLFC-w_UgPWp7aWq4MavUyWMYURW7uu8fCSZPCGWE_c15Hq5JFTO68PyNzmY73YhVuZmLORxTMrxR2KxRRN_1S8stWn0eB_fP9pKM5iw=s2048" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1152" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhNDu9-NavbY3Oblfm4Uj_Pp5wZAosIg-3dSx4UtN7821FKB60WgJYo_SQNc1meAoSiHOerUGpdlFXvochZ4ncLFC-w_UgPWp7aWq4MavUyWMYURW7uu8fCSZPCGWE_c15Hq5JFTO68PyNzmY73YhVuZmLORxTMrxR2KxRRN_1S8stWn0eB_fP9pKM5iw=w532-h300" width="532" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>a nameless hamlet on the edge of the Boozonian Highlands </i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>the Ferndalians approached from the west</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i><span>(which is the bottom of the picture in this view)<br /><a name='more'></a></span><br /></i></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhUZ3vqdk12wfcnwrJQIJQmbo4blb-T_up9u6FzUAcoKLdoWgevC0cUC4zT2rtNZ-GE6X6wDFZ43R81IDcIqOgPXpOD-s8p_CtShSiYdhkUk1c9UZSEbM7jd2ObJbuUcaxt1vgxoNid8dsaUy-eZ-adk59ipUFSYmIlSvosTJLMMfyBRZcXInemiMA57Q=s2048" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1152" data-original-width="2048" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhUZ3vqdk12wfcnwrJQIJQmbo4blb-T_up9u6FzUAcoKLdoWgevC0cUC4zT2rtNZ-GE6X6wDFZ43R81IDcIqOgPXpOD-s8p_CtShSiYdhkUk1c9UZSEbM7jd2ObJbuUcaxt1vgxoNid8dsaUy-eZ-adk59ipUFSYmIlSvosTJLMMfyBRZcXInemiMA57Q=w400-h225" width="400" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>looking south across the battlefield <br /></i></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiLgVupJk5WuR2NFnRUAfA_wTkJbzNB4qA5O922wpbMFWWE8-lG2gAr3U-9VF73rBc01Hy8m7NHtzKwb4XcL_O76mTWw_AlG4xVtwtzN2Ab64mIWQBvuYuIdd_bPwgYTX1TRaidZTGOi74vr9idWBtCDZSsCSZhe07wMRGmkEDLxHncN0CN0LdaOHZrdQ=s2048" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1152" data-original-width="2048" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiLgVupJk5WuR2NFnRUAfA_wTkJbzNB4qA5O922wpbMFWWE8-lG2gAr3U-9VF73rBc01Hy8m7NHtzKwb4XcL_O76mTWw_AlG4xVtwtzN2Ab64mIWQBvuYuIdd_bPwgYTX1TRaidZTGOi74vr9idWBtCDZSsCSZhe07wMRGmkEDLxHncN0CN0LdaOHZrdQ=w400-h225" width="400" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>and then northwards </i><i><br /></i></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjssQPPexfZNVITHGMd8ja8EFz2590lsza_J7SZ9WuA1_XfTQIkThRcgriLT8bIAkvj9Gpx1p6Jp7_i5-y6Bo7vG9KXG6_OVZzG6Jr10zsabRBdqdkm1c09UaiOYndyLR3TP2iAlJTjma32pV9yVR0s6csxIQVrMrJfj3KTwqVFgvB353U2JqR_jtT1pg=s2048" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjssQPPexfZNVITHGMd8ja8EFz2590lsza_J7SZ9WuA1_XfTQIkThRcgriLT8bIAkvj9Gpx1p6Jp7_i5-y6Bo7vG9KXG6_OVZzG6Jr10zsabRBdqdkm1c09UaiOYndyLR3TP2iAlJTjma32pV9yVR0s6csxIQVrMrJfj3KTwqVFgvB353U2JqR_jtT1pg=w400-h300" width="400" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>the Boozonians had pushed back the Ferndalian advance guard,</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>clearing the small houses near the river before advancing on the Great Hall</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>left to right; Shot supported by a Forlorn Hope, on the road a field gun backstopped by a Trotter unit, on the right two units of Shot supported by another Forlorn Hope and then more Trotters<br /></i></div><i><br /></i><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEilinurryXRDEk4sLN1kiU7xzZ5OtyJSZF-5qxhNuGAx_b-oRSX0xqFv7V4wrzwaVpXBE66gVYvTSyGmqjPBNs70PPwwq9jn1FcojvR-SCIiBysK5kIISkV4iiQvuhnICuBePttYtBRMhVhgBDiIGEfZ_fNCtF_y6ijGpHlYTMp7hZ8HbLsejLCjjrv3A=s2048" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEilinurryXRDEk4sLN1kiU7xzZ5OtyJSZF-5qxhNuGAx_b-oRSX0xqFv7V4wrzwaVpXBE66gVYvTSyGmqjPBNs70PPwwq9jn1FcojvR-SCIiBysK5kIISkV4iiQvuhnICuBePttYtBRMhVhgBDiIGEfZ_fNCtF_y6ijGpHlYTMp7hZ8HbLsejLCjjrv3A=w400-h300" width="400" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>the Dragoons opened fire as soon as the Boozonians came into range <br /></i></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgroE5v-H6yW8UeVjGp3ZQckeuK3T4Bzw4oAY_xBefk3dFc_KPyVXdqUNFC1_wQbVuXlIgwMol1mH4ZmiqRFbs3F0MwGc7WJLE4HF4vGPR6OwjRkTBLKgpvta6CwTSW5-xwncx3doFrHcfCj9o0BFtdz997rPPN61Km1OzTO8eLKIhUC7rSEB-6EC9y6w=s2048" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgroE5v-H6yW8UeVjGp3ZQckeuK3T4Bzw4oAY_xBefk3dFc_KPyVXdqUNFC1_wQbVuXlIgwMol1mH4ZmiqRFbs3F0MwGc7WJLE4HF4vGPR6OwjRkTBLKgpvta6CwTSW5-xwncx3doFrHcfCj9o0BFtdz997rPPN61Km1OzTO8eLKIhUC7rSEB-6EC9y6w=w400-h300" width="400" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>on the Southern flank the same pattern emerged <br /></i></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiEgR3NbaLTVz_q6z0_A65vP-nIlZUik1_TUFWlzxHmSOz0UJHmzUObEYuOAFhPS5t-JYvTiJITlmGvtRvTD-geU7bPhgPXHoUPHbnigl3NKMHXHjf3eivVJYh4kjKdVVGV_e9Gwpy1hdOMf7v15mvX3gcYuX61FlnRuX9fOTg7y4j_S8XeZYIp9de1AQ=s2048" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiEgR3NbaLTVz_q6z0_A65vP-nIlZUik1_TUFWlzxHmSOz0UJHmzUObEYuOAFhPS5t-JYvTiJITlmGvtRvTD-geU7bPhgPXHoUPHbnigl3NKMHXHjf3eivVJYh4kjKdVVGV_e9Gwpy1hdOMf7v15mvX3gcYuX61FlnRuX9fOTg7y4j_S8XeZYIp9de1AQ=w400-h300" width="400" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>the Shot opened fire with an Initial Volley </i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>but poor dice rolling meant that only one Dragoon fell <br /></i></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjXeiuWQ7HfpIN-AgtMjjX7pKjeUkBTzlYSxguHmU17F0bLgl6_qF_n9LDDvBP4XllbF0mc-Up2NadjBpoJWMnQ0nlHjCx3o270n6AGlSusBJPkW-dTjQKoaiaLClhKnLy5niZv0A-jKPqwr38N3zpkJJ3Aj7RJD4OvzThmAG8UR2euVnjHysJO9d2s-Q=s2048" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjXeiuWQ7HfpIN-AgtMjjX7pKjeUkBTzlYSxguHmU17F0bLgl6_qF_n9LDDvBP4XllbF0mc-Up2NadjBpoJWMnQ0nlHjCx3o270n6AGlSusBJPkW-dTjQKoaiaLClhKnLy5niZv0A-jKPqwr38N3zpkJJ3Aj7RJD4OvzThmAG8UR2euVnjHysJO9d2s-Q=w400-h300" width="400" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>to the north two Shot units using Initial Volley managed to drop two dragoons <br /></i></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiMWsyJHvCNOZQidBFZC_O7TSIPMEayw5X0EnzwlvNobw951R-FEB98wwvGMgo6d1yD2npTgCXwDr2ZTxfs8Ul0ntEAI7_geePhs0vW3KMD6JNKfumYdPcKfidyPiPob2KOwyiJ5oeVl0iWnlTrlTTRBxtcbPKDRwVpnGPs-56XiSFZ2Na6a5fEnAQBFw=s2048" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiMWsyJHvCNOZQidBFZC_O7TSIPMEayw5X0EnzwlvNobw951R-FEB98wwvGMgo6d1yD2npTgCXwDr2ZTxfs8Ul0ntEAI7_geePhs0vW3KMD6JNKfumYdPcKfidyPiPob2KOwyiJ5oeVl0iWnlTrlTTRBxtcbPKDRwVpnGPs-56XiSFZ2Na6a5fEnAQBFw=w400-h300" width="400" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>in their turn the Dragoons withdrew and the Commanded Shot lurking in the hedge opened fire <br /></i></div><i><br /></i><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgOpg-EbNMcRgjoCQHpG6cC7BO-U-jbcV9l7TrP81k1fnEjcW8TjqOLt8uNdqS4AZOtr1fLwS60Y6nDmzzSjBIEijWHbqdERwNU8O9Fpub5YWtA6A2P-LfSQzpMEspXEqfUS5g1CAENV_OHPSIiWXrorIZtpnAkmRR2iX1Rimg38gLsFOjlVwrqRCaksw=s2048" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgOpg-EbNMcRgjoCQHpG6cC7BO-U-jbcV9l7TrP81k1fnEjcW8TjqOLt8uNdqS4AZOtr1fLwS60Y6nDmzzSjBIEijWHbqdERwNU8O9Fpub5YWtA6A2P-LfSQzpMEspXEqfUS5g1CAENV_OHPSIiWXrorIZtpnAkmRR2iX1Rimg38gLsFOjlVwrqRCaksw=w400-h300" width="400" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>to the south the Dragoons kept plinking away at the Shot </i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>while the Forlorn Hope moved forward and occupied the small woods <br /></i></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhnpWFo7j4cnWp17E8RcTlPVXw7MEAFAFfJF8PEePDaqhAxLEUXMUhZ3N8gzOBU39SHFFRbTVLl-zWD5aZ8BLXoetWBTLLGaflwC4hU8auDsk5RpnjaQQv4PkjDpKRKGhbriJdkbvxAL1Fegr8WndzT-vGPKj82QGOAa0fEB_aL0aSFa8PZ5xkDgbo6jA=s2048" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhnpWFo7j4cnWp17E8RcTlPVXw7MEAFAFfJF8PEePDaqhAxLEUXMUhZ3N8gzOBU39SHFFRbTVLl-zWD5aZ8BLXoetWBTLLGaflwC4hU8auDsk5RpnjaQQv4PkjDpKRKGhbriJdkbvxAL1Fegr8WndzT-vGPKj82QGOAa0fEB_aL0aSFa8PZ5xkDgbo6jA=w400-h300" width="400" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>the Shot returned an entirely ineffective volley as the Forlorn Hope fully occupied the woods<br /></i></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjezHG5YbBDD5lNui2Az4maMstjrK5mki9hDzEyX_dvi2pJB6SN5RNgYE_TgS63EFUBWUZmB7Gwr6ILWQIFmCIPYAjAAgQvgdAI4TQnSBCaddFRUXW3BS_Pk6jRSmyGVU_phw_jKUyLvWaMlusceZe4i5NM3W6SLGxeRS28u-FRuzG53vHxK5WzB77A6Q=s2048" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjezHG5YbBDD5lNui2Az4maMstjrK5mki9hDzEyX_dvi2pJB6SN5RNgYE_TgS63EFUBWUZmB7Gwr6ILWQIFmCIPYAjAAgQvgdAI4TQnSBCaddFRUXW3BS_Pk6jRSmyGVU_phw_jKUyLvWaMlusceZe4i5NM3W6SLGxeRS28u-FRuzG53vHxK5WzB77A6Q=w400-h300" width="400" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>the cannon opened fire on the Commanded Shot in the Great Hall <br /></i></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi6XBgOzypjKgXdyrFeHQGPaaddb7wAB5sqAty_w6piA3x95J-nNlL7C5pw6Wbik_B_MX9JIX8SdFKtX1CKvK74pjFz5FOWgvq45HNcJ95VgqRRUz7ygCYuPxlPZOHKwEaLiDOwKPIIOfki9G6t5PeAGdYXOL4vSJUt57iwRu5wW1S7N9WRH6e5jHjx8Q=s2048" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi6XBgOzypjKgXdyrFeHQGPaaddb7wAB5sqAty_w6piA3x95J-nNlL7C5pw6Wbik_B_MX9JIX8SdFKtX1CKvK74pjFz5FOWgvq45HNcJ95VgqRRUz7ygCYuPxlPZOHKwEaLiDOwKPIIOfki9G6t5PeAGdYXOL4vSJUt57iwRu5wW1S7N9WRH6e5jHjx8Q=w400-h300" width="400" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>to the north the Shot moved forward as the Forlorn Hope opened fire on the Commanded Shot</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i> dropping one of them <br /></i></div><i><br /></i><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh25qZlxAzQrcYthDK_oC4kTQTJJ5tYqDuh-TWU93A2lrAE5weRvA1J7s2tiyQsWp3WDxi3FyUE4dEnG5r3cjaXC7mFr0ge6VFmmAl6mXRP0ABkCAs3_bk6mTkj9NX29Rz5Pv2JO10xklgN3aIh-1LIbFqUZCTLjKJsSjM0TsL46sP0ZqzXFSwFuZAsVA=s2048" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh25qZlxAzQrcYthDK_oC4kTQTJJ5tYqDuh-TWU93A2lrAE5weRvA1J7s2tiyQsWp3WDxi3FyUE4dEnG5r3cjaXC7mFr0ge6VFmmAl6mXRP0ABkCAs3_bk6mTkj9NX29Rz5Pv2JO10xklgN3aIh-1LIbFqUZCTLjKJsSjM0TsL46sP0ZqzXFSwFuZAsVA=w400-h300" width="400" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>having taken possession of the woods also made the Forlorn Hope the primary target </i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>of the Dragoons and the Commanded Shot in the Great Hall <br /></i></div><i><br /></i><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi44nXbS1627wEsxFy6J_BREJvCsHh3yrW2NVR7KGFqD-Iruf2uEert11CyvIqyirz7ZE68ZZJb2QVfDGDLUvZJwPIpxhmeMpSAKIN80VOpvH2uX8OrM5gJmze2gilQ0bfhZ1KHbfMgnvyUf2GH8tZLyBFuAHRF4VMjT78xRhqCAAd8XkbGz4xLusRrcw=s2048" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi44nXbS1627wEsxFy6J_BREJvCsHh3yrW2NVR7KGFqD-Iruf2uEert11CyvIqyirz7ZE68ZZJb2QVfDGDLUvZJwPIpxhmeMpSAKIN80VOpvH2uX8OrM5gJmze2gilQ0bfhZ1KHbfMgnvyUf2GH8tZLyBFuAHRF4VMjT78xRhqCAAd8XkbGz4xLusRrcw=w400-h300" width="400" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>the lopsided firefight in the north continued with much noise but few losses <br /></i></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEifD2i3TpzV2xRyee9X-ijSY4h4D0p20oivtjQT4q81RE045RX010Wu6af5NLKudJzruc3nsQHenvuSk5asryWdmFu5lkflkTX6XnVKGzjPj4m8YM7SQZWrPsLpyrKyIrbFc39_KkuDrGDKkhOwPf-cEq4f-ZhXD-DFdEXDy5Ylj1Y0ENX3pGCDLcTpDQ=s2048" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEifD2i3TpzV2xRyee9X-ijSY4h4D0p20oivtjQT4q81RE045RX010Wu6af5NLKudJzruc3nsQHenvuSk5asryWdmFu5lkflkTX6XnVKGzjPj4m8YM7SQZWrPsLpyrKyIrbFc39_KkuDrGDKkhOwPf-cEq4f-ZhXD-DFdEXDy5Ylj1Y0ENX3pGCDLcTpDQ=w400-h300" width="400" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i> deciding that the Dragoons made a better target than the Commanded Shot hiding behind the stone walls of the Great Hall the Forlorn Hope opened fire with a crashing volley that killed one horseman<br /></i></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEja78o5bfaDMGi_TOU0egZbgCXlifOQWzgXi4teV24xO3zyHOdbZVkrietVYzNqqSmD5Jg_9_irEw3vRVCCoYv5wcJ4OX21LcrH0yQHCG-sNThbRFbSSk1EtUSbPC41oFG0W1lSLzybiyI0I-692oBe-Ltlh9WTbOKbZPcjhXA5vxC_WOLNiUGeoVdrAg=s2048" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEja78o5bfaDMGi_TOU0egZbgCXlifOQWzgXi4teV24xO3zyHOdbZVkrietVYzNqqSmD5Jg_9_irEw3vRVCCoYv5wcJ4OX21LcrH0yQHCG-sNThbRFbSSk1EtUSbPC41oFG0W1lSLzybiyI0I-692oBe-Ltlh9WTbOKbZPcjhXA5vxC_WOLNiUGeoVdrAg=w400-h300" width="400" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>the concentrated fire of two units cost the Commanded Shot another casualty <br /></i></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiutV15Ue4duW43T5TCvAvsRbR1Y4nENyBzgnfbWCRW3DLqLMIOP9ciQCZqtnxhhJlH7MYvsGThRUnsJmeYekrVRtxg6SXdzK8hEXanakGOh5S0NeckOFO9U8FIDn_CMWDUuq3Gfa1XifrUqenpg97gPoG5SHQULKikEi8VRTv41DtMtOl9vTZP5ZBd8g=s2048" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiutV15Ue4duW43T5TCvAvsRbR1Y4nENyBzgnfbWCRW3DLqLMIOP9ciQCZqtnxhhJlH7MYvsGThRUnsJmeYekrVRtxg6SXdzK8hEXanakGOh5S0NeckOFO9U8FIDn_CMWDUuq3Gfa1XifrUqenpg97gPoG5SHQULKikEi8VRTv41DtMtOl9vTZP5ZBd8g=w400-h300" width="400" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>in their turn the Commanded Shot skirmished away after firing </i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>while the Dragoons did the opposite killing two of the musketeers in the Blue Shot unit<br /></i></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhm1NfWDfnh81ul42HovcPd2B2sOhxv6G0dbjjGcllkkchLq-ZQd3wpZYxEO34FWAcuTLRc31Jt2hadCL-B0Jyj1YlHL1QXvtDFhcLJeIPg8-DG6LXfZJyJ01UT_BB6Hy0bAerwAO3Y7jC6sT_MualR4sUhn1xwlwlNelv6-VNsjFFsWpQeEurGiHhnaw=s2048" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhm1NfWDfnh81ul42HovcPd2B2sOhxv6G0dbjjGcllkkchLq-ZQd3wpZYxEO34FWAcuTLRc31Jt2hadCL-B0Jyj1YlHL1QXvtDFhcLJeIPg8-DG6LXfZJyJ01UT_BB6Hy0bAerwAO3Y7jC6sT_MualR4sUhn1xwlwlNelv6-VNsjFFsWpQeEurGiHhnaw=w400-h300" width="400" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>but things were looking up for the Ferndalians</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>reinforcements had arrived!</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>in the form of two units of Gallopers <br /></i></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEg1Ld9O-SIamAcjPg_WUeSMYF9AQZtQIPRdhICCLwZg3EyEA7u2PjW2u66S0ptVqi4Bl9oxAOgjpcFl6FSJ4eRloXoebygUqLnpoAtBGunNC6g7O33qqJ2qYzhIch2LgilEJ75MOIKUaj_z_A6KkFml99lMxpKm8zoywGTsshk2hkuR7i2bPdGoeeuZZQ=s2048" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEg1Ld9O-SIamAcjPg_WUeSMYF9AQZtQIPRdhICCLwZg3EyEA7u2PjW2u66S0ptVqi4Bl9oxAOgjpcFl6FSJ4eRloXoebygUqLnpoAtBGunNC6g7O33qqJ2qYzhIch2LgilEJ75MOIKUaj_z_A6KkFml99lMxpKm8zoywGTsshk2hkuR7i2bPdGoeeuZZQ=w400-h300" width="400" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>continued fire from the Dragoons and Commanded Shot cost another Forlorn Hope casualty <br /></i></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjh4FgPAnXN58NHtOhuVcRePxq_C5qeSy50oFOH7dQJ-W4LiDgiI5PLsBgg10tKWVlwfRWuu2h8dPQpnn8xec2D0wpwSKFxTv3TVbYH9FSJATnIo294zY8eI8U7EsatIlMST1G7m-BRFyC-Y4YLWaSTd1Wp52lbbRlik71CsiPVoZqLAnlR1FF0VIISMA=s2048" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjh4FgPAnXN58NHtOhuVcRePxq_C5qeSy50oFOH7dQJ-W4LiDgiI5PLsBgg10tKWVlwfRWuu2h8dPQpnn8xec2D0wpwSKFxTv3TVbYH9FSJATnIo294zY8eI8U7EsatIlMST1G7m-BRFyC-Y4YLWaSTd1Wp52lbbRlik71CsiPVoZqLAnlR1FF0VIISMA=w400-h300" width="400" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>north of the Great Hall the Forlorn Hope fired at the Dragoons while the Blue Shot rallied from Waver and the Yellow Shot moved to take the Dragoons in the flank <br /></i></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgoGHYGOQ5CGwd_WF7skw_Xq5JCx_o_koaDJKrZP5HzrVQaHq1sP_08VDmtcKDq-aDwRMwo9muVYaq-C_67x0eDm-wxsFNBe3t8A20prGuXVceb64oATlwAyciC2ahftasCmmnh6Xnbfn5D-yUha-IELKO73DxV0Xue4FpX2tOpKKKSq7Fjd0eiGvG2Kg=s2048" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgoGHYGOQ5CGwd_WF7skw_Xq5JCx_o_koaDJKrZP5HzrVQaHq1sP_08VDmtcKDq-aDwRMwo9muVYaq-C_67x0eDm-wxsFNBe3t8A20prGuXVceb64oATlwAyciC2ahftasCmmnh6Xnbfn5D-yUha-IELKO73DxV0Xue4FpX2tOpKKKSq7Fjd0eiGvG2Kg=w480-h640" width="480" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>the cannon chose to greet the arriving Gallopers with a cannon ball</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i> which took one Galloper out of the fray <br /></i></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgBdxhDm8Ke-JkS0vixdD7tM2KP3PtaK6UhCO1TaAW5X7NF5JnE3PFxKxDrKdSXw5ssHUxBTM_uKRXvrDdJB2oCOM7gaLzZ25kDKG6I3S9B547xI3HfkLc1e2HM6w8zh-MX9D2VjT7oCAK3eA4z4IC2x6PpEzWLzdByeggfUKv-B7LXpQ1jXksz6YJ96g=s2048" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgBdxhDm8Ke-JkS0vixdD7tM2KP3PtaK6UhCO1TaAW5X7NF5JnE3PFxKxDrKdSXw5ssHUxBTM_uKRXvrDdJB2oCOM7gaLzZ25kDKG6I3S9B547xI3HfkLc1e2HM6w8zh-MX9D2VjT7oCAK3eA4z4IC2x6PpEzWLzdByeggfUKv-B7LXpQ1jXksz6YJ96g=w400-h300" width="400" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>the Forlorn Hope again fired at the Dragons without any impact </i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>to their left the Shot and Trotters chose to stand pat, neither moving or shooting<br /></i></div><i><br /></i><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEioKZ3L-IBTRTwusNaaxFkLw6sdIq1Pe70O2bE5dma0uxuchjPS868Ux9J_5i7RDah5O4mgdeUSvskj2kU37VUKHfKpqmc-Bf7bjCDCQEVjN3lUfuHcdVUfvZJ63qHLfLEB4Xr5jfPeAoK5KOs3luLSxjARiMTkYYR_m7T6Po9ezaayQ1vxSPhF-FbO5Q=s2048" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEioKZ3L-IBTRTwusNaaxFkLw6sdIq1Pe70O2bE5dma0uxuchjPS868Ux9J_5i7RDah5O4mgdeUSvskj2kU37VUKHfKpqmc-Bf7bjCDCQEVjN3lUfuHcdVUfvZJ63qHLfLEB4Xr5jfPeAoK5KOs3luLSxjARiMTkYYR_m7T6Po9ezaayQ1vxSPhF-FbO5Q=w480-h640" width="480" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>finding its voice again the cannon switched to a closer threat, </i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>the Commanded Shot occupying the Great Hall <br /></i></div><i><br /></i><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEj76Qv_oaR8U6NnFckKxs7MsoxvjAYDfidwEIPFYuuUslP9yo_Ckqj1aDBpvPowMtekR79P00rwRPI9hjm3yFiYMM3CQpIFFO0nXk1QCUkskPBFgj-5akscBLhnnB8bzf3EXB_65c4BzK4BpXfj6ATIeV73JHLf-P8o8kjn-VMgZd4k5cTu9LfBiuGmeg=s2048" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEj76Qv_oaR8U6NnFckKxs7MsoxvjAYDfidwEIPFYuuUslP9yo_Ckqj1aDBpvPowMtekR79P00rwRPI9hjm3yFiYMM3CQpIFFO0nXk1QCUkskPBFgj-5akscBLhnnB8bzf3EXB_65c4BzK4BpXfj6ATIeV73JHLf-P8o8kjn-VMgZd4k5cTu9LfBiuGmeg=w400-h300" width="400" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>the Dragoons and Commanded Shot leveled fire against their opponents but caused no casualties <br /></i></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi-UhkP20KBIBz3L1uDrSucJyx_yMPBUb3CJu564OcmmquIl1r__NHGZ5mAZWdaxZiQbc7LWp2XZNz7nO-P3S90hG-KAz9LbXMawZqZqioO4WvtwnUlYL8oZa5TMwybjTy6Uj46IgPj_AwAydOG2PQbASs62BWn-WF10JV3SnrIyHkLKIkPiTqUv-EQuA=s2048" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi-UhkP20KBIBz3L1uDrSucJyx_yMPBUb3CJu564OcmmquIl1r__NHGZ5mAZWdaxZiQbc7LWp2XZNz7nO-P3S90hG-KAz9LbXMawZqZqioO4WvtwnUlYL8oZa5TMwybjTy6Uj46IgPj_AwAydOG2PQbASs62BWn-WF10JV3SnrIyHkLKIkPiTqUv-EQuA=w480-h640" width="480" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>like moths to a flame the Gallopers rushed toward the sound of combat</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>followed by units of Commanded Shot and Shot at a rather more sedate pace<br /></i></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiJI0bKDtWraj8GBNJzBpoTbPKfbcx6Vu1m1QssnWnHhIIvu-gMwwl92wiw3JLIcMsoE-5G586ZJyJYsBXTq3ApKUja51I8HXfjreaku1ZlUvNK0iUZc-Dutb-ciXBeDgpUxpDD7Lk0O4-2Z6pjzyBH-O3sdpe-ae6bvk92FFxF2h0TH9Wu0XxtnYIvrg=s2048" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiJI0bKDtWraj8GBNJzBpoTbPKfbcx6Vu1m1QssnWnHhIIvu-gMwwl92wiw3JLIcMsoE-5G586ZJyJYsBXTq3ApKUja51I8HXfjreaku1ZlUvNK0iUZc-Dutb-ciXBeDgpUxpDD7Lk0O4-2Z6pjzyBH-O3sdpe-ae6bvk92FFxF2h0TH9Wu0XxtnYIvrg=w400-h300" width="400" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>in the south the Dragoons switched their fire to the Shot standing in the open and claimed a casualty while the Commanded Shot dropped another member of the Forlorn Hope in the small woods <br /></i></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEihxz8e0v3kyG0Cvlc5I8-iPzQBxaKDsEjYtV2UfohU9-Sj1s-O4NB-ySb0upPslMIw_7sQm-HO8lTWdtY2voArd3yG42zkUz98eRPV5PdamChq-AOzJaBHZ1onk9eQ1YbmPVf91EYpfRVr5Z6Ry4MmHyvzZSAvrZo1Nh_Pu4Ipps0UXFdOpVHfehw2mA=s2048" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEihxz8e0v3kyG0Cvlc5I8-iPzQBxaKDsEjYtV2UfohU9-Sj1s-O4NB-ySb0upPslMIw_7sQm-HO8lTWdtY2voArd3yG42zkUz98eRPV5PdamChq-AOzJaBHZ1onk9eQ1YbmPVf91EYpfRVr5Z6Ry4MmHyvzZSAvrZo1Nh_Pu4Ipps0UXFdOpVHfehw2mA=w400-h300" width="400" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>in return the Boozonians blasted the Dragoons taking two more of their number out of the fight <br /></i></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhfxsxVFHlCJXEhTPwobp9ZeUDeHfjFt6HvN6pkfE1wVNO6wguqvUZr4eeN0hROUpckvLinJ13rCXqh5DysK0XcTaRNYmef4IIR-d57g7DMqg-pXuzLUmbO7U9g1V6sEmt-aQVLHCIwqTWdkWckZROjsY_FaR4y3ANsueHPDgt9kNabWI8bUMazc3hw5Q=s2048" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhfxsxVFHlCJXEhTPwobp9ZeUDeHfjFt6HvN6pkfE1wVNO6wguqvUZr4eeN0hROUpckvLinJ13rCXqh5DysK0XcTaRNYmef4IIR-d57g7DMqg-pXuzLUmbO7U9g1V6sEmt-aQVLHCIwqTWdkWckZROjsY_FaR4y3ANsueHPDgt9kNabWI8bUMazc3hw5Q=w480-h640" width="480" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>once again the great cannon stood silent <br /></i></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjGwi38OC2uhO7MaxXZScoeN_p1LsuUyenNPGQ0NbGEexk_Qm62XJe3AmDrJ905zW_jngglCPEYr4PF7lvEafmwKCaHB4ta-0njNd2ZyE429T8mcaUAM8H4Wd6496t13RSYSXX16XuvFPrkKzg9S0Zvn8EPJ6vpCPDe7QKbacRNq49cIQWNxUvjb2Uj8A=s2048" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjGwi38OC2uhO7MaxXZScoeN_p1LsuUyenNPGQ0NbGEexk_Qm62XJe3AmDrJ905zW_jngglCPEYr4PF7lvEafmwKCaHB4ta-0njNd2ZyE429T8mcaUAM8H4Wd6496t13RSYSXX16XuvFPrkKzg9S0Zvn8EPJ6vpCPDe7QKbacRNq49cIQWNxUvjb2Uj8A=w400-h300" width="400" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>north of the Great Hall the Yellow Shot and the Forlorn Hope</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i> continued to punish the Dragoons emptying two saddles <br /></i></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhWsihxcPFAjb0KBMsGj-lFU3mejgn8yxWjcNoiUpvj9N0DcYQQ1w92CcDMWxYNuKE74EAST1VutLfm0yuyNQN5_MPwe0HPZmUAkxba4lHYLK3wWc1w_uGpjtIj-ZL6ypL0jKKyZ5EOVKfFfwIzow2OVOE4SvOHq9MiXbAquZjd6GKUbq4qDKWI4HGVrw=s2048" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhWsihxcPFAjb0KBMsGj-lFU3mejgn8yxWjcNoiUpvj9N0DcYQQ1w92CcDMWxYNuKE74EAST1VutLfm0yuyNQN5_MPwe0HPZmUAkxba4lHYLK3wWc1w_uGpjtIj-ZL6ypL0jKKyZ5EOVKfFfwIzow2OVOE4SvOHq9MiXbAquZjd6GKUbq4qDKWI4HGVrw=w400-h300" width="400" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>spotting enemy horseflesh the Gallopers moved directly toward their opposite numbers <br /></i></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi6-v1Z_P6Py3uB7jE10qc7lrRIrh30jPEv-ztmtQONALPIXRzbXfGfI8FTZT8z7Z7QmFHb-lPLxSlMYUTcFNIDCOhvOyChS6Ruf96oaEpfU24R1KpGYyTk-0lA-0jxkHmQH4xOVAlM--9VnNiQHZ98JwNmLOBZ0JQKX2qXC0CTh1bwU9MMS7jZMcmAdw=s2048" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi6-v1Z_P6Py3uB7jE10qc7lrRIrh30jPEv-ztmtQONALPIXRzbXfGfI8FTZT8z7Z7QmFHb-lPLxSlMYUTcFNIDCOhvOyChS6Ruf96oaEpfU24R1KpGYyTk-0lA-0jxkHmQH4xOVAlM--9VnNiQHZ98JwNmLOBZ0JQKX2qXC0CTh1bwU9MMS7jZMcmAdw=w400-h300" width="400" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>the lead Gallopers were ably supported by the Commanded Shot in the Great Hall</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i> who dropped one of the Boozonian Trotters <br /></i></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiGdvOhir_4V8aPx0rTAdXQfl8jh71dw2FWWItIKx88xQbrEY_K20GQEDgk9HrdZ-RfR54w6okWHwG928eBW1KXd6wBK-zhbQ-WKbJ9Ocp82pwhA6Bt-VGCoqIXPnPYdNlM7RpWzat1VP7EGdEZvAm0gId3qLzyGYoFMR9czNIGHb6If6StcySWGOnEBg=s2048" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiGdvOhir_4V8aPx0rTAdXQfl8jh71dw2FWWItIKx88xQbrEY_K20GQEDgk9HrdZ-RfR54w6okWHwG928eBW1KXd6wBK-zhbQ-WKbJ9Ocp82pwhA6Bt-VGCoqIXPnPYdNlM7RpWzat1VP7EGdEZvAm0gId3qLzyGYoFMR9czNIGHb6If6StcySWGOnEBg=w400-h300" width="400" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>unable to face the fire of three units any longer the Dragoons to the north of the Great Hall withdrew</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>under the covering fire of the stalwart Commanded Shot <br /></i></div><i><br /></i><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgY8NLXFjmjYFZmW-MY-XVjiIAePBokoIj_CcaX8dnNn7twQXpvrQl6DCvONaZJnBQQGFJbPsoJRsnK9if7dNCnhUazYMuVsY6fIapsNWVTqFHcaQPKHkFZuDnwZ_zuHFinwJPh-ivhhqOqMl5lrtmFc4jmKLyijuPeaH-XDCbTE8puTBqD---VWJRiXQ=s2048" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgY8NLXFjmjYFZmW-MY-XVjiIAePBokoIj_CcaX8dnNn7twQXpvrQl6DCvONaZJnBQQGFJbPsoJRsnK9if7dNCnhUazYMuVsY6fIapsNWVTqFHcaQPKHkFZuDnwZ_zuHFinwJPh-ivhhqOqMl5lrtmFc4jmKLyijuPeaH-XDCbTE8puTBqD---VWJRiXQ=w400-h300" width="400" /> </a></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>suddenly finding a very lucrative target in front of them the Forlorn Hope and the Shot</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i> both opened fire but only managed to kill one Galloper between them <br /></i></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiWGTQZc0hCLGPzz7Z8KCFGwNdyqXvtr48LbmbSK_0-xOVh4W3nStzWgDss64cgG34Qv-s4pXLtLDp51KlNEAi2ldcLdVoHE7ZEQCi8hhBpxhW9Fg7n_tA0BcKd7CWWzWQvk1e6EUTOEkAF-yXq_IuGRpYrmogsCbdTSbsMp_vq28TzGGyg3pD0gr3DcQ=s2048" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiWGTQZc0hCLGPzz7Z8KCFGwNdyqXvtr48LbmbSK_0-xOVh4W3nStzWgDss64cgG34Qv-s4pXLtLDp51KlNEAi2ldcLdVoHE7ZEQCi8hhBpxhW9Fg7n_tA0BcKd7CWWzWQvk1e6EUTOEkAF-yXq_IuGRpYrmogsCbdTSbsMp_vq28TzGGyg3pD0gr3DcQ=w480-h640" width="480" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>and, once again, the cannon remained silent </i><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgZ_5oRmfG6EqglZY2GFl0oGhS2VWDw2dNaetoNUuVpxR-htH15Smw0kLQnl1rykqIJNP9sUsCOs5YvvVAeFF87T-H9DaQqAhOi8Pj6pVoCcyaXPj0znnfa7VZmA6qfCXhOdgAYy_7AV63gwb0JeTbmiEEI6GAExhSS7-a7c9mLMTAoGuBrzUZQtsDviA=s2048" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgZ_5oRmfG6EqglZY2GFl0oGhS2VWDw2dNaetoNUuVpxR-htH15Smw0kLQnl1rykqIJNP9sUsCOs5YvvVAeFF87T-H9DaQqAhOi8Pj6pVoCcyaXPj0znnfa7VZmA6qfCXhOdgAYy_7AV63gwb0JeTbmiEEI6GAExhSS7-a7c9mLMTAoGuBrzUZQtsDviA=w400-h300" width="400" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>the Trotters fired vainly at the approaching Gallopers while the Forlorn Hope peppered the Great hall without any effect, both the Blue and Yellow Shot stood by in silence <br /></i></div><i><br /></i><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhKg81zWxHH4eThCGDWnKfdEm0aGT9UsKL94yFr9QGSDVktYmHK5QPn7sBZiSl_je2P7ySicwX82kL7mgfGbHR4MBa9McW4xZdRQneXOF-K-2YgiCff5BICvCE55nIBkfE3hbsIbDh3UgIFsir9r5fwTOfnT0aH4l6LvJYLZX3xnIWOAPRpM-id5OkE6w=s2048" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhKg81zWxHH4eThCGDWnKfdEm0aGT9UsKL94yFr9QGSDVktYmHK5QPn7sBZiSl_je2P7ySicwX82kL7mgfGbHR4MBa9McW4xZdRQneXOF-K-2YgiCff5BICvCE55nIBkfE3hbsIbDh3UgIFsir9r5fwTOfnT0aH4l6LvJYLZX3xnIWOAPRpM-id5OkE6w=w400-h300" width="400" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>faced with the charging Gallopers the Trotters rose to the occasion and dealt out two casualties <br /></i></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiUuNam1YU_GYRUM8Kpb8j68tdbcvjeIGrQTJGhireoIFTzpY0Y69ienkoDThZseekyowTHorEMyhDSXfc66SG-XXdYTNbx7aSbWGDTYy1b3pquuFuPGKS1dhvrMPI267P3BCffPFXPM8jIpLF6H01EW_vDXOmwTaeyIdGNS73eRKKoO7vWVfxd3Kmt2g=s2048" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiUuNam1YU_GYRUM8Kpb8j68tdbcvjeIGrQTJGhireoIFTzpY0Y69ienkoDThZseekyowTHorEMyhDSXfc66SG-XXdYTNbx7aSbWGDTYy1b3pquuFuPGKS1dhvrMPI267P3BCffPFXPM8jIpLF6H01EW_vDXOmwTaeyIdGNS73eRKKoO7vWVfxd3Kmt2g=w400-h300" width="400" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>while the Gallopers failed to do as well and recoiled in shock <br /></i></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEinbtPa3jCMCSBv0ts8yl72BX8whPtDMGQEQ5GREYmypkHYMODd1j2vIZbxO7M-JdzKlNUr5PY2xB5g54fia04jnIjcZ4_V6PT38oG2vrwArDBLQZeXQWSi34DNxB3v0qh8AC9Npl5voL5HC4M_iQWqqueSN3w7eytor_MJdxDD6-q7NKs6MIquO4Um0A=s2048" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEinbtPa3jCMCSBv0ts8yl72BX8whPtDMGQEQ5GREYmypkHYMODd1j2vIZbxO7M-JdzKlNUr5PY2xB5g54fia04jnIjcZ4_V6PT38oG2vrwArDBLQZeXQWSi34DNxB3v0qh8AC9Npl5voL5HC4M_iQWqqueSN3w7eytor_MJdxDD6-q7NKs6MIquO4Um0A=w480-h640" width="480" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>to the south a similar event occurred as the Trotters rebuffed the madly charging Gallopers <br /></i></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEg-39mZeaFdcfZTjeTDWf0ymx5F6MquegsImD8YvLDSFUW45dhMgJrNV_UWpvd-P3-0zri5nzAbEoQl4QsOuzMs8OzOUYuGV_iRTL8zKhFfPaZ1GT3zdNE4D32HHlEItFXfOz4tUWIbJUJgTvdiSQO2EmYeSfW4bxEHrUnf-imqWRMoCVKu0rX4rqMEfQ=s2048" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEg-39mZeaFdcfZTjeTDWf0ymx5F6MquegsImD8YvLDSFUW45dhMgJrNV_UWpvd-P3-0zri5nzAbEoQl4QsOuzMs8OzOUYuGV_iRTL8zKhFfPaZ1GT3zdNE4D32HHlEItFXfOz4tUWIbJUJgTvdiSQO2EmYeSfW4bxEHrUnf-imqWRMoCVKu0rX4rqMEfQ=w400-h300" width="400" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>three units pounded the remains of the Commanded Shot guarding the corner of the courtyard</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i> reducing it to one fearless soldier, but help was fast approaching <br /></i></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjRtH07-plbYDmENyDGX5Etnsgn1Dr8rY0lYVrSc7sFHYzkf2JAU2j93LeV-mlOEOpiukP5OCnidlWgZ19cbIp0oTl3L3DCFDNBg6pTCKC5FWaWYjBtQW8pLKI30teiZIHQyHaUspXwVMXcNxCBLE_aPD_Pn4DkJCNvc--DVQcM0iKc8tvdNnQx-oseDw=s2048" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjRtH07-plbYDmENyDGX5Etnsgn1Dr8rY0lYVrSc7sFHYzkf2JAU2j93LeV-mlOEOpiukP5OCnidlWgZ19cbIp0oTl3L3DCFDNBg6pTCKC5FWaWYjBtQW8pLKI30teiZIHQyHaUspXwVMXcNxCBLE_aPD_Pn4DkJCNvc--DVQcM0iKc8tvdNnQx-oseDw=w400-h300" width="400" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>having no desire to cross swords with the Gallopers the Forlorn Hope and Shot blasted the rallying Gallopers taking two more out of the fight<br /></i></div><i><br /></i><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjp9VCUe1HXY9_F6qXrVUhIsYxWa2skEPjlnyy1uRhst8k-cBX1Z_tZcAK0032qPi6BOLo9nEOHtEw14WTawRvhoxjCRpHHnPe1OCUkbL3FKQRlhZBgCr_JjDnNiMr-2iVJT8mEoVDQLVs8-DIUFDXBV3aVQs-_8ILAGlEudeP_QBcMcyfo1vPoFHgg2Q=s2048" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjp9VCUe1HXY9_F6qXrVUhIsYxWa2skEPjlnyy1uRhst8k-cBX1Z_tZcAK0032qPi6BOLo9nEOHtEw14WTawRvhoxjCRpHHnPe1OCUkbL3FKQRlhZBgCr_JjDnNiMr-2iVJT8mEoVDQLVs8-DIUFDXBV3aVQs-_8ILAGlEudeP_QBcMcyfo1vPoFHgg2Q=w400-h300" width="400" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>backed up by newly arrive friends the indefatigable Commanded Shot claimed one of the Blue Shot while the fresh Ferndalian unit dropped two of the Yellow Shot<br /></i></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi-J3xEMwViVChDKIBm4GejKXBLVUv5Sl5b2Pmr0094QkLMqmEAzlSoxWyuXYGcRgKpPXKUPBKDI3J-S-OjDry7CRfyv3bHW7_JUdxEp8hyXx3QkQJ7lmx9vQG9oAjWtAqjl6wfZknoYz6PpYJBOUQ39LVXh6a7mYCcJXilPl0YoUSqpbjORJeJCvKmJA=s2048" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi-J3xEMwViVChDKIBm4GejKXBLVUv5Sl5b2Pmr0094QkLMqmEAzlSoxWyuXYGcRgKpPXKUPBKDI3J-S-OjDry7CRfyv3bHW7_JUdxEp8hyXx3QkQJ7lmx9vQG9oAjWtAqjl6wfZknoYz6PpYJBOUQ39LVXh6a7mYCcJXilPl0YoUSqpbjORJeJCvKmJA=w400-h300" width="400" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>to the south the rump of the Dragoon unit combined with a freshly advancing Commanded Shot unit to reduce the Trotters by another rider<br /></i></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEggsF78VCd08YhREVwBNIhgK95CCXIGJLQgP7Vy_F_NUkhQN-hyRDgqVPaGJog2fPpWqAZ0WkuZpPIQbnoYeKJTWMZwUQA9A8Aj2iNIXKX0Il96vRkYdZlzVBdCx5NuBpeARMIV-bnK0lnBqlrwlfXA4KLdQVy1FhO0ELZRRgAb5TH4z43LbGGDDNRRpw=s2048" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEggsF78VCd08YhREVwBNIhgK95CCXIGJLQgP7Vy_F_NUkhQN-hyRDgqVPaGJog2fPpWqAZ0WkuZpPIQbnoYeKJTWMZwUQA9A8Aj2iNIXKX0Il96vRkYdZlzVBdCx5NuBpeARMIV-bnK0lnBqlrwlfXA4KLdQVy1FhO0ELZRRgAb5TH4z43LbGGDDNRRpw=w400-h300" width="400" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>feeling bold due to arriving friends the Gallopers advanced once more against the Trotters while the Great Hall Commanded Shot poured fire into the armored horsemen <br /></i></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEid5R64uGjbdYv6G8nAT9DMVp95QgQCSXwhlQbeiYJ6Ty1cPw7yxb4ExrNQ-tYQZiNjRnpbXOUmPBa7XCLgfugbZH4U5s9XykzWieg0wuPjsJ5wcDEsQwvwlkXxffmenWpaoe6omyrFykwabiH3RZPSXGLUn6hYOfdFd0nGBO6aMc6np7ZHT6fokRvEuA=s2048" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEid5R64uGjbdYv6G8nAT9DMVp95QgQCSXwhlQbeiYJ6Ty1cPw7yxb4ExrNQ-tYQZiNjRnpbXOUmPBa7XCLgfugbZH4U5s9XykzWieg0wuPjsJ5wcDEsQwvwlkXxffmenWpaoe6omyrFykwabiH3RZPSXGLUn6hYOfdFd0nGBO6aMc6np7ZHT6fokRvEuA=w480-h640" width="480" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>and still more reinforcements poured onto the battlefield <br /></i></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgrDAXWgkm_1GGn0umUJq7p7f62URolOgCqvWpO4zrZEFFbdw2OEzOZox692JYlUZf07o-MUpljlSNmNmiDaJtQmFPyL2VskeK6-t5i7iyL_5dEiTMJ78Aes3sdF4Doq-rNV8qUrL3UsuClQ4ue_Z8nvzcSpAGt9BKXbcfzA6Vfqd2vzz1gr-w4uDsT6Q=s2048" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgrDAXWgkm_1GGn0umUJq7p7f62URolOgCqvWpO4zrZEFFbdw2OEzOZox692JYlUZf07o-MUpljlSNmNmiDaJtQmFPyL2VskeK6-t5i7iyL_5dEiTMJ78Aes3sdF4Doq-rNV8qUrL3UsuClQ4ue_Z8nvzcSpAGt9BKXbcfzA6Vfqd2vzz1gr-w4uDsT6Q=w480-h640" width="480" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i> but it wasn't entirely a one-sided affair, attracted by the sound of combat the local clans had gathered and and now advanced onto the field with two Aggressive Forlorn Hope and a body of Clansmen<br /></i></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiZTgoXXSUjFdxYjGJkPbxGx18ATV6h6H0oPBwLl46bmiDiPO-h3VMvmViGwAb2Wx589kq4ahXgy71Xu1mbXyXNjMB1BDGuC1AR9g4bGhu88skNvNUvU3tO4l22J7Vu3j-d4R1nvGZJZo_3H48Jl0-4V-EVDyuiUr6X6d0EcPPxug351b_IOGg0ZJ1dpg=s2048" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiZTgoXXSUjFdxYjGJkPbxGx18ATV6h6H0oPBwLl46bmiDiPO-h3VMvmViGwAb2Wx589kq4ahXgy71Xu1mbXyXNjMB1BDGuC1AR9g4bGhu88skNvNUvU3tO4l22J7Vu3j-d4R1nvGZJZo_3H48Jl0-4V-EVDyuiUr6X6d0EcPPxug351b_IOGg0ZJ1dpg=w400-h300" width="400" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>buoyed by the sight of friendly troops arriving both the Blue and Yellow Shot blasted away </i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>finally eliminating the last of the Commanded Shot in the gateway to the courtyard<br /></i></div><i><br /></i><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjv7dr9IGceZmhFYuv6luEqZBd3KP-ZJ_gUaQGE1zeI5rq6J8PbpNmc9yxvxnupFpeU7SMccRCfm1nfvchCm_KXV0rWdgzm3vzRCedWN7ZoJfFURqTzk4qqN6cwYuhPDQT4tvrgHFTO2kMDvp5VarlzZllc04PejVAi4Ijr4agERgyZfD_B2RURPTZXaQ=s2048" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjv7dr9IGceZmhFYuv6luEqZBd3KP-ZJ_gUaQGE1zeI5rq6J8PbpNmc9yxvxnupFpeU7SMccRCfm1nfvchCm_KXV0rWdgzm3vzRCedWN7ZoJfFURqTzk4qqN6cwYuhPDQT4tvrgHFTO2kMDvp5VarlzZllc04PejVAi4Ijr4agERgyZfD_B2RURPTZXaQ=w400-h300" width="400" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>to the south the Trotters and Shot opened fire on the rallying Gallopers... <br /></i></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgwiBPK-iyCH6Q6MheAC3dcDQDEjD8mJdFAnY3vUqGh-teVMN3CPURfVDJDK1Q1T1u-W3b6gE3nAiXg5ten60dtFysHk2yXuC8_7Od50wSL7vfrcKkXzQIWoJH7JITKCwbD5D_Zi_WjzYq4LLC2U-oijVf1sZF33zATW351Sd5aceIQZ1nlpcoOpbJElw=s2048" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgwiBPK-iyCH6Q6MheAC3dcDQDEjD8mJdFAnY3vUqGh-teVMN3CPURfVDJDK1Q1T1u-W3b6gE3nAiXg5ten60dtFysHk2yXuC8_7Od50wSL7vfrcKkXzQIWoJH7JITKCwbD5D_Zi_WjzYq4LLC2U-oijVf1sZF33zATW351Sd5aceIQZ1nlpcoOpbJElw=w400-h300" width="400" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>......and were finally able to finish them off </i><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEg5xZjN1zQFwXtsqfPGK2FvA4veRpOo255VNvRvNtRqUrzysLLz599AP2EfoevYBiTR3Q-9xTeH0SgmEknfs6PDp5dfHouW8VJ7e2t53SvoiQakR6HBfcoUKeRslkakxtPYGQnfFL-yasE7cQd5IQp9Pj29Q6BrbDbd6_cwYwmzL2Y-1nh9lXALZS1VBg=s2048" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEg5xZjN1zQFwXtsqfPGK2FvA4veRpOo255VNvRvNtRqUrzysLLz599AP2EfoevYBiTR3Q-9xTeH0SgmEknfs6PDp5dfHouW8VJ7e2t53SvoiQakR6HBfcoUKeRslkakxtPYGQnfFL-yasE7cQd5IQp9Pj29Q6BrbDbd6_cwYwmzL2Y-1nh9lXALZS1VBg=w480-h640" width="480" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>the cannon fired at the Ferndalain Blue shot to the south of the road, claiming one <br /></i></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEicpfnHbkU22MI15mODleltA2wyisSh0JjBB72Gzn2VVjCISxoVr_fqbblkcL8_VAssFbmtiaVXxCJwJ4yr_XlcI-6U09PgysKnOlakvQLAmoT2QMqm2HPKMKs5ifZDfLwmFDQlPZ0QaMzMuZ3Yf6CDvJD4vD4Y4Cj-qERdZp4MVsMfNbG0h2aRhpHZbQ=s2048" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEicpfnHbkU22MI15mODleltA2wyisSh0JjBB72Gzn2VVjCISxoVr_fqbblkcL8_VAssFbmtiaVXxCJwJ4yr_XlcI-6U09PgysKnOlakvQLAmoT2QMqm2HPKMKs5ifZDfLwmFDQlPZ0QaMzMuZ3Yf6CDvJD4vD4Y4Cj-qERdZp4MVsMfNbG0h2aRhpHZbQ=w400-h300" width="400" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>and the Trotters successfully <b>Caracoled, </b>opening fire on the Gallopers and taking a casualty <br /></i></div><i><br /></i><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi2LouAG2a0dInOUUEoaq3zZ1ntmbw2GxqPJVtBQywceSvoeS22_0zHY9gIa-5h4pjo4YivkvJ04MpABbHYtfF921QYwH9H3DZsaA-FpCJzmkfUNMAcmM9EJxhpyVh4shfqVCc_sVYSxul_p9Z_lDzHRaJORgLyE2IA4d0Lm6AolU2MQgOHD1QkEfx9Kw=s2048" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi2LouAG2a0dInOUUEoaq3zZ1ntmbw2GxqPJVtBQywceSvoeS22_0zHY9gIa-5h4pjo4YivkvJ04MpABbHYtfF921QYwH9H3DZsaA-FpCJzmkfUNMAcmM9EJxhpyVh4shfqVCc_sVYSxul_p9Z_lDzHRaJORgLyE2IA4d0Lm6AolU2MQgOHD1QkEfx9Kw=w400-h300" width="400" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>the Gallopers Wavered thus allowing the Trotters to charge into hand to hand combat <br /></i></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhyZZ9jE5V3aS7GCwvqYT8SgcTsbaBAD64YUXXYs1_Ac-So3wr5q42XVd_1SfHSuYK6Wtk1rSympiAE8s3IkXeTQz5jLn5rhL7fVHnQvlWDpfmErf4q-waqkOKIO99EzyrHCHqueVM7V9jZ9K8swt85DXE3dqYf-5zzIp-mwlYEj_oYQcbo8-45cFrcqA=s2048" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhyZZ9jE5V3aS7GCwvqYT8SgcTsbaBAD64YUXXYs1_Ac-So3wr5q42XVd_1SfHSuYK6Wtk1rSympiAE8s3IkXeTQz5jLn5rhL7fVHnQvlWDpfmErf4q-waqkOKIO99EzyrHCHqueVM7V9jZ9K8swt85DXE3dqYf-5zzIp-mwlYEj_oYQcbo8-45cFrcqA=w400-h300" width="400" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>which finished off the last of the Gallopers </i><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhHrMh_N53RjLbZCsXOm2Id3SiCchpzyug_1UhcNiFZKrJoO12rwYHKl1Pc17O47nRgp6m-nHzc8eWQCBNAIJOoBBu3-urYkGAT7CD1In-UAvfhmRFNYYxJFfB1t6aPGhBkbWBaotDyckL_0KCSpSoJOqliulrrru7d-X5pg-gkOn7gx5duAQIaLQuWzA=s2048" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhHrMh_N53RjLbZCsXOm2Id3SiCchpzyug_1UhcNiFZKrJoO12rwYHKl1Pc17O47nRgp6m-nHzc8eWQCBNAIJOoBBu3-urYkGAT7CD1In-UAvfhmRFNYYxJFfB1t6aPGhBkbWBaotDyckL_0KCSpSoJOqliulrrru7d-X5pg-gkOn7gx5duAQIaLQuWzA=w400-h300" width="400" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>the Commanded Shot in the Great Hall's courtyard continued to punish the opposing Boozonian Shot <br /></i></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjLzpfIriK5y7hgAVHzmm9Rg6KlnW2Jvp-VOyIMBmWlUGJSg8OYUH2VAE8Bqnm2EivtDQ25y5RnL6OwU1Jnxmojx4v1TPqUJ0rg8ONXaUOMPbVr9gEurCOqx_uqUOXmaGaeggSnka8aT_h242qyqtq4Y00ctJFtx8jKyiWGAmp4F4CmxeQh_6CU0KbrlQ=s2048" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjLzpfIriK5y7hgAVHzmm9Rg6KlnW2Jvp-VOyIMBmWlUGJSg8OYUH2VAE8Bqnm2EivtDQ25y5RnL6OwU1Jnxmojx4v1TPqUJ0rg8ONXaUOMPbVr9gEurCOqx_uqUOXmaGaeggSnka8aT_h242qyqtq4Y00ctJFtx8jKyiWGAmp4F4CmxeQh_6CU0KbrlQ=w400-h300" width="400" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>the last of the Ferndalian reinforcements spread out to ensure their hold on the Great Hall <br /></i></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhA-b7vIMyGM_x2npMAvoVbfMmQxoXwlKnDi2Sw5AjRY05g-ELiJzqm1MtcS5PK7Yvrk4PbRNmgbw48coFWg987E1GSWkhRwj6k_wXU62iiVEm6oTNu4JG-pEqOn2X3dUKqVTh48L8erYujS8lRDjzGlHoQU1Wymqa-JnYb7y0sWs7B8x3hQHo0RDqsaA=s2048" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhA-b7vIMyGM_x2npMAvoVbfMmQxoXwlKnDi2Sw5AjRY05g-ELiJzqm1MtcS5PK7Yvrk4PbRNmgbw48coFWg987E1GSWkhRwj6k_wXU62iiVEm6oTNu4JG-pEqOn2X3dUKqVTh48L8erYujS8lRDjzGlHoQU1Wymqa-JnYb7y0sWs7B8x3hQHo0RDqsaA=w400-h300" width="400" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>in front of them, to the south, the Dragoons and a fresh unit of Commanded Shot fired</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i> killing another Trotter<br /></i></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEj0Obw-V-iweCC3aHYv4fXugUjHC_oERc09Gtt6ExFArPJOrBXfxPA86vl6rXKqA3vW9GwotrXg1DQZkspO4K66t3XkBifN6gZsf11PCtDz_eVZSylDbyuY1kJkFUsBVKkMJlbdQvfe7BGqKotHeR25s_UMkUJiX71fYEAZpwYrHIXNx4XXcxBYuJ0xPQ=s2048" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEj0Obw-V-iweCC3aHYv4fXugUjHC_oERc09Gtt6ExFArPJOrBXfxPA86vl6rXKqA3vW9GwotrXg1DQZkspO4K66t3XkBifN6gZsf11PCtDz_eVZSylDbyuY1kJkFUsBVKkMJlbdQvfe7BGqKotHeR25s_UMkUJiX71fYEAZpwYrHIXNx4XXcxBYuJ0xPQ=w400-h300" width="400" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>and the Blue-coated Shot blasted the Forlorn Hope in the Small Woods <br /></i></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhpsXoq-1E7VGb2j1pssUcNW7Hr415g1lFNC_vBV13xtGJkHVdJsFY0Lqad1Qe0TSX3nPJPNNplg4WHrpvLCaR9_ZvvZRVPqMvz09vQrXkJPHPQv4IzG8YuZGkUjf_iJCKEWNiW5XZszMTD5coyK-MDADf7iY89zc_5mCozU2JppBWJ94X8ytW3NJpNxA=s2048" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhpsXoq-1E7VGb2j1pssUcNW7Hr415g1lFNC_vBV13xtGJkHVdJsFY0Lqad1Qe0TSX3nPJPNNplg4WHrpvLCaR9_ZvvZRVPqMvz09vQrXkJPHPQv4IzG8YuZGkUjf_iJCKEWNiW5XZszMTD5coyK-MDADf7iY89zc_5mCozU2JppBWJ94X8ytW3NJpNxA=w400-h300" width="400" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>losing a Trotter to short-range fire from the Great Hall the mounted men Wavered and retired to safety <br /></i></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgLHuc2OfPwJlI1GcJBuYpT_a2JGPZNUOYs95NHWy6lFaZNZ6gVWUsZvB5383X6thkruK5Mqaw_A3pAuPi8Rjv9iqGQ2y45RKWZKHw63BsVoiUHK1708QhLixAYpLV5A16i3XIrHcQzXqmr2gmQsuR6sSraBzNbrCycm1u0nHueK3jV9f5m4XicICCfmA=s2048" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgLHuc2OfPwJlI1GcJBuYpT_a2JGPZNUOYs95NHWy6lFaZNZ6gVWUsZvB5383X6thkruK5Mqaw_A3pAuPi8Rjv9iqGQ2y45RKWZKHw63BsVoiUHK1708QhLixAYpLV5A16i3XIrHcQzXqmr2gmQsuR6sSraBzNbrCycm1u0nHueK3jV9f5m4XicICCfmA=w400-h300" width="400" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>ran way some might say! </i><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEj-Tsn0JEYr6iGyiAfn5scsz6fc1LSg-_fCvlN73eZKmdlg4QnQJ22P62OBIzYOL_ouXXOZaAg3qz_88KX8tzzPX26VNikVmicQ6TJB3gCp40HoEiEgn32SZdEdseHUjWr4vvqSWusKVH5jKCAl8Jze3RWkap97RicKdeVGAcsk5ndBBMCgbGgh-giBLg=s2048" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEj-Tsn0JEYr6iGyiAfn5scsz6fc1LSg-_fCvlN73eZKmdlg4QnQJ22P62OBIzYOL_ouXXOZaAg3qz_88KX8tzzPX26VNikVmicQ6TJB3gCp40HoEiEgn32SZdEdseHUjWr4vvqSWusKVH5jKCAl8Jze3RWkap97RicKdeVGAcsk5ndBBMCgbGgh-giBLg=w400-h300" width="400" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>the Highlanders from the north continued to run toward the shooting</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i> as the Yellow Shot delivered a ragged volley at their tormentors in the courtyard <br /></i></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjePPmr6E764z6CfFYW3NG2iiy3Aj18jIZV8vMV72QIKTlvecc0VvmkW0i2td7-V-sE1IHf0H4QKyRNl03TziT5x8t4Doj5h2JrKCqAGPSrFPb3JkRheAIuzABKY8-BJofO0W5z6NUtTsTvX2R99Xkr-5sl_3BEk-w_dupgfkpkPf7KaSFdh4iBUkiDww=s2048" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjePPmr6E764z6CfFYW3NG2iiy3Aj18jIZV8vMV72QIKTlvecc0VvmkW0i2td7-V-sE1IHf0H4QKyRNl03TziT5x8t4Doj5h2JrKCqAGPSrFPb3JkRheAIuzABKY8-BJofO0W5z6NUtTsTvX2R99Xkr-5sl_3BEk-w_dupgfkpkPf7KaSFdh4iBUkiDww=w400-h300" width="400" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>covered by this fire the Blue Shot and the Forlorn Hope dashed toward the open door to the courtyard <br /></i></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiA2Ad9RwYWbhwoDg8lMreQVGE3QcwKsZUaeZn7mxO09Vf9ESs17T4SNpIgRhaIuGd26sNo5O8NTNK8dpspCfQ7WUooAXXkao1ytS1w61YlRvIZDPigxhnqdGvWHikqDF5d7jXOsy9XZYd6nJGyANA9eupUpz3l43IUAyxWDnC5qEFRC64Tl4avs-Ppmg=s2048" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiA2Ad9RwYWbhwoDg8lMreQVGE3QcwKsZUaeZn7mxO09Vf9ESs17T4SNpIgRhaIuGd26sNo5O8NTNK8dpspCfQ7WUooAXXkao1ytS1w61YlRvIZDPigxhnqdGvWHikqDF5d7jXOsy9XZYd6nJGyANA9eupUpz3l43IUAyxWDnC5qEFRC64Tl4avs-Ppmg=w400-h300" width="400" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>the Boozonian left was in danger of being overwhelmed,</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>they fired one last volley in an effort to stem the tide <br /></i></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhgTzD6SQ5uvw8eoaob6XnhmNda7hASVSNCS14-6FulCj7aMa8ywUnBd_yuCg1yof9VTGX_Fg8i9MpWTXyzxURR-r0f7a7-NS-hRw3L6c6LEA4B2YvaK_wI2l2k905XV-k_SS02RsPROpzSxyKHfUzU4U1cO7BDEqigwdDsqH1V1SS1Emy1kMrjzas9LQ=s2048" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhgTzD6SQ5uvw8eoaob6XnhmNda7hASVSNCS14-6FulCj7aMa8ywUnBd_yuCg1yof9VTGX_Fg8i9MpWTXyzxURR-r0f7a7-NS-hRw3L6c6LEA4B2YvaK_wI2l2k905XV-k_SS02RsPROpzSxyKHfUzU4U1cO7BDEqigwdDsqH1V1SS1Emy1kMrjzas9LQ=w400-h300" width="400" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>sensing that their time was soon to be up the occupants of the Great Hall fired a well-aimed volley into the Yellow Shot which broke their morale and would send them Wavering away to the rear <br /></i></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgV6nDo8WMkdPtFLiLux_DkODCicziTd1alHzjmnh0km0QALZ18GLdw5jLdZWwuoxZ7xXZZHTofPdKhGOr6TvkK1t4WeeZYDSYmAb3ewCSk0RpodVZFH9B0h9rJ-Jphnc7KGysfRYjdVjdXcCLDE034aIPXeaDJbpB5TdGI7H0zxQdDPFPnDQLIeZHcIQ=s2048" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgV6nDo8WMkdPtFLiLux_DkODCicziTd1alHzjmnh0km0QALZ18GLdw5jLdZWwuoxZ7xXZZHTofPdKhGOr6TvkK1t4WeeZYDSYmAb3ewCSk0RpodVZFH9B0h9rJ-Jphnc7KGysfRYjdVjdXcCLDE034aIPXeaDJbpB5TdGI7H0zxQdDPFPnDQLIeZHcIQ=w400-h300" width="400" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>south of the road the unequal firefight continued </i><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEj8hTHgqqQgZ0WdEfVfmQ4qh6GFE1qI4ucDoi76GK42FRU6s7k71Ubs9XIkkYYLOlrLrrCZoKP3mB9LY_ipXrr-xWu0zHNaFvY06zZtrKxVvUZ28ttLLTJ9kuFYIJlWJhyvwWO6KsB2AhGrhcZ0EUZGDqEa57IkJavgKX5I_yDqpUo7URFQ8b6j4Shxfg=s2048" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEj8hTHgqqQgZ0WdEfVfmQ4qh6GFE1qI4ucDoi76GK42FRU6s7k71Ubs9XIkkYYLOlrLrrCZoKP3mB9LY_ipXrr-xWu0zHNaFvY06zZtrKxVvUZ28ttLLTJ9kuFYIJlWJhyvwWO6KsB2AhGrhcZ0EUZGDqEa57IkJavgKX5I_yDqpUo7URFQ8b6j4Shxfg=w400-h300" width="400" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>further south still, the Commanded Shot blasted the Trotters</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i> taking another rider down <br /></i></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiaTX9YtuwaNc527MhBc0SPCYcgCQnk35QvqeoY26hpZ72xkFcEhq-lCFHcLxRrFYrMMFW9MynGYENUgojtyit1TU3cQe8Om4_Bd-_AOb0w4VV0jVpM9_yaZakCeeHOz79DPTReZibCHUVZKxOV_oJlzxU_lOkix1ZURCKjADMdDmGcsw7wKEqbN3LyQg=s2048" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiaTX9YtuwaNc527MhBc0SPCYcgCQnk35QvqeoY26hpZ72xkFcEhq-lCFHcLxRrFYrMMFW9MynGYENUgojtyit1TU3cQe8Om4_Bd-_AOb0w4VV0jVpM9_yaZakCeeHOz79DPTReZibCHUVZKxOV_oJlzxU_lOkix1ZURCKjADMdDmGcsw7wKEqbN3LyQg=w480-h640" width="480" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>the last of the Ferndalian Shot moved boldly down the road to replace the exterminated Gallopers <br /></i></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiWJ2SFyNOKbc41AcCUcRDglatVAzse-3UutbcUXroSSUJKd0vsFyZFNXht5TeKJj-LCDU_GoZeoOoRuvh-4PT3ehXUxsocD6ceNp9FuieTuloORDlVJCVvWAWG4E32nfCGCVzvho7S-dht8PdaBSMHbvLs0MHpozMOWHqKZAg2KqQP0cCkTyZRp2GhaA=s2048" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiWJ2SFyNOKbc41AcCUcRDglatVAzse-3UutbcUXroSSUJKd0vsFyZFNXht5TeKJj-LCDU_GoZeoOoRuvh-4PT3ehXUxsocD6ceNp9FuieTuloORDlVJCVvWAWG4E32nfCGCVzvho7S-dht8PdaBSMHbvLs0MHpozMOWHqKZAg2KqQP0cCkTyZRp2GhaA=w400-h300" width="400" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>trying to prep the attack of the Forlorn Hope the Blue Shot fired at the Ferndalians holding the gateway</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>the sturdy stone wall deflected the fire and the Commanded Shot remained unharmed <br /></i></div><i><br /></i><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi-FKNK4Upe7L0XQqr2QXkI2pD6D25uWaNUketNXvu21P73E0x9V8V7qXPpowTglvmyycRcqbrPAtVa1NKKCx7tavLp0CYLtdqL5ayglhor3m3F1-4PMp7Otg6knih0j0a5Sge_bGs_rAJVewYrpsFp2-R3dBsruTtf7KUjoXlF_5-8s_xtPEXJAGsJBQ=s2048" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi-FKNK4Upe7L0XQqr2QXkI2pD6D25uWaNUketNXvu21P73E0x9V8V7qXPpowTglvmyycRcqbrPAtVa1NKKCx7tavLp0CYLtdqL5ayglhor3m3F1-4PMp7Otg6knih0j0a5Sge_bGs_rAJVewYrpsFp2-R3dBsruTtf7KUjoXlF_5-8s_xtPEXJAGsJBQ=w400-h300" width="400" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>but melee combat is another story entirely, the Forlorn Hope stormed into the courtyard </i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>seeking retribution for their lost friends <br /></i></div><i><br /></i><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjbKwvM-6xRe7WU_cUk9CArnzklnQP4rUyQJbihYerrbVZ8Eh9AZg0sv-nCDVVl47BynO-STWWM0O3UP-7LeC7U8xMxa00PVR9Yy5Hdr2bqW8R_AfVDCLkR8_Jx78Br3JKXKROqp_thyn8I9-ff0v15B9TQwUEePmeaNX_yEHZqOUe-SLBwWfmqlT8qdQ=s2048" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjbKwvM-6xRe7WU_cUk9CArnzklnQP4rUyQJbihYerrbVZ8Eh9AZg0sv-nCDVVl47BynO-STWWM0O3UP-7LeC7U8xMxa00PVR9Yy5Hdr2bqW8R_AfVDCLkR8_Jx78Br3JKXKROqp_thyn8I9-ff0v15B9TQwUEePmeaNX_yEHZqOUe-SLBwWfmqlT8qdQ=w400-h300" width="400" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>as the Highlander mobs pressed forward <br /></i></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh00fQyeSP75akQQuYjPCqHkFMi0oUaTDUTUdokFb73j5QZnTWKmQo16uhoWpRuvJeJoXf7UTrMpFmo3CMm3QkJLZ93PiTF7-1AHmnDr6CKbi16V7Ta5h52-mfYrgZQZHQhwUAWCFQAs05hxWaduYzzx7yJgJRVCK9jI1WnVDT3DpdvqDJLYNFT3BK6XQ=s2048" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh00fQyeSP75akQQuYjPCqHkFMi0oUaTDUTUdokFb73j5QZnTWKmQo16uhoWpRuvJeJoXf7UTrMpFmo3CMm3QkJLZ93PiTF7-1AHmnDr6CKbi16V7Ta5h52-mfYrgZQZHQhwUAWCFQAs05hxWaduYzzx7yJgJRVCK9jI1WnVDT3DpdvqDJLYNFT3BK6XQ=w480-h640" width="480" /> </a></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>in the field of carnage south of the road the Boozonian Trotters decided that they had had enough of the plucky Ferndalian Dragoons and Caracoled forward and delivered a volley that claimed a casualty <br /></i></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgjW-MO9FtBGqYZWZyQVqoxf30bDmvMzzw428QcfzlC8TlP8Wn-lMeYYCZQdAp6WsV09lXZ07Z15hc5sR7GLroZ6vZazFdR2iccoF13nQ_algHhJXyVVaFlfE87_aAsnbPU-GGOr6UMkDBzEFrE5eu_Wnn1fLIM38Ws6W0TbFjVHhtPgRl_RiCR617EeQ=s2048" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgjW-MO9FtBGqYZWZyQVqoxf30bDmvMzzw428QcfzlC8TlP8Wn-lMeYYCZQdAp6WsV09lXZ07Z15hc5sR7GLroZ6vZazFdR2iccoF13nQ_algHhJXyVVaFlfE87_aAsnbPU-GGOr6UMkDBzEFrE5eu_Wnn1fLIM38Ws6W0TbFjVHhtPgRl_RiCR617EeQ=w480-h640" width="480" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>this caused the last remaining lad to waver and they then charged home <br /></i></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEihZOjZene16C8cuUCGhA5VerOL4WJu-iSq-LIR70NfukjXABGeXei7HNxQQgMP7TwpgtZ848WzBJeO7QXoIGudZqc2T8pYtBMAFuwJ8enL-GQNMwz3QOKgw2PcX2QAJM_0fgagTRVKMTg_RcpcG7CaN8YTtKuknuSaPEz5ejrJL1RlBVwZmjt3b4ANCQ=s2048" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEihZOjZene16C8cuUCGhA5VerOL4WJu-iSq-LIR70NfukjXABGeXei7HNxQQgMP7TwpgtZ848WzBJeO7QXoIGudZqc2T8pYtBMAFuwJ8enL-GQNMwz3QOKgw2PcX2QAJM_0fgagTRVKMTg_RcpcG7CaN8YTtKuknuSaPEz5ejrJL1RlBVwZmjt3b4ANCQ=w480-h640" width="480" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>the Dragoon fell boldly facing his foe, but fall he did <br /></i></div><i><br /></i><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgHlqDpbV5dzIGq2N2w2E7Hatlbp0MiTc89Os4xAN8PzzXxDAstEUweSk1bpuQBby64cMUl3CloyO4h1HqH4t-kxZ3vCkQwRdceDkp1H7Ubl0BTKhKXardoJDJ9bxOHBRbWQr2hX465MNtVr_hoEe5aefDLk63oejOkj0FqtnnfApT-ueb7q2_ezQ6zkA=s2048" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgHlqDpbV5dzIGq2N2w2E7Hatlbp0MiTc89Os4xAN8PzzXxDAstEUweSk1bpuQBby64cMUl3CloyO4h1HqH4t-kxZ3vCkQwRdceDkp1H7Ubl0BTKhKXardoJDJ9bxOHBRbWQr2hX465MNtVr_hoEe5aefDLk63oejOkj0FqtnnfApT-ueb7q2_ezQ6zkA=w480-h640" width="480" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>after the cavalry skirmish the cannon fired, sweeping away the entire rear rank of Ferndalian Shot standing on the road while the Forlorn Hope and the Shot tried to whittle-down the troops in the field <br /></i></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiKE5fFC3Pga5QOVTL3Eb7LqKEqwOFEX2khWTIRHGWtSSubmuhpvOW9YponOPQaWPQoVy2e84KX-HKpQK_Wrjucf0sbJq5qofz-DiX5OAWHzGluS5npmQR-Wp5b9INPth7E7_uXsjjXLRf4OT6DEcm53js7uqwAYC8tkKTReVKmyt443AgZxvcJh7Ff9A=s2048" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiKE5fFC3Pga5QOVTL3Eb7LqKEqwOFEX2khWTIRHGWtSSubmuhpvOW9YponOPQaWPQoVy2e84KX-HKpQK_Wrjucf0sbJq5qofz-DiX5OAWHzGluS5npmQR-Wp5b9INPth7E7_uXsjjXLRf4OT6DEcm53js7uqwAYC8tkKTReVKmyt443AgZxvcJh7Ff9A=w400-h300" width="400" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>the melee in the courtyard was short and sharp</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i> and the Commanded Shot fled from the rage of their attackers</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>but help was arriving! <br /></i></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEicoXXflnfSUemEEOzPbXGta6jUN0T41RBemJQ076MOePVRjvCdAb65_pGHYo1OrMvSDkicKbm9ZyjHdnTyrYjqBmt6F4VkuXVhMd05t5LSLLSXcfp-dwMrbyNxIaiPRYp5Jk_v6oVi178nrHL4-JK_gft3sW_4eADmKweVVH3USIMWBquS-vFzpRBUug=s2048" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEicoXXflnfSUemEEOzPbXGta6jUN0T41RBemJQ076MOePVRjvCdAb65_pGHYo1OrMvSDkicKbm9ZyjHdnTyrYjqBmt6F4VkuXVhMd05t5LSLLSXcfp-dwMrbyNxIaiPRYp5Jk_v6oVi178nrHL4-JK_gft3sW_4eADmKweVVH3USIMWBquS-vFzpRBUug=w480-h640" width="480" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>despite grievous losses the Blue Shot knew that they had to cover the approach of the highlanders </i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>and advanced into the fire of the Ferndalians</i><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiJ6CbdcxOgoiKOF3QeyhGhGrjvPi1_O9XIjTOVcOzWIiTn4abgpaz9HPwBHqSdvihYWj5hlrPLM8FdD_0fQE766taRfpTaGirLsyQk7HTnHE0-gf8dXGB29ysEFYnyG3huSSYqDttBn9sxwkLKfjkTLNERCd5tHbAfBh4C5LhBhi_oT-GbO2UNUxeMKA=s2048" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiJ6CbdcxOgoiKOF3QeyhGhGrjvPi1_O9XIjTOVcOzWIiTn4abgpaz9HPwBHqSdvihYWj5hlrPLM8FdD_0fQE766taRfpTaGirLsyQk7HTnHE0-gf8dXGB29ysEFYnyG3huSSYqDttBn9sxwkLKfjkTLNERCd5tHbAfBh4C5LhBhi_oT-GbO2UNUxeMKA=w480-h640" width="480" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>having finished off the Dragoons the Trotters looked about to find themselves surrounded by enemy troops who had little else to shoot at <br /></i></div><i><br /></i><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjY55TqX6-cAdlVD6pj-fOlH24E_VWZqKcQEj1J66CuodU22OJXBfKbUOj-Bw8c1EHP6zxhCrXy0Yyx8bnWvXIo4cxND2xt_u5SKQvYTb6cO4SYIv3ervjlpC-5wSIIEeYijseb7oaDGqUDSaEW3m_W2jg3Tkpxu08-EnpUI-xvhGxfcnWdJvd98qszhw=s2048" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjY55TqX6-cAdlVD6pj-fOlH24E_VWZqKcQEj1J66CuodU22OJXBfKbUOj-Bw8c1EHP6zxhCrXy0Yyx8bnWvXIo4cxND2xt_u5SKQvYTb6cO4SYIv3ervjlpC-5wSIIEeYijseb7oaDGqUDSaEW3m_W2jg3Tkpxu08-EnpUI-xvhGxfcnWdJvd98qszhw=w480-h640" width="480" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>and shoot they did, wiping out the last of the Trotters <br /></i></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiGsEJ7S60G_imgsK2UmJEHcnqcwpRePclkdQr5INcv4NZw58PwOI9QceqXp5t3fBcZ1jLcwL57_6g-slZV-nh5uOKnAbw7Yh6mzukr7iNcBGkurX3FYJxPJZ0XdXnQ4UiNGOzsbbmpxVuNn_blizuk0cMnfOH0XOKlUpOk1YONhvOjzCOJK1RfYwzMjw=s2048" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiGsEJ7S60G_imgsK2UmJEHcnqcwpRePclkdQr5INcv4NZw58PwOI9QceqXp5t3fBcZ1jLcwL57_6g-slZV-nh5uOKnAbw7Yh6mzukr7iNcBGkurX3FYJxPJZ0XdXnQ4UiNGOzsbbmpxVuNn_blizuk0cMnfOH0XOKlUpOk1YONhvOjzCOJK1RfYwzMjw=w400-h300" width="400" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>while that was going on the Shot unit south of the road </i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>blasted the Forlorn Hope lurking in the Small Woods out of existence <br /></i></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiH2ZMh3u0xG5ckLjgn9JyKwunrUrgusDNMAzAaEewUYRY0NAryfgE0H1UmyaO-R5fsr2yo2V5qCH91YXqLIuKTHLhlG6leC8w8zOxvL3BGie9aMFNlmPJhuLCeN76a9AfZXofWz8sFTOZyDfO79Y7BH2jUH6h1hY0YTlgxvyFiunWbkcESp6adCKXBxg=s2048" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiH2ZMh3u0xG5ckLjgn9JyKwunrUrgusDNMAzAaEewUYRY0NAryfgE0H1UmyaO-R5fsr2yo2V5qCH91YXqLIuKTHLhlG6leC8w8zOxvL3BGie9aMFNlmPJhuLCeN76a9AfZXofWz8sFTOZyDfO79Y7BH2jUH6h1hY0YTlgxvyFiunWbkcESp6adCKXBxg=w400-h300" width="400" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>in the upper left we see the Blue Shot taking fire from the Commanded Shot hiding in the Great Hall and the Ferndalian Shot on the road while covering the advance of the Highlanders </i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>the battered Yellow Shot continues to retire bleeding losses along the way<br /></i></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEikgpJM-PMEBcsGq-8R-zzWELbeNadRL1MFcLFdDX4wxnvKRYWUqPHkXV9MEkkEyfAfnLLXG6iZPxWYbcwq1wdrs3ztsF35cp63xub314O6YIDXC-GR_7oW9PCplP9j90g5uJnDBuZG87dD0-SaL1QNJ99_wVUJjnICiGKtj_cYIXax16VFE2B7xkCU1g=s2048" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEikgpJM-PMEBcsGq-8R-zzWELbeNadRL1MFcLFdDX4wxnvKRYWUqPHkXV9MEkkEyfAfnLLXG6iZPxWYbcwq1wdrs3ztsF35cp63xub314O6YIDXC-GR_7oW9PCplP9j90g5uJnDBuZG87dD0-SaL1QNJ99_wVUJjnICiGKtj_cYIXax16VFE2B7xkCU1g=w400-h300" width="400" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>with blood-lust in their eyes the Forlorn Hope in the courtyard charged the next unit they saw,</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i> a fresh unit of Ferndalian Shot who still had their First Volley in hand</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>the resulting melee cost both forces three casualties<br /></i></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjke1e1__G-2sHq2mg-XelWhlsQ4-G_E91mmxOhsWTGVxnlMxb9NPW-KG5iwTryxzQlx-otle_PX0vu1B3jxf-leFupOmLJ_nzkBZjxYfruKkSbhD4ZjCh34nB__CVTRH8Z9R1ev_jKG_0qCuzL2GbI55GrBObqUfzi_HNxEJII6pRRN1iSS9IWPkmunw=s2048" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjke1e1__G-2sHq2mg-XelWhlsQ4-G_E91mmxOhsWTGVxnlMxb9NPW-KG5iwTryxzQlx-otle_PX0vu1B3jxf-leFupOmLJ_nzkBZjxYfruKkSbhD4ZjCh34nB__CVTRH8Z9R1ev_jKG_0qCuzL2GbI55GrBObqUfzi_HNxEJII6pRRN1iSS9IWPkmunw=w480-h640" width="480" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>despite being given a perfect target the great cannon was once more silent <br /></i></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjkuJRMhmvjLa7O5_zndrkptjQkCSdmdJhALTuio0DLHW5fHWkipr-zs3I5MvOkdEU1eYwQeovvtsWuqXR2pM6o3gbVddmOaZ3WOdMQ18NXhdVhuTokW2mnWuC4ATjpamlFBf5nvV4-D6v4kDh_WLSJIbhetculLXrn-n_Wt0Wc8q0KCGyeBmNdo-RwfA=s2048" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjkuJRMhmvjLa7O5_zndrkptjQkCSdmdJhALTuio0DLHW5fHWkipr-zs3I5MvOkdEU1eYwQeovvtsWuqXR2pM6o3gbVddmOaZ3WOdMQ18NXhdVhuTokW2mnWuC4ATjpamlFBf5nvV4-D6v4kDh_WLSJIbhetculLXrn-n_Wt0Wc8q0KCGyeBmNdo-RwfA=w400-h300" width="400" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>alone in the south the Boozonian Shot sought temporary cover behind the Small Woods <br /></i></div><i><br /></i><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhbJd8XoopSlPEZOAFQYYFmCmO6BI3kQLKJXBTTaJIWLm7wWPUQ3aiw68hoIz84fA67qDxHydEZ0ZTnp5Wif7M-63Ft5eX6sHlWwwK-ziFDNh_yyny-ygJrmcX7XLCrSxwnBaLL3VH-bOAmAdldlPzFN-cdrpFaGqMaKZslKiNpiLhY0lSDOWF-o7D1ng=s2048" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhbJd8XoopSlPEZOAFQYYFmCmO6BI3kQLKJXBTTaJIWLm7wWPUQ3aiw68hoIz84fA67qDxHydEZ0ZTnp5Wif7M-63Ft5eX6sHlWwwK-ziFDNh_yyny-ygJrmcX7XLCrSxwnBaLL3VH-bOAmAdldlPzFN-cdrpFaGqMaKZslKiNpiLhY0lSDOWF-o7D1ng=w400-h300" width="400" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>having no friends south of the road they felt quite alone <br /></i></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEj52IJ_3EE0nAcKnKZGzgJ6rliCXks8QVg1WtkqidN1_iy30iZRiJcOCuncgNreRzoAbOi7KOBA_MIRrUBClQZdV3lDrM5tq16CINuj9VQF1aDdCjVlTGC2l0tUtNlI58PF11bg2Fy_4oUUPe2cGOhiCva40sUzAQiaMazA6ehv9se78M-Z-2-YkvZceQ=s2048" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEj52IJ_3EE0nAcKnKZGzgJ6rliCXks8QVg1WtkqidN1_iy30iZRiJcOCuncgNreRzoAbOi7KOBA_MIRrUBClQZdV3lDrM5tq16CINuj9VQF1aDdCjVlTGC2l0tUtNlI58PF11bg2Fy_4oUUPe2cGOhiCva40sUzAQiaMazA6ehv9se78M-Z-2-YkvZceQ=w400-h300" width="400" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>knowing the certain and terrible cost of their bravado</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i> the Blue Shot stood firm in front of the wall of fire from the Ferndalians to their front <br /></i></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjd1ATVlbG2HnjT1FiGyxpQwlcqUG8WFwuexmDWwqQo5vxU9ESVz1EHWa4UhQrzFXh_yFLWi6inUUgH_fC-EKlYf59grF4RK5ohlho8d6bigFLJucyDVNMIJb65l0XtFfVbJl0rM7dNmvS3odK5CcvwbCY7wZpC3fmTQEzh49C9FNUUW5wem1xQZu1lCQ=s2048" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjd1ATVlbG2HnjT1FiGyxpQwlcqUG8WFwuexmDWwqQo5vxU9ESVz1EHWa4UhQrzFXh_yFLWi6inUUgH_fC-EKlYf59grF4RK5ohlho8d6bigFLJucyDVNMIJb65l0XtFfVbJl0rM7dNmvS3odK5CcvwbCY7wZpC3fmTQEzh49C9FNUUW5wem1xQZu1lCQ=w400-h300" width="400" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>in the end it broke their spirit</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i> but the enemy now confronted the wrath of the Highlanders with empty muskets <br /></i></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjQwBHfEJSkFrvnFnQXZ8Zjs34A_Uuo8C-qZdW46L3qwfLOtmD6W5QYLPmnO2nNv9u-w-jwidqvxyQ35qJjQThE6pg5FmilugEFZTeVLvcU-EICxc7ti20M9yhFsHYIIwTHPCIlGA1Eqfc0Le7mI2eGAVbeCC3ea10ysAUZU03UbLh4WscmCZ4JAiB5WQ=s2048" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjQwBHfEJSkFrvnFnQXZ8Zjs34A_Uuo8C-qZdW46L3qwfLOtmD6W5QYLPmnO2nNv9u-w-jwidqvxyQ35qJjQThE6pg5FmilugEFZTeVLvcU-EICxc7ti20M9yhFsHYIIwTHPCIlGA1Eqfc0Le7mI2eGAVbeCC3ea10ysAUZU03UbLh4WscmCZ4JAiB5WQ=w480-h640" width="480" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>even now the cannon failed to fire in support of the Highlanders attack <br /></i></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhKqqeA9XEiaAnJm7n9C47XLOYnFX5qgqL8ZJC2LcBH09hKKgUuYhBmhctxUCZp9PP1BAPZvvL1YYE6vY-k4RwlI0cDT_TzG5ccdBP9aWBchx-e0197PXXZVDpQ4LRaejL5XCIlV6_67IkiFdJxiMXoms_1Z61QYu72ydwwQlQ11yKF61yHlgdMsgs8Nw=s2048" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhKqqeA9XEiaAnJm7n9C47XLOYnFX5qgqL8ZJC2LcBH09hKKgUuYhBmhctxUCZp9PP1BAPZvvL1YYE6vY-k4RwlI0cDT_TzG5ccdBP9aWBchx-e0197PXXZVDpQ4LRaejL5XCIlV6_67IkiFdJxiMXoms_1Z61QYu72ydwwQlQ11yKF61yHlgdMsgs8Nw=w400-h300" width="400" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>while the battered Shot opened a feeble fire at the approaching Commanded Shot to the south <br /></i></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjKvz412arp0N8biqkEzPtkxnb-_ZLPj1mi0LxzQYWGH2yBYcSzAReqyQrSofCrvlwfJvuM_fe6mgP1UL8JkR5iBhB4Kt6PhooBceD2-FHKccNBnOi3iSvcAnJcd52Tafkdt2_n1Yfn5IEtelJgS_EFV-fmryFSx96u-p1WlRkVmhIEIuMzNv0qT_K27g=s2048" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjKvz412arp0N8biqkEzPtkxnb-_ZLPj1mi0LxzQYWGH2yBYcSzAReqyQrSofCrvlwfJvuM_fe6mgP1UL8JkR5iBhB4Kt6PhooBceD2-FHKccNBnOi3iSvcAnJcd52Tafkdt2_n1Yfn5IEtelJgS_EFV-fmryFSx96u-p1WlRkVmhIEIuMzNv0qT_K27g=w400-h300" width="400" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>with a wild howl the Highlanders burst forth to avenge and honor the sacrifice of the Blue Shot</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i> by laying on with sword and axe<br /></i></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEirP2TtuvZ_6HPYGZjHrkLHuTtca2AD_FD547fuR8NVZ3f0to-843vt9u4E1p_wRJ8SX83q42bU_KqYeb6KXS35iGrd3_KPCFsaPIQCzu9AtUf86ZA4EUtbaWg37f-QFrTj4v_pAASJ6YnvUtAAq5v9TD1WIHUYGMTw08_vs7EoAd74jUuef0pg6G-KGg=s2048" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEirP2TtuvZ_6HPYGZjHrkLHuTtca2AD_FD547fuR8NVZ3f0to-843vt9u4E1p_wRJ8SX83q42bU_KqYeb6KXS35iGrd3_KPCFsaPIQCzu9AtUf86ZA4EUtbaWg37f-QFrTj4v_pAASJ6YnvUtAAq5v9TD1WIHUYGMTw08_vs7EoAd74jUuef0pg6G-KGg=w400-h300" width="400" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>while their clan leaders threw themselves at the Great hall with heedless disregard of the enemy <br /></i></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjWzG4zdEvUQvo6caFcWnFEGnVokyl8-2_p55RqhcDhiz1Rw9G1CbLAj4YE3uOaOG3TMCI4UgH82PSa-tncHhkuSThe2e1FCtgNJXJGun2gv1cuEvUH8UZDSPCZz9M85dIAK16GhmiNWFna1yJ3MrlI3aHBBQtJP0W_dhAD7U1ooN3atAtZkGY29OqzYg=s2048" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjWzG4zdEvUQvo6caFcWnFEGnVokyl8-2_p55RqhcDhiz1Rw9G1CbLAj4YE3uOaOG3TMCI4UgH82PSa-tncHhkuSThe2e1FCtgNJXJGun2gv1cuEvUH8UZDSPCZz9M85dIAK16GhmiNWFna1yJ3MrlI3aHBBQtJP0W_dhAD7U1ooN3atAtZkGY29OqzYg=w400-h300" width="400" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>around to the north the Great Lairds leapt over the wall </i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>and found themselves face to face with the Ferndalinan Shot in a blood-soaked courtyard <br /></i></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjbjn7aQdBthBbKy65z_jdmD9e7phijMrUA-MhaXSq-fFOedeR59p3ZqxotEJcblMR-k0SATj3M6j2UfiDd5Hvh4IwvCdRdtWAN6Vp6phYIvXCN8H18PhKrlx3cbgnvnHzoMTTjoPXW-4OglROmdRfwWZYtyTyYzd2wTMq3h5KPwqyiFONhUAe6ag27Tw=s2048" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjbjn7aQdBthBbKy65z_jdmD9e7phijMrUA-MhaXSq-fFOedeR59p3ZqxotEJcblMR-k0SATj3M6j2UfiDd5Hvh4IwvCdRdtWAN6Vp6phYIvXCN8H18PhKrlx3cbgnvnHzoMTTjoPXW-4OglROmdRfwWZYtyTyYzd2wTMq3h5KPwqyiFONhUAe6ag27Tw=w480-h640" width="480" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>the Commanded Shot in the Great Hall put up a bold defense</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i> but were no match for the fury and flashing blades of the Highland chiefs <br /></i></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhyTbL5dmxpDNn-TWurQoKbNKypsIkfYlnU172fULavmuoYxWWtxvHMgkhFwFajMPwP0QW7hFi7JuQIbNgAiUiNejFmWpmMgCGG7eWXAfu-Yd3xlS1OVWfcawvOMzNwIF5pittN6gzZfU5HZGJrRkoK6GL00sU5GqUgubTzk1NZLwHliws_EF7FV1MZ_w=s2048" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhyTbL5dmxpDNn-TWurQoKbNKypsIkfYlnU172fULavmuoYxWWtxvHMgkhFwFajMPwP0QW7hFi7JuQIbNgAiUiNejFmWpmMgCGG7eWXAfu-Yd3xlS1OVWfcawvOMzNwIF5pittN6gzZfU5HZGJrRkoK6GL00sU5GqUgubTzk1NZLwHliws_EF7FV1MZ_w=w400-h300" width="400" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>while the Shot on the road were shattered by the bite of the clansmen's weapons <br /></i></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgjHFmhFnil5Qs81nOvNbO8JgSiF91l7N4uPZFoDtDHgo3fZkQgVa7YHYfRPCliT9z6UUOzBk7P839wcQ9kf6Le0xTY-DUQm5NTyLDdOP0MBD1RibfsasBBQekkwoeFRiIXqoglufX8tjnFBhB7GOIfoL6oQgFUNqTpKoSLgfAtptlGioY--r2EwFXDqg=s2048" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgjHFmhFnil5Qs81nOvNbO8JgSiF91l7N4uPZFoDtDHgo3fZkQgVa7YHYfRPCliT9z6UUOzBk7P839wcQ9kf6Le0xTY-DUQm5NTyLDdOP0MBD1RibfsasBBQekkwoeFRiIXqoglufX8tjnFBhB7GOIfoL6oQgFUNqTpKoSLgfAtptlGioY--r2EwFXDqg=w400-h300" width="400" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>suddenly the entire situation had changed, </i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>the Ferndalian center had been swept away in one wild moment </i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>the troops in the southern field were alone on the gore-spattered turf</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>with wild-eyed clansmen pouring south toward them<br /></i></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEg8SFfy1QKaollOaCBSD7foQtktHWLGh8UzYTXASPqHQlTxLiOknBbsplRA-eBYSBu3PQdvPs81AL12N7X41oItY_2u7hrwNPGXUTudPi3q0ac5aFPsn_pg1Rjdhjd_0QuJ58IYPaTLeDOAGWRp_K3XoPGpHZWs2HZIrttGaaqZMHY1GQwHDL3UQzhLLQ=s2048" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEg8SFfy1QKaollOaCBSD7foQtktHWLGh8UzYTXASPqHQlTxLiOknBbsplRA-eBYSBu3PQdvPs81AL12N7X41oItY_2u7hrwNPGXUTudPi3q0ac5aFPsn_pg1Rjdhjd_0QuJ58IYPaTLeDOAGWRp_K3XoPGpHZWs2HZIrttGaaqZMHY1GQwHDL3UQzhLLQ=w400-h300" width="400" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>engaged in their own private war the unrelenting Commanded Shot fired into the Boozonian Shot claiming another soldier <br /></i></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgKon_um_H2Dv5_Fy7F0Pu3km75yegBd2zDxN6Ti2u7s3JfRIq6n1SY8iFzhInFSeQVNzs9NGAZQ66qSfHeIdSs9i0GCPgJCD-CoQFaIvDlD2wdfGOdiXBqmLJgqNzB7CnISXhMOstoNB7rRIek-FyXSQ4clm4NvA5hqJU2Ms6ZwLEcoZkHr87R-6A3ZA=s2048" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgKon_um_H2Dv5_Fy7F0Pu3km75yegBd2zDxN6Ti2u7s3JfRIq6n1SY8iFzhInFSeQVNzs9NGAZQ66qSfHeIdSs9i0GCPgJCD-CoQFaIvDlD2wdfGOdiXBqmLJgqNzB7CnISXhMOstoNB7rRIek-FyXSQ4clm4NvA5hqJU2Ms6ZwLEcoZkHr87R-6A3ZA=w400-h300" width="400" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>undeterred by the chaos around them the Ferndalian Shot turned as one to face the onrushing Clansmen and fired a stunning volley</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi2fYKaN54ryhXUgzSoVej8ERSRzp5YMuyT7oGa0XJq90D3ipWMIQgzAH_564gqw_3R-shM2ESnskEaILrjgrmvalkT7dYpRhFKbkGxcMP3e5ckMa1Jucij065QvfbmkwbyidSJP9-KxPX928lP3f9H9YJGY6TNIR5--53Yb6Hd76-bXbpxw9jvJw3iAw=s2048" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi2fYKaN54ryhXUgzSoVej8ERSRzp5YMuyT7oGa0XJq90D3ipWMIQgzAH_564gqw_3R-shM2ESnskEaILrjgrmvalkT7dYpRhFKbkGxcMP3e5ckMa1Jucij065QvfbmkwbyidSJP9-KxPX928lP3f9H9YJGY6TNIR5--53Yb6Hd76-bXbpxw9jvJw3iAw=w400-h300" width="400" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>a frantic and hurried volley dropped two of the Great Lairds, this only seemed to enrage them and they set upon the Shot with claymore and pistol, killing three and sending the rest in flight <br /></i></div><i><br /></i><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjY5MfrLfS1-8tBB0q42Yg9cZeT0sQ-PpVISWt91gZG9q0vqUvECBWnCRdasOpAvwq_l1eocyp374v5NKhxTH8sVHtCzXT8aElSiMum3fwhMwmfLKq4oKSJUhIJhpWtXZCTN1hRo030s8bx_2lUpOKLXSY-tUsDFpKed6g1Cni9uqQbjsS-hYmoMvieYw=s2048" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjY5MfrLfS1-8tBB0q42Yg9cZeT0sQ-PpVISWt91gZG9q0vqUvECBWnCRdasOpAvwq_l1eocyp374v5NKhxTH8sVHtCzXT8aElSiMum3fwhMwmfLKq4oKSJUhIJhpWtXZCTN1hRo030s8bx_2lUpOKLXSY-tUsDFpKed6g1Cni9uqQbjsS-hYmoMvieYw=w480-h640" width="480" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>as they pursued the fleeing Ferndalains</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i> they took fire from the exhausted Commanded Shot cowering in a by-way <br /></i></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEipEEx2lDUERQtnWAKi1EZbLPI10FCZ642h6AKhTC97GUUOeLM_74gtKFL_pGARdDppr-VUR0VMsFh9fQ_3Ac9ZRv6kn6GvWLzjgxoNJg8SHW5y7H4EQYNwiyxkSP46GjXR-iSgDCxlsnLYhRItgI-AJiWq63gr8MIqc8PxCSxPHs92WdYJmTWg-jsiAQ=s2048" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEipEEx2lDUERQtnWAKi1EZbLPI10FCZ642h6AKhTC97GUUOeLM_74gtKFL_pGARdDppr-VUR0VMsFh9fQ_3Ac9ZRv6kn6GvWLzjgxoNJg8SHW5y7H4EQYNwiyxkSP46GjXR-iSgDCxlsnLYhRItgI-AJiWq63gr8MIqc8PxCSxPHs92WdYJmTWg-jsiAQ=w480-h640" width="480" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>unaware of the turn of events the Yellow Shot continued to scatter <br /></i></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgKodJCU_FrmSlARoA8dLe2n428P0eI7Cxlxac-omynZQbHNFra7SiOLtEjxK_5aL288cpE7Lo_Vj9v9UIc9kbKaHzHx38nOma_JXKRLpCHhC67yniYu64VCGRGBpMxPjHtaXYR6sZFK-gGQExvEh_-ktZe0toA2D6wRmyzJgZnZiWXdh_5bZfE4xTqLg=s2048" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgKodJCU_FrmSlARoA8dLe2n428P0eI7Cxlxac-omynZQbHNFra7SiOLtEjxK_5aL288cpE7Lo_Vj9v9UIc9kbKaHzHx38nOma_JXKRLpCHhC67yniYu64VCGRGBpMxPjHtaXYR6sZFK-gGQExvEh_-ktZe0toA2D6wRmyzJgZnZiWXdh_5bZfE4xTqLg=w400-h300" width="400" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>unimpressed with the tomfoolery of musketry the Highlanders charged home against the Shot in the field of blood, to their right the Clan Chiefs pursued the fleeing remains of the Shot</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i> </i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEik3URa-FlfVfc_JjoF_1JSADv1h9wlOCcdOS3YWUR-mCTDtohobnSncxb6hmo93XSUbKEeZlqgO8xuj-Z8dEP2oTlY-hX_fyqnDHyh10ThPDcmYY5WRVcNNj96iRWogcsOJZwScDrOO-XL6vNkdyR8pKCyKN_0n_-CDnwJpczRCCX2ejW_Vwsx5EZcAg=s2048" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEik3URa-FlfVfc_JjoF_1JSADv1h9wlOCcdOS3YWUR-mCTDtohobnSncxb6hmo93XSUbKEeZlqgO8xuj-Z8dEP2oTlY-hX_fyqnDHyh10ThPDcmYY5WRVcNNj96iRWogcsOJZwScDrOO-XL6vNkdyR8pKCyKN_0n_-CDnwJpczRCCX2ejW_Vwsx5EZcAg=w480-h640" width="480" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>breathless but elated the clansmen laughed at the flight of the enemy foot </i><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi26GLHrEq2b_LVp5y6b1eP4H-bNCiTQXP4liB_pmYB9t-a74-QhQVib04x-u-pW4AsAtZl9YtS9jSfYTtSKq9QjuZ44xr0yDYeX4jUHAItGGBNqNlIsyEFEgu4pkQEPNHvXvRiit-v5uO6Q785cPoGoTP642NzE7iyKyEndZgYCUtWUnNiZ8zGSz2cfw=s2048" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi26GLHrEq2b_LVp5y6b1eP4H-bNCiTQXP4liB_pmYB9t-a74-QhQVib04x-u-pW4AsAtZl9YtS9jSfYTtSKq9QjuZ44xr0yDYeX4jUHAItGGBNqNlIsyEFEgu4pkQEPNHvXvRiit-v5uO6Q785cPoGoTP642NzE7iyKyEndZgYCUtWUnNiZ8zGSz2cfw=w480-h640" width="480" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>while the Great Lairds taught the sniping enemy a short and painful lesson</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i> about the wrongs of skulking and sniping <br /></i></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhlqihsuxxo9OEgcqKETw0bp7fkF5vhbWxIAGHrt8iV1iF4090TIINPoizg-nQnArNPyUN47CLz1Y6IIvWKiLoMmAm-Vo_rTdfa0JKrd7Yd1LFgD0uiuaPeiWBr6LOPGBxGexY3stYcNl-qlYiRAbIPY4O73dLzaJ79209onuZE9j8-fwl7qLVawuRoOg=s2048" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhlqihsuxxo9OEgcqKETw0bp7fkF5vhbWxIAGHrt8iV1iF4090TIINPoizg-nQnArNPyUN47CLz1Y6IIvWKiLoMmAm-Vo_rTdfa0JKrd7Yd1LFgD0uiuaPeiWBr6LOPGBxGexY3stYcNl-qlYiRAbIPY4O73dLzaJ79209onuZE9j8-fwl7qLVawuRoOg=w480-h640" width="480" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>they remembered the lesson to their dying day </i><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhCS_6S3HrKqKTOlskB63Wyxfo2NQZCQL2SwJXe5yXw-0CGcukXngaj-0oGOe7wHsD71VdLaI-q4bcUTgKhh_8g_LFMmlRKvbQdkrH7BNd1q0rOPYiJoyrjGDxSkiWlFn8LvubSzl6LDWk3kAgoRrdQZsCkOA1j2_Z74HBOwTyeK3ckV4u61CVpv9ODXw=s2048" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhCS_6S3HrKqKTOlskB63Wyxfo2NQZCQL2SwJXe5yXw-0CGcukXngaj-0oGOe7wHsD71VdLaI-q4bcUTgKhh_8g_LFMmlRKvbQdkrH7BNd1q0rOPYiJoyrjGDxSkiWlFn8LvubSzl6LDWk3kAgoRrdQZsCkOA1j2_Z74HBOwTyeK3ckV4u61CVpv9ODXw=w480-h640" width="480" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>against all reason the fleeing Shot rallied once out of the courtyard <br /></i></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi6tGmaMMdMED7kRqRl4Aj8A7at_XfMh-O57x8ZUkhyHwqSNPGLknI0Ss64tqC1nPTlZdLQ57rG7dUyOJ9XSExFd2ncAiCLIe2jlbBNJozE5k9gFsGJeDsOYWoHWVI9XPgurKnY5Owe1ofiqpIy-4tf2WH3n6AT6VRDg7NquaeMtZKUJ4z_r_B4ZD2rJg=s2048" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi6tGmaMMdMED7kRqRl4Aj8A7at_XfMh-O57x8ZUkhyHwqSNPGLknI0Ss64tqC1nPTlZdLQ57rG7dUyOJ9XSExFd2ncAiCLIe2jlbBNJozE5k9gFsGJeDsOYWoHWVI9XPgurKnY5Owe1ofiqpIy-4tf2WH3n6AT6VRDg7NquaeMtZKUJ4z_r_B4ZD2rJg=w480-h640" width="480" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>the drilled and calm grey-coated Ferndalian Shot in the Small Woods fired a volley that cut the celebrations of the Clansmen short in a most decisive manner<br /></i></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjHbCHbmybOfasYIPulFv0zi5fnq3DQNrptdbJ71c22zn3QVpt1oW3gF-7M_6qaWokT0pZZ2a5GelO4YWJsFMzLwn0yqAnFKzdLiAYuGCctpe7ZXxcDB2ffVfr-EIcibl6PX-14IjZpw9-GvC4m0OUudqYP7krMAIxn7p80UM6Dgxvsh4ORi8g2AXPFfQ=s2048" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjHbCHbmybOfasYIPulFv0zi5fnq3DQNrptdbJ71c22zn3QVpt1oW3gF-7M_6qaWokT0pZZ2a5GelO4YWJsFMzLwn0yqAnFKzdLiAYuGCctpe7ZXxcDB2ffVfr-EIcibl6PX-14IjZpw9-GvC4m0OUudqYP7krMAIxn7p80UM6Dgxvsh4ORi8g2AXPFfQ=w480-h640" width="480" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i> only Seamus McGuiness was left standing amidst the smoke</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> Both armies were battered bloody by this fight. The Ferndalains would end up taking the bridge as the rest of their army would arrive on the morrow but they were given another hard lesson as to why so few enemies had succeeded invading Boozonian territory.<br /></div><span><!--more--></span>Anton Ryzbakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07844552779982758219noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3523735026214294681.post-69487321377474700272021-10-25T19:52:00.002-07:002021-10-25T19:52:33.385-07:00Meanwhile, back in Epicurea<p> The return of The Plague caused no end of problems for the armies and their generals. This was in addition to an unusually severe series of storms that battered the continent. Military operations slowed to a crawl as maneuver became increasingly difficult and troops dropped like flies at the slightest exertion. </p><p> Only the iron will of of Peter the Famished forced his troops forward across the execrable roads of Boozonia, battling guerilla bands of Highlanders and dragging an enormous artillery train for the eventual siege of Glenfiddich. In the east his armies withered while keeping the Freedonian and Boozonian troops sequestered in Gruyere. The one gleaming spot on the map was the impending fall of Upper Vienee as it strangled slowly under his relentless blockade.</p><p> In the once-confident capital of Bourguigonne the citizens rioted against the Council and called for Her Royal Majesty to come and take over the province. Much to everyone's surprise she slipped out of Upper Vienee and presented herself to the acclaim of the populous. Even more to everyone's surprise she promptly set about energetically reorganizing the entire province with an eye to using as a power-base to regain the whole of Gluttonia. Her precise and exacting mind dusted the cobwebs off of the moribund tax and patronage systems and reinvigorated the military.</p><p> In the greater area of Gluttonia simple survival dictated that the armies spent most of their time scrounging supplies and forage leading to a laissez-faire attitude toward combat. The only real front was in the north where increasingly exhausted attempts to relieve the blockade of North Vienee by the Freedonian armies while the active forces of Proper-Mealers continued to batter the western defences of Old Vienee forcing the Small-Platers into the city proper and facing a perilously hungry winter.</p><p> In the Middle Sea the wild storms had battered the fleets so severely that they were unable to get to proper grips with one another; losing more ships to Poseidon's wrath than to combat. The Pirates were particularly bad off as they had lost their supplies to the Freedonian fleets late in the season and could barely keep their ships afloat.</p><p> Away in the west Freedonia found herself beset with problems, none of which on their own would have been crippling but in concert they were most vexing to His Most Catholic Majesty Louis the Ravenous. In the North the Huet le Mont was on the brink of open rebellion from the action of Nordlander agitators; the freshly-annexed citizens of the Soubise and Guigal valleys seemed to be little enamored of their new status as citizens (and taxpayers) of Freedonia and needed severe garrisoning, the Western Fleet had not been able to return due to the horrid weather and troubling rumors were spreading of a concerted effort by the natives of the New World to eject the colonists.</p><p> Without access to their Pirate allies the Mindorans decided to build their own fleet and set forth on their own. This met with predictably poor results in the storm-lashed seas; the fleet being driven ashore on the coast of Nylia where they were poorly received as conquerors and a great many were rounded up and sold into slavery in the south of the Nylian Empire.<br /></p>Anton Ryzbakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07844552779982758219noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3523735026214294681.post-60106991607863522312021-08-14T22:10:00.003-07:002021-08-14T22:10:51.485-07:0029JUN1621 The Last Stand of Glamorrigans<p> Alisdair Gammorrigan stood in the doorway of his home and looked at his three grown sons leaning on their muskets in the field nearby. He sighed and tried to think of an honorable way of sending at least one of them away from the fate that was now fast approaching; not that any of them would hear of it if he tried. The Glamorrigans had ruled this little valley in Boozonia for the last three hundred years and those three stubborn lads would be damned if they would be the one that shied away from defending it. But now the enemy wasn't a rival clan out to steal a few sheep or cows, or the occasional raider from Gluttonia or Ferndalia. Now it was the full might of the Ferndalian army. This army had made short work of the fort that had been built to deny access across the southern border and was now busily grinding its way north through the rugged countryside. </p><p> Straightening his kilt and tightening his belt he stepped out into the yard and called to his boys, "Lads get ye over here", the young men dutifully jogged over to where their father stood. "There is little chance of us stopping the invaders here, the best we can hope to do is to slow the foreigners down a bit so that the Lowlanders can get things sorted out. I expect that each of you shall do your duty but I also ask that none of you engage in any foolish heroics. There is small point in getting yourself killed in a fight that is lost before its begun". He looked them each sternly in the eye, "I've no desire to have your dear mother learning of the loss of all her men-folk in a single afternoon" the boys nodded soberly at the thought, they had seen fighting but nothing of the sort that was soon to encountered this day. "Now get along to your posts and let those bastards taste our steel!" <br /></p><p style="text-align: center;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJzZFSe9VnjnC8T3KRrJk21VO4_vw_U1I58DTKE3UkXaWwul0Whkoqbvh_2zFqplcBI5jvgpJRXYDE8yk1CGIlDbnExLdWjKEOFH70qofZPJ65LRvUqqp-HvLGsPDKtq6HBXzxRjAg2MmS/s2048/20210723_192758.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1152" data-original-width="2048" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJzZFSe9VnjnC8T3KRrJk21VO4_vw_U1I58DTKE3UkXaWwul0Whkoqbvh_2zFqplcBI5jvgpJRXYDE8yk1CGIlDbnExLdWjKEOFH70qofZPJ65LRvUqqp-HvLGsPDKtq6HBXzxRjAg2MmS/w400-h225/20210723_192758.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>the field of battle, each force deployed behind its red line</i><span><a name='more'></a></span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1jQZ4NBH25ZQLKyGHM_39vFjm6DhGjghpn34_nVnsHqp9CII7-nscsucaGtk4U8C51RRfVCGopZ6_lZ5XmeDi4hUYJPSauB4YVlG0pyGNCnVwBxdwcjjqFkaHc-1mx5iPtZmRQroSBKKz/s2048/20210723_195745.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1152" data-original-width="2048" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1jQZ4NBH25ZQLKyGHM_39vFjm6DhGjghpn34_nVnsHqp9CII7-nscsucaGtk4U8C51RRfVCGopZ6_lZ5XmeDi4hUYJPSauB4YVlG0pyGNCnVwBxdwcjjqFkaHc-1mx5iPtZmRQroSBKKz/w400-h225/20210723_195745.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>the Ferndalians sweep onto the battlefield in force </i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>(confusingly all the following pictures are from the opposite side of the table) </i><br /></div><p style="text-align: center;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgl8qLIYK381RfbViIQdDNlgFLs-ma7v9GovfzqhGL2rOyLNUqhUxToishlCVrAE8D3vwNeRTcdNdVB0kXYUCZRP13vBrY4qHq9_lWQK0TD7_SQ3kL7eQ68RqTSHdbMTy6b0orUJziVX3nR/s2048/20210723_195752.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1152" data-original-width="2048" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgl8qLIYK381RfbViIQdDNlgFLs-ma7v9GovfzqhGL2rOyLNUqhUxToishlCVrAE8D3vwNeRTcdNdVB0kXYUCZRP13vBrY4qHq9_lWQK0TD7_SQ3kL7eQ68RqTSHdbMTy6b0orUJziVX3nR/w400-h225/20210723_195752.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>and open fire on the common folk hiding in the little woods <br /></i></div><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYvGKdo4Y-8B_kgfbIjsuTrkaCjM51Z3CmcjEPgbaHRvzoaXscltkNm0IzKzl0yISnkv8yjPmACoKL9zpybP0tAtB-JLSXcCYFObRiuf3lM-4jM81aYug92-rFOapk9xB4WLeG8_rW8dBL/s2048/20210723_200513.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1152" data-original-width="2048" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYvGKdo4Y-8B_kgfbIjsuTrkaCjM51Z3CmcjEPgbaHRvzoaXscltkNm0IzKzl0yISnkv8yjPmACoKL9zpybP0tAtB-JLSXcCYFObRiuf3lM-4jM81aYug92-rFOapk9xB4WLeG8_rW8dBL/w400-h225/20210723_200513.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>the Glamorrigans shifted toward the enemy forces <br /></i></div><p style="text-align: center;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2QEsnUDg5HEUpWavPKPeLwKQDAEAWBMZKMy_h4VPkEj5GygV7dxSxCsOXVaSGbxfxWPaYDvwFgJJyJlkHThcb_rPMOiv1H6b1Yrz8aCiuzjxLHhRC_lvop2xBXkIfYF500RRUxjbndAzM/s2048/20210723_200518.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1152" data-original-width="2048" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2QEsnUDg5HEUpWavPKPeLwKQDAEAWBMZKMy_h4VPkEj5GygV7dxSxCsOXVaSGbxfxWPaYDvwFgJJyJlkHThcb_rPMOiv1H6b1Yrz8aCiuzjxLHhRC_lvop2xBXkIfYF500RRUxjbndAzM/w400-h225/20210723_200518.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>fire was exchanged with little effect for a turn or two </i><br /></div><p style="text-align: center;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikYlUlAIJc5Jcq8kiRonvdxi6EXrdqc4P7rNN4Ux6VP0ItdfKbA4OPaGPyr8P2ykcWFDJqIEZvEvsPxcUxdfCkLYIj5vdxjsLGfhooVEIYiM5vaOzhOB-Es8pjc47dYNnxWWNNbhuFiL1h/s2048/20210723_202305.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1152" data-original-width="2048" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikYlUlAIJc5Jcq8kiRonvdxi6EXrdqc4P7rNN4Ux6VP0ItdfKbA4OPaGPyr8P2ykcWFDJqIEZvEvsPxcUxdfCkLYIj5vdxjsLGfhooVEIYiM5vaOzhOB-Es8pjc47dYNnxWWNNbhuFiL1h/w400-h225/20210723_202305.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>as even more Ferndalians poured onto the battlefield </i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>the Clan leaders moved up to see off the advancing pikemen<br /></i></div><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyQwfqjxqtDfLYk_oMuZOaY7_-QcjMvQKRXQRMrr8QrPiwTAxL-jcX9wHOdHBaiiu1EO3bTuEl8Qcddph3T3y63QGMK1ntBgbXP26Rtody_pCCGKGQ1dIaHaxFVzaDMPIUiklEXug_EYFL/s2048/20210723_202850.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1152" data-original-width="2048" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyQwfqjxqtDfLYk_oMuZOaY7_-QcjMvQKRXQRMrr8QrPiwTAxL-jcX9wHOdHBaiiu1EO3bTuEl8Qcddph3T3y63QGMK1ntBgbXP26Rtody_pCCGKGQ1dIaHaxFVzaDMPIUiklEXug_EYFL/w400-h225/20210723_202850.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>the pike began to take casualties </i><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCx6B3C4h7XafEfU3KhlDPjqAv2yThG9MUBdkUDtclJJy5Qe9pcv_wQvy7Y9rfF67YbbQBB5TofaAygkaZgZzzpHLi__tba5B-Q3_DmPoLswQmLIS9LjmGQtyVawj6ZkjvVAjvMhxdFmHy/s2048/20210723_203612.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1152" data-original-width="2048" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCx6B3C4h7XafEfU3KhlDPjqAv2yThG9MUBdkUDtclJJy5Qe9pcv_wQvy7Y9rfF67YbbQBB5TofaAygkaZgZzzpHLi__tba5B-Q3_DmPoLswQmLIS9LjmGQtyVawj6ZkjvVAjvMhxdFmHy/w400-h225/20210723_203612.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>but the clansmen could no longer stand the taunting</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i> and dashed out of the woods to drive off the annoying musketeers</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>this would prove to be their undoing <br /></i></div><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXt9iOCinUm4rs9SIX-RLZlZbdHZOsy6QxjHU92-OYQKNimHoRFgRtmqfXS9767Od0hR1pOEOZSRA28Z4THMQ8Gl2o2r4RAv8P-MKBMAB7sv2UfgNvoPwP4Xih2eYt5ioaNElxMwWD7Xte/s2048/20210723_204200.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1152" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXt9iOCinUm4rs9SIX-RLZlZbdHZOsy6QxjHU92-OYQKNimHoRFgRtmqfXS9767Od0hR1pOEOZSRA28Z4THMQ8Gl2o2r4RAv8P-MKBMAB7sv2UfgNvoPwP4Xih2eYt5ioaNElxMwWD7Xte/w360-h640/20210723_204200.jpg" width="360" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>caught in the open just as they finished off the musketeers </i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>the ardent but unwise clansmen were slaughtered to a man <br /></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCDriJfzYT5A3K7wWJB1CjYVGq7IV52m8t_vzgcoRcFTzvorp1w3akVlTrWYimqYgxqlbgeDXTr6ruRhuHD0l5NKz00u_Cwya_z7rwVUh2DD3hzvH_vXwYOUpFizQV3TmhquDTWf_kDuxw/s2048/20210723_204603.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1152" data-original-width="2048" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCDriJfzYT5A3K7wWJB1CjYVGq7IV52m8t_vzgcoRcFTzvorp1w3akVlTrWYimqYgxqlbgeDXTr6ruRhuHD0l5NKz00u_Cwya_z7rwVUh2DD3hzvH_vXwYOUpFizQV3TmhquDTWf_kDuxw/w400-h225/20210723_204603.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>at the same moment the two leaders met in single combat,</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i> blows were exchanged and a single wound went each way <br /></i></div> <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhegukLpeqO31V7ywu-xmsxUkYImbFZyBpWOle3VW_yK6dcYftbGNzn55hO5cn9wJbNQXWBkFpVpAbAVeJalTqzHqefke4DOd1vGk7HGRFo1972D6G87V1bl90_HJRZTmIFo4ArUQ_LhrQU/s2048/20210723_205640.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1152" data-original-width="2048" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhegukLpeqO31V7ywu-xmsxUkYImbFZyBpWOle3VW_yK6dcYftbGNzn55hO5cn9wJbNQXWBkFpVpAbAVeJalTqzHqefke4DOd1vGk7HGRFo1972D6G87V1bl90_HJRZTmIFo4ArUQ_LhrQU/w400-h225/20210723_205640.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>the next turn saw the pike push through the hedge</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i> into a wall of fire from the two units of clan leaders <br /></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0cwO95MW7FT2dJXwjl5Awad7G1PPkldWqEin2ZQ6O5qwJryKYctCIFU9r16uoNbWeYb9JZ11fjuxO-bulSNVeo3InI1GdrMZXJP3Fv4H12lD8Q5uTIhR15f2zs8P9163M_VQNm-02kK8q/s2048/20210723_210202.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1152" data-original-width="2048" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0cwO95MW7FT2dJXwjl5Awad7G1PPkldWqEin2ZQ6O5qwJryKYctCIFU9r16uoNbWeYb9JZ11fjuxO-bulSNVeo3InI1GdrMZXJP3Fv4H12lD8Q5uTIhR15f2zs8P9163M_VQNm-02kK8q/w400-h225/20210723_210202.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>to everyone's surprise the skirmishing muskets stood firm at the hedge</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i> and sent the enemy horse packing with casualties <br /></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvnqw_K6gI3zE-B0gUAIBD1llHDsuBSVN5r9IblzJhPaGR1yMxAGVtyrZAgYl26obZWZaOot4Z9RGAJA47hFpwXJlFW4c358xPTjp-ld2A0O2RJCpRMNY4plCKUSqmydapXkD4UtiBrKTt/s2048/20210723_210251.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1152" data-original-width="2048" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvnqw_K6gI3zE-B0gUAIBD1llHDsuBSVN5r9IblzJhPaGR1yMxAGVtyrZAgYl26obZWZaOot4Z9RGAJA47hFpwXJlFW4c358xPTjp-ld2A0O2RJCpRMNY4plCKUSqmydapXkD4UtiBrKTt/w400-h225/20210723_210251.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>in the following turn the pike were pounded with fire from three units and failed their morale,</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i> the survivors fled the field <br /></i></div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimVk-_UhNIWKRa_OWlU3gukMuu4NhzOL5OmnVgr115g27h-K9SZbH1ZG_4l3KVldrhyphenhyphenPu2xD3E5JTAC4mq3kAzVuTLWMGyBTBy7xyMhFUTFHerTWdNOJ2D6ZL07VMCEpi4dO3kRI42_kOK/s2048/20210723_214435.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1152" data-original-width="2048" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimVk-_UhNIWKRa_OWlU3gukMuu4NhzOL5OmnVgr115g27h-K9SZbH1ZG_4l3KVldrhyphenhyphenPu2xD3E5JTAC4mq3kAzVuTLWMGyBTBy7xyMhFUTFHerTWdNOJ2D6ZL07VMCEpi4dO3kRI42_kOK/w400-h225/20210723_214435.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>but things were looking decidedly worse on the left flank of the the Glamorrigans, </i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>a flood-tide of Ferndalain troops were working their way around the small woods<br /></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i> <br /></i><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1ez9sL3Qk2fDILoQAgGejZznugSKWAs5xa6-gf2UgV_pShsql_sG1mQ-7NdFLVOgx6p6Mzdz-GxiD_-vtMtbhC5mnWuKvUC03kXP77r8DghzF5HzQxp0pX5o9ePnURV0RvjFVkQBc6Vym/s2048/20210723_214535.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1152" data-original-width="2048" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1ez9sL3Qk2fDILoQAgGejZznugSKWAs5xa6-gf2UgV_pShsql_sG1mQ-7NdFLVOgx6p6Mzdz-GxiD_-vtMtbhC5mnWuKvUC03kXP77r8DghzF5HzQxp0pX5o9ePnURV0RvjFVkQBc6Vym/w400-h225/20210723_214535.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>to make matters even worse the clan leaders holding the great hall</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i> were wiped out in a very uneven firefight with four units of Ferndalian foots <br /></i></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiReVNpPGhQ5n9aY8JoelE5DXkVnDl-jP3-is6HdWN5zhFZ-i_bqnd2AHNCeE7zTXAQmW5L23vhxLirN7leX-d6LMA5Z3J5GFG3nenmu2-eEzpBZdH4awhSezPQ7M2VcSlkpJHa5yw61e6Y/s2048/20210723_215350.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1152" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiReVNpPGhQ5n9aY8JoelE5DXkVnDl-jP3-is6HdWN5zhFZ-i_bqnd2AHNCeE7zTXAQmW5L23vhxLirN7leX-d6LMA5Z3J5GFG3nenmu2-eEzpBZdH4awhSezPQ7M2VcSlkpJHa5yw61e6Y/w360-h640/20210723_215350.jpg" width="360" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>driven mad with battle-lust Alisdair Glamorrigan lead his men into the wood</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i> to once more try to kill the enemy leader <br /></i></div></div><p style="text-align: center;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6FwCG1Q-P7RTOuV5D3zonLrrW36_wvipbzKqRFePEepU4NKyIEd__UQ6Ammw_P29IQrNroWRWb4-22gIrr_ec9aruWCM7qph-McESL15EaGQ7kUzUCG5L1U3Hs9pei68kqc_m-hZg67iq/s2048/20210723_215520.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1152" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6FwCG1Q-P7RTOuV5D3zonLrrW36_wvipbzKqRFePEepU4NKyIEd__UQ6Ammw_P29IQrNroWRWb4-22gIrr_ec9aruWCM7qph-McESL15EaGQ7kUzUCG5L1U3Hs9pei68kqc_m-hZg67iq/w360-h640/20210723_215520.jpg" width="360" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>they drove the horse away but left themselves exposed to the fire of three enemy musket units</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>they died to a man hurling curses on the heads of their enemies <br /></i></div><p></p><p style="text-align: center;"><i> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhp7phQCt9_IKs5_nxF_QY9QK6bjx1FO2jd1WQcwZCbbs4aAob6EYFo3QKzopVmlxafXqi69Csydo9Tnu45NzPiSpu09BB3OrVmuN6Yg7i4v6jj6D6Cc3GLSB4m-RivXbK8S4ZJBH5liPnu/s2048/20210723_215857.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1152" data-original-width="2048" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhp7phQCt9_IKs5_nxF_QY9QK6bjx1FO2jd1WQcwZCbbs4aAob6EYFo3QKzopVmlxafXqi69Csydo9Tnu45NzPiSpu09BB3OrVmuN6Yg7i4v6jj6D6Cc3GLSB4m-RivXbK8S4ZJBH5liPnu/w400-h225/20210723_215857.jpg" width="400" /></a> </i></p><p style="text-align: center;"><i>for a moment an eerie silence crept over the smoke shrouded battlefield<br /></i></p><p style="text-align: center;"> </p><p style="text-align: center;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWZHCvSukOyrw3FCNgRVRXum7rdPMVMkn0JcyuaDnGPrGxgzgI9wXB90NqW00NSxWNkmrBC0He83ZPkiYou1Lt1JJrPBe840ujT92bxBgVpgBd6hTRzcNQ3KBH6ZLzvM3K3R3n66JrG69A/s2048/20210723_220031.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1152" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWZHCvSukOyrw3FCNgRVRXum7rdPMVMkn0JcyuaDnGPrGxgzgI9wXB90NqW00NSxWNkmrBC0He83ZPkiYou1Lt1JJrPBe840ujT92bxBgVpgBd6hTRzcNQ3KBH6ZLzvM3K3R3n66JrG69A/w360-h640/20210723_220031.jpg" width="360" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>then an awful howl filled the air as the last of the Glamorrigans charged the nearest Ferndalians, desperate to spill the blood of the hated invaders <br /></i></div><p></p><p style="text-align: center;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHTUFGMYt9ig1GflvXU-KpY0HhD8Wg-ExljmaUJQVOVlckrvYRrbb2ydkLIMoOxoNoxFJkBF3E7bNFn1WKgXGVl3GfyOWfM8bx6JbFmqt8B9g3fiBvIDG0RifdCP06V7zYBOOi7I-Qu5PG/s2048/20210723_220200.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1152" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHTUFGMYt9ig1GflvXU-KpY0HhD8Wg-ExljmaUJQVOVlckrvYRrbb2ydkLIMoOxoNoxFJkBF3E7bNFn1WKgXGVl3GfyOWfM8bx6JbFmqt8B9g3fiBvIDG0RifdCP06V7zYBOOi7I-Qu5PG/w360-h640/20210723_220200.jpg" width="360" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>but no amount of bravery can stop bullets</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i> and they recoiled from the thunderous wall of fire and lead </i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>as they tried to rally another crashing salvo rang forth and they fell where they had stood</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>three centuries of tradition seeping away as their blood ran into the soil<br /></i></div><br /> Marshal Maximo Pavolich rode forward to see what was impeding the progress of his advance-guard only to find them collecting their wounded and reorganizing. Inspecting the battlefield he saw that the Boozoniains has stood little (if any) chance. He also noted that they had all fallen facing the enemy with weapons in their hands. "How can we fight such people?" he wondered aloud, "They face certain defeat and death without flinching. Willing to die for a small patch of scruffy heather and moor. What sort of chance do we have facing an army of such men as these?" Glancing around to see if anyone had overheard his musings he straightened up in his saddle and shouted to his adjutant, "Get these troops moving! We have lost another day, at this rate it will take all year to reach their capital!"<br /><p></p>Anton Ryzbakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07844552779982758219noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3523735026214294681.post-22868153973355427672021-07-29T16:23:00.002-07:002021-07-29T16:23:32.341-07:00Bourguignonne Marches! 22JUN1621<p> Having spent 1620 training and re-arming (and desperately trying to develop some effective cavalry) the Regency Council For The Proper Meal (a.k.a. RCFTPM, or more commonly, "The Council") had decided on a strategy to block the Ferndalain invasion of northern Gluttonia by marching north and cutting the supply lines running west out of Mozzarella. To put this plan into action they assigned three fully equipped and trained tercios and two brigades of newly-minted Mounted Arquebusiers. Leading this formidable force was the renown General,<b> </b> Luis Francisco de Benavides Carrillo de Toledo, better known by his title; Marquis of Caracena, or simply Caracena. Leader of the forces of Bourguignonne during the famous Battle of Hamburg in1619 he had been the mastermind behind the training and equipping of two new tercios and the establishment of a mounted arm to compliment the hard-hitting foot troops.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizzg75Q0xuLGJ4zfBgxJ9mdZl5FqC7GFu4TwkzMAFwp5WSlH-1lXHLsEQvwdhFq8NUxE5AzrIRdI3Lqy1rCa2dVCz1jNOHqrWaUW1fh4WaSSgn5H9SKLbXCCzd_j7yAXVV_9wtMsxu_Qp_/s352/Luis_de_Benavides_Carrillo.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="352" data-original-width="325" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizzg75Q0xuLGJ4zfBgxJ9mdZl5FqC7GFu4TwkzMAFwp5WSlH-1lXHLsEQvwdhFq8NUxE5AzrIRdI3Lqy1rCa2dVCz1jNOHqrWaUW1fh4WaSSgn5H9SKLbXCCzd_j7yAXVV_9wtMsxu_Qp_/w369-h400/Luis_de_Benavides_Carrillo.jpg" width="369" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>the Marquis of Caracena<span><a name='more'></a></span></i></div><p></p><p> Caracena looked at the rows of corpses at his feet and wept, his brave soldiers has been sacrificed to the "wisdom" of The Council. He turned to adjutant and swore, "If only the wise men who sit on their asses and tell us how to fight would have allowed me to bring some heavy guns those forts would have fallen without a loss to our side." He waved his hand dramatically toward the hundreds of fallen soldiers, "Instead we lose time and make martyrs, Damn them, damn them all!". He looked at the dusty columns forming up under the harsh June sun. "Now we have lost the initiative, the Ferndalians know we are coming and are certain to have a warm welcome prepared".</p><p> Duke Stephen "The Jovial" read the note he had been presented with a knitted brow. "It seems that Bourguignonne has awakened from it's slumbers. Mankowski was wise to build that fort on the road through the mountains." He looked up at his generals and a grin spread across his face, "And our artillery has arrived just in time to give those Proper-Mealers a full helping of cannon balls! There is but one way that they can approach us, deploy the troops and position the cannon between the infantry formations, we will see just how bold they are with a belly full of iron!" <br /></p><p style="text-align: center;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPyp7AjIcq_sYkljnsYFV7uKGrM6JZ52r-JAO07L5wRF4ew5yHw6pSS6i586nMVeHRu7pBdY7Aiq_g5XqB9DSpucYXslJPzMP7djyxAN-P3L1P2Grr54cW_9_zNNePEhnpger5zsSnj6-y/s2048/20210721_195837.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1152" data-original-width="2048" height="287" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPyp7AjIcq_sYkljnsYFV7uKGrM6JZ52r-JAO07L5wRF4ew5yHw6pSS6i586nMVeHRu7pBdY7Aiq_g5XqB9DSpucYXslJPzMP7djyxAN-P3L1P2Grr54cW_9_zNNePEhnpger5zsSnj6-y/w511-h287/20210721_195837.jpg" width="511" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>the forces of Bourguignonne, three full-strength Tercios and two cavalry brigades <br /></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgT5CxwWyYW6mn0kDNDjDt7juZrKmzK0-_rVJ2dQRkWJNJHg76ZWiaLOtb0xE39ureaCpv2rzYiQg2rO8WqxUkbJUe2y074tVqOs_KnskoNy0YbAOA3fUUfRFgPldJJDBwmMaWMj3gO5e6Y/s2048/20210721_195842.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgf1NQVJ5aqBWjaxwZhe38iXDrlnf8yg-us66moiGJH6GFyyXpFFKpP5B9wPk89efPjT4HyLhNb5WxR1A0OCdDvbhPsBx2CGzt7sa92BfL8k5L8vk1FDU5iVHhyT1cCSjMN7uIWaKQ00Th7/s2048/20210721_195842.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1152" data-original-width="2048" height="292" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgf1NQVJ5aqBWjaxwZhe38iXDrlnf8yg-us66moiGJH6GFyyXpFFKpP5B9wPk89efPjT4HyLhNb5WxR1A0OCdDvbhPsBx2CGzt7sa92BfL8k5L8vk1FDU5iVHhyT1cCSjMN7uIWaKQ00Th7/w519-h292/20210721_195842.jpg" width="519" /></a></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>opposing them the Ferndalian force, four medium cannon, three battalions of foot and two strong brigades of heavy cuirassiers with a company of halbardiers hidden in the village<br /></i></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_SBq0W7KJa4-wpHCSSJxJZkbq7e22nSW1bCk-JIrHaFgdDz2gBMWT-xTC7owORRWq-gsNG13DvYBq7t26w2k8saUe8t082jHM1p2W9Dvmp7Fmwky3g7r1cI5mmERRgptwoQ5nqbsWGHKI/s2048/20210721_201108.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1152" data-original-width="2048" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_SBq0W7KJa4-wpHCSSJxJZkbq7e22nSW1bCk-JIrHaFgdDz2gBMWT-xTC7owORRWq-gsNG13DvYBq7t26w2k8saUe8t082jHM1p2W9Dvmp7Fmwky3g7r1cI5mmERRgptwoQ5nqbsWGHKI/w400-h225/20210721_201108.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>the Tercios moved ahead at a rapid pace seeking the melee they knew they would win, </i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>the cavalry rode forward tepidly covering the infantry's flanks</i><i> </i><br /></div><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoDVkxprf8LRlBE3srOCVFKoARvdrCZmx90jRbX_tYj47imaLJs-gCVzXdAIoLtmgx8DF3ARpbml6cF0nQ0X_1Idkm-7NeQ_Dqwwj6VdgUBlWiqo-89xJFxmQqXAq6x17PjutbLlLmjdBv/s2048/20210721_201120.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1152" data-original-width="2048" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoDVkxprf8LRlBE3srOCVFKoARvdrCZmx90jRbX_tYj47imaLJs-gCVzXdAIoLtmgx8DF3ARpbml6cF0nQ0X_1Idkm-7NeQ_Dqwwj6VdgUBlWiqo-89xJFxmQqXAq6x17PjutbLlLmjdBv/w400-h225/20210721_201120.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>having little fear of their newly-formed opponents the Ferndalian cuirassiers charged boldly forward driving off one regiment and pushing back the other <br /></i></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZvdl1H8pV_OIt7bJrZZ1TSRdfWUslQ_SVuBsCMJ7ySiqTSBD4QWJaPVsatzOQ0PCoxRVebLKRc4Sg8eIaB39890jEi3KCL3gElTFgsAjrTxVamb7pGs6pv9upmBB2bds5UtqGvai6pnAG/s2048/20210721_201114.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1152" data-original-width="2048" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZvdl1H8pV_OIt7bJrZZ1TSRdfWUslQ_SVuBsCMJ7ySiqTSBD4QWJaPVsatzOQ0PCoxRVebLKRc4Sg8eIaB39890jEi3KCL3gElTFgsAjrTxVamb7pGs6pv9upmBB2bds5UtqGvai6pnAG/w400-h225/20210721_201114.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>on the other flank things were moving rather slower </i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>as the Bourguignonne Horse were hiding behind a woods <br /></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4SQhUDqeNmWvkl2bpBhjcoQw628hdl8D8kaivMrp7y9RngiBhsSMha33_RGIDPyOq0LWakcqVASTsRc2OPhFcaOk0JCygE2V_K2lk5rxrVnUra4-Ip-eb69zkyEG2jj0Agk7dVhsdWmbk/s2048/20210721_203902.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1152" data-original-width="2048" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4SQhUDqeNmWvkl2bpBhjcoQw628hdl8D8kaivMrp7y9RngiBhsSMha33_RGIDPyOq0LWakcqVASTsRc2OPhFcaOk0JCygE2V_K2lk5rxrVnUra4-Ip-eb69zkyEG2jj0Agk7dVhsdWmbk/w400-h225/20210721_203902.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>cannon fire disordered the left hand Tercio the halbardiers swiftly </i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>took advantage of the gaps in the ranks to deliver a crushing charge <br /></i></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiO9WNXfTYxBNHFUa4qBIIyTBDbWMYSq9fgIfITVAjFPa7TA29uczsNUZTPFt-vp4UZtQMxM9ILi5GDZaUKqZwvKfVv-EHMTOgTqHHnd5wHdJ1hPfiQaVdZNkbBR9x1zwyU8B_hDEdxV2BI/s2048/20210721_203912.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1152" data-original-width="2048" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiO9WNXfTYxBNHFUa4qBIIyTBDbWMYSq9fgIfITVAjFPa7TA29uczsNUZTPFt-vp4UZtQMxM9ILi5GDZaUKqZwvKfVv-EHMTOgTqHHnd5wHdJ1hPfiQaVdZNkbBR9x1zwyU8B_hDEdxV2BI/w400-h225/20210721_203912.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>this caused a sight rarely seen in Epicurea, a Tercio in full flight from a melee</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>I made the situation worse by failing to pass me Discipline check</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i> leaving the troops to rout away from the battle <br /></i></div><i><br /></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUJe5tXb-im0oBSS0S696zgWsg3CPU_OYlVQODoOfXEiEZgC5fKlPxzUyS8nqqKoG_skZWpizYRKXYmWNRW2VQ4k5jXT0oIRI617YEWxMHuQB_iQLMTnuzS4HWdfnWN2FAM3pm0UMKCWB5/s2048/20210721_204937.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1152" data-original-width="2048" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUJe5tXb-im0oBSS0S696zgWsg3CPU_OYlVQODoOfXEiEZgC5fKlPxzUyS8nqqKoG_skZWpizYRKXYmWNRW2VQ4k5jXT0oIRI617YEWxMHuQB_iQLMTnuzS4HWdfnWN2FAM3pm0UMKCWB5/w400-h225/20210721_204937.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>in the same turn the cuirassiers caught an arquebusier unit and destroyed it</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>things were not looking good for Buorguignonne <br /></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2m8njvaFG0-2_f9WNt_Q8AXEbc3B3kYuAF8JSEIQDHsvLMdRYmJqbrTtjDno6conGVQQNAky1bNR-pbgNLoAuBwgSWI88fXi2YtVhql8toigpMTaSR4sEpz6mBncwZF60OSH9X9S1ly6s/s2048/20210721_204940.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1152" data-original-width="2048" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2m8njvaFG0-2_f9WNt_Q8AXEbc3B3kYuAF8JSEIQDHsvLMdRYmJqbrTtjDno6conGVQQNAky1bNR-pbgNLoAuBwgSWI88fXi2YtVhql8toigpMTaSR4sEpz6mBncwZF60OSH9X9S1ly6s/w400-h225/20210721_204940.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>despite all this the other two tercios plowed majestically forward <br /></i></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0O2q3_N87eTZQ-Pn_WOpDmkD_k7Nxt-Wc9P6ZiXHSanr6Bnnx8c15C-yZHwjeQ_c2fwDJGJZ9xuivNPHjVIg5m-j_mXWwYi_RYQxKXl-AF6nh6FpiF6F3oyWJ9QeKmfhgwwyc2zG09Dlr/s2048/20210721_210833.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1152" data-original-width="2048" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0O2q3_N87eTZQ-Pn_WOpDmkD_k7Nxt-Wc9P6ZiXHSanr6Bnnx8c15C-yZHwjeQ_c2fwDJGJZ9xuivNPHjVIg5m-j_mXWwYi_RYQxKXl-AF6nh6FpiF6F3oyWJ9QeKmfhgwwyc2zG09Dlr/w400-h225/20210721_210833.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>at this moment I managed to get all of my generals to fail their Orders test</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i> and left my troops without leadership of any sort <br /></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i> </i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheMh2RWIWsS9xgNtbi-Jk93iicRdQcwuEIz5oKI6heSkEbqRpr4EgqVSW5wk1w5OOLYQnffucugU_IcnYFlGnp15qvUIZlvEZc7mlhr6pVEe7x_e2hUqknf0X1Q1dHl9HTfIx7m2LGhWSC/s2048/20210721_210837.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1152" data-original-width="2048" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheMh2RWIWsS9xgNtbi-Jk93iicRdQcwuEIz5oKI6heSkEbqRpr4EgqVSW5wk1w5OOLYQnffucugU_IcnYFlGnp15qvUIZlvEZc7mlhr6pVEe7x_e2hUqknf0X1Q1dHl9HTfIx7m2LGhWSC/w400-h225/20210721_210837.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>the Ferndalians finished off the remains of the Buorguignonne cavalry </i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>leaving the two surviving tercios surrounded in a sea of enemies<br /></i></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqURbE07BsDi2mKqcSmftTkicYGH73943A-jIS08xnJYqsvMASyZr3MeAlWhYLOHtzIpnhhsA7sHUm4EqLDC6GRxefjWzHVu8QmzIkeNhhZSpXn95QvYh2skSdlIaFPBBZZwh98cG8cNsu/s2048/20210721_210840.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1152" data-original-width="2048" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqURbE07BsDi2mKqcSmftTkicYGH73943A-jIS08xnJYqsvMASyZr3MeAlWhYLOHtzIpnhhsA7sHUm4EqLDC6GRxefjWzHVu8QmzIkeNhhZSpXn95QvYh2skSdlIaFPBBZZwh98cG8cNsu/w400-h225/20210721_210840.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>battered by the relentless fire of the cannon and now lashed by the musketry of three enemy battalions the foremost tercio broke and swept away the laggard formation <br /></i></div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> Duke Stephen dismounted and with a loud laugh ran toward the smoking cannon, "My sweet children you surpass my dreams!" he leaned over and kisses the cannon before sweeping up a gunner in arms and hugging him breathless. "See them run! The vaunted Tercios of Bourguignonne! Frightened away by the work-a-day mechanics of Ferndalia! Vodka for all my men and double for my gunners!"<br /></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><span><!--more--></span>Anton Ryzbakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07844552779982758219noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3523735026214294681.post-44042100955716819502021-07-27T22:20:00.006-07:002021-07-27T22:22:04.913-07:00You Take The High Road....10JUN1621<p style="text-align: center;"> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaeIwUbRT5gO0y_gwcpD4BjmoBqC988wbfk_baTH7DjbJ6C-86cM7UCQaVtxUH8ffZy02s4kgPuQW-ussATAmhzVuuFvO90XYCzoTcSf2rSK0-p0vHOaOMwqiNNQLVQnKXktXSHeiiXCZL/s1310/1621+Fendalia+B.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="627" data-original-width="1310" height="276" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaeIwUbRT5gO0y_gwcpD4BjmoBqC988wbfk_baTH7DjbJ6C-86cM7UCQaVtxUH8ffZy02s4kgPuQW-ussATAmhzVuuFvO90XYCzoTcSf2rSK0-p0vHOaOMwqiNNQLVQnKXktXSHeiiXCZL/w576-h276/1621+Fendalia+B.jpg" width="576" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>the Ferndalian plan moves into action </i><br /></div><p></p><p style="text-align: left;"> Surprised but not at all unhappy to see the Boozonians move east toward Gruyere the Ferndalains waited until they were sure that the Boozonians had committed the bulk of their forces to the march eastwards. Certain of the location of the main Boozonian army the Ferndalains unleashed their revenge and sent their main force north in a march against the Boozonian capital. The first obstacle they encountered was a small earthen fort that blocked the pass into the mountains. Meant largely to secure the border against raiders it would be the first test of the expanded Ferndalian army.<span></span></p><a name='more'></a> <p></p><p style="text-align: left;"> Laird Donald Huntley squinted into the mist trying to discern the source of the noise coming up the valley. Half an hour ago the Highlanders who had set out to raid to the south had come scurrying back with tales of a vast Ferndalain force moving northward. Huntley knew the sound of an army on the march so he entertained little doubt what was afoot. His main concern was that his little mud fort may not be enough to withstand the enemy until help had arrived. He called for his nephew Trevor, a bright young lad of fifteen summers, "Boy, listen to me well, I want you to take me fastest horse and ride like the wind to Laphroaig. Tell them a vast army invades from the south and they need to raise the Crann-Tara. We will stand fast here, but if we fall, they need to be ready when the foe descends the pass!"</p><p style="text-align: left;"> Trevor nodded nervously, "I shall not fail you Uncle", he swiftly mounted the horse and turned before riding away, "Fare thee well!"</p><p style="text-align: left;"> Huntley raised his hand to wave, "And you as well". As he watched the boy ride into the mists he heard the cannons of the fort open fire.<br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6L1H3MzEUhnSQIugqhcQjfjvSpxaR2h1XOQiRTwroiy2DTr7WcrgIBTLhI38ZO2PDLk38h2hEeBndK_KCDcIedgNAag4QosP1GCbh0yNNeMHUIliSlhAgE1MK6BqZwsoimPR6YjEmg5rp/s2048/troops+dispo.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1152" height="770" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6L1H3MzEUhnSQIugqhcQjfjvSpxaR2h1XOQiRTwroiy2DTr7WcrgIBTLhI38ZO2PDLk38h2hEeBndK_KCDcIedgNAag4QosP1GCbh0yNNeMHUIliSlhAgE1MK6BqZwsoimPR6YjEmg5rp/w434-h770/troops+dispo.jpg" width="434" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>the forces as deployed, four shot companies and three cannon are all that stand</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i> in the way of the powerful Ferndalian army set to invade Boozonia</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i> </i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgP-vsMSOlceJZj5S-b1pcITtRy2w6N65UXyn-0un7fh8onke5jYUHkQgaJO08NkEtg7IG2NDZG-4GY0Z-rZ-jTGdDSG3rxyfDtzQP3_y-w5I-kHRCDRQtFRNX3AncWddycKh9FvDeBZJ6O/s2048/20210508_194525.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1152" height="768" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgP-vsMSOlceJZj5S-b1pcITtRy2w6N65UXyn-0un7fh8onke5jYUHkQgaJO08NkEtg7IG2NDZG-4GY0Z-rZ-jTGdDSG3rxyfDtzQP3_y-w5I-kHRCDRQtFRNX3AncWddycKh9FvDeBZJ6O/w432-h768/20210508_194525.jpg" width="432" /> </a></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>the cannon opened fire as soon as the enemy were in range, seemingly without effect,</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>the Ferndalain forces advanced undeterred <br /></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj29kitkxsIzNsyA88kDaIWFjoaIv_TO6e3VPwbsdLKuP0eNYhPQBZJTXlzRqj2JrzeASb651nisPxhmOtRxjG-KR_K5h6rvQ7tD515RvoXIe59csiEfceLY3tf-Bjj9bFuEQ81fqjax2QW/s2048/20210508_201056.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1152" height="786" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj29kitkxsIzNsyA88kDaIWFjoaIv_TO6e3VPwbsdLKuP0eNYhPQBZJTXlzRqj2JrzeASb651nisPxhmOtRxjG-KR_K5h6rvQ7tD515RvoXIe59csiEfceLY3tf-Bjj9bFuEQ81fqjax2QW/w442-h786/20210508_201056.jpg" width="442" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>heedless of the roar of the cannon and the peppering fire of the Shot companies the Ferndalian Arquebusiers advanced and fired at the gunners<br /></i></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEid0Omiv1jDJ6M14B4hJzoghwAJziELiHt6CoesL6cB7xHARiC7hOTNz3GriR8G3B8CRAK-uKrMQK3tQ8Lqg7ly8VXcc7g5oPP_Vfxy41p1YE6prdxd_qTV1smRfCWsdIXZddhP0z2QelYB/s2048/20210508_205310.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1152" height="774" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEid0Omiv1jDJ6M14B4hJzoghwAJziELiHt6CoesL6cB7xHARiC7hOTNz3GriR8G3B8CRAK-uKrMQK3tQ8Lqg7ly8VXcc7g5oPP_Vfxy41p1YE6prdxd_qTV1smRfCWsdIXZddhP0z2QelYB/w435-h774/20210508_205310.jpg" width="435" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>despite casualties they were able to eliminate one of the cannon ,</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>far to the west (top of the picture) some Highlanders had answered the call for help <br /></i></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghhFzgKqNc5PivbY8PJoiu-6_oAVF0wQFn4aD4fRtH2846dEcn1mmeIxerCg6WtT-n-2JsrzyhYV2uIMjcSwhKjJo_MHJHikPmv4vgeoNunKrAeLa3Lh099HH_e-MvJOe9g7T-s4BxxfuG/s2048/20210508_212107.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1152" height="782" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghhFzgKqNc5PivbY8PJoiu-6_oAVF0wQFn4aD4fRtH2846dEcn1mmeIxerCg6WtT-n-2JsrzyhYV2uIMjcSwhKjJo_MHJHikPmv4vgeoNunKrAeLa3Lh099HH_e-MvJOe9g7T-s4BxxfuG/w440-h782/20210508_212107.jpg" width="440" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>while the gun crews were lashed by fire the Highlanders were able to distract some of the enemy horse,</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>not appearing in this picture are the Scots Mossers who were routed as soon as they arrived </i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>the Boozonian gunners were repeatedly unable to hit any of the opposing forces<br /></i></div><i></i> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi83kOeNmJd_mpbZtBaWgTe8alPO8edBaTa0Iwo4UEd8onR2qzLgP01vMkcYxMppYNheXvaYQyZFOYp3fgtFEOGiGJLH2xhh1NsbQxqBu6Fl0QBlUt2h35BWq1jJyHGQXqB6bRtpBN9vaAT/s2048/20210508_214148.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1152" height="783" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi83kOeNmJd_mpbZtBaWgTe8alPO8edBaTa0Iwo4UEd8onR2qzLgP01vMkcYxMppYNheXvaYQyZFOYp3fgtFEOGiGJLH2xhh1NsbQxqBu6Fl0QBlUt2h35BWq1jJyHGQXqB6bRtpBN9vaAT/w440-h783/20210508_214148.jpg" width="440" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>another round of point blank fire and the Boozonians began to feel the weight of the mass of Ferndalian troops arrayed against them, in the distance the Highlanders were punching well above their weight but could only distract a limited number of enemy units <br /></i></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCOkQ17_h8UN0akruOw9_fECbR1zO7CH9LbcW3cX40E4jyscvPB-UjyHXpvEqK31BSRbi7HOJ-b0ubgTR676Or0KAHCFYA9wgfKm80dlvU48LkK_qmtxq3Fk-UfT_Wa7Ok4S2dQVZ15fdg/s2048/20210508_215952.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1152" height="793" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCOkQ17_h8UN0akruOw9_fECbR1zO7CH9LbcW3cX40E4jyscvPB-UjyHXpvEqK31BSRbi7HOJ-b0ubgTR676Or0KAHCFYA9wgfKm80dlvU48LkK_qmtxq3Fk-UfT_Wa7Ok4S2dQVZ15fdg/w446-h793/20210508_215952.jpg" width="446" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>in the end the storm of shot pouring into the tiny fort was too much, another batch of gunners was shot away and the losses among the other troops in the fort mounted, Laird Huntley boldly tried to rally his shaken men but swept away in an absolute sleet-storm of fire as one of the Ferndalian units mounted the walls, disheartened by the loss of their leader the few remaining Boozonian troops broke and fled</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i> </i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> As the smoke cleared Marshal Maximo Pavolich began to order his Ferndalian troops to regroup and get back into marching order. He had lost a day in this battle,he did not intend to lose the night as well. He cursed and sent provosts out to stop the troops that were looting the dead, time was the enemy now, there would be plenty of opportunities to collect baubles later<i>.</i> As he spurred his troops onward he ordered his engineers to demolish the fort and to pay special attention to proper burial of the dead. They had fought bravely for their cause, they deserved the Honors of War.<br /><i></i></div><p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i></i></div><p></p><p></p>Anton Ryzbakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07844552779982758219noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3523735026214294681.post-33423787462892046852021-05-16T17:53:00.006-07:002021-05-17T12:33:37.299-07:00The Battle of Lostwesel Pass<p> As the snow melted out of the high passes and the vivid green of the new-grown grass began to appear in the fields and farms the armies mustered themselves; grand plans had been laid, mighty armies gathered and supplies had been laid up. Largely oblivious of each others plans the nations set their troops into motion. In the borderlands between eastern Boozonia and Ferndalia a dour army of hard-bitten warriors formed together with the intention of blazing a path across all of northern Ferndalia and joining together with the Frozonian rebels to teach Peter the Famished a lesson in manners.<br /></p><p style="text-align: center;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi50m0OB3yomT3xIC0vp-P8MGcshVy43i50W4GNDD0Jl8evFXuyCT5x8onwWF_PNUEudHqadS9Js77FOb8kq-it-LHZh2dro3IzCnKsHyQNthAXqW0TfJtEvIUlWBXYLvSjVwJiDzMFAkSI/s1576/Boozonia+moves+east.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="959" data-original-width="1576" height="303" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi50m0OB3yomT3xIC0vp-P8MGcshVy43i50W4GNDD0Jl8evFXuyCT5x8onwWF_PNUEudHqadS9Js77FOb8kq-it-LHZh2dro3IzCnKsHyQNthAXqW0TfJtEvIUlWBXYLvSjVwJiDzMFAkSI/w497-h303/Boozonia+moves+east.jpg" width="497" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i> the main Boozonian army moves east to seize the area around Gruyere<br /></i></div><p style="text-align: left;"> Laird Angus MacDavis viewed the arrayed tents of his army; the small core of trained troops were in neat rows and properly spaced, the chaotic tangle of the Highlander encampments spread out on the adjoining hills. He smiled as he looked on, this was the largest assembly of Boozonian soldiers in the last fifty years, they would soon have the chance to drive the Ferndalians out of the historically Boozonian area around Gruyere.<span></span></p><a name='more'></a><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEWACv1_ZAVd7NVVsZ10nUN9Klk1gkdyWLDodpK0BShXZrLE7WGGv0w6mBthIWaSJykyN5hRq4bcnN_SaDLv1ffcD7UuAwiU_1k_z8T3y624lBK_ji6PobiRus3vk25idwhfKJyLBMZMAq/s930/lost1621.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="564" data-original-width="930" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEWACv1_ZAVd7NVVsZ10nUN9Klk1gkdyWLDodpK0BShXZrLE7WGGv0w6mBthIWaSJykyN5hRq4bcnN_SaDLv1ffcD7UuAwiU_1k_z8T3y624lBK_ji6PobiRus3vk25idwhfKJyLBMZMAq/w527-h320/lost1621.jpg" width="527" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>the countervailing Ferndalian plan, </i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>one can instantly see that there is going to be a conflict here <br /></i></div><p></p><p> Our good readers will please excuse the papers and such scattered on the game table; we were a few months out of practice with the rules. The Ferndalian army was enroute to invade Boozonia only to find that the Boozonians had already crossed into Ferndalian territory. Cognizant of his task of tying up the Boozonian troops as possible Duke Nathan "The Drunk" chose to launch a spoiling attack, his army being larger (if not very well trained) he considered his chances as better than equal. <br /></p><p></p><p style="text-align: left;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXhiwc-Jd78r_8naNSIvaLppezbcWsmFfveXjim1TS-2OUv2GBy2Eb9WwF4FuCrz5EzW3e59aSniJi-4T1j0r1S5gsKx4Omw_HcwPt90bKLY9apVLbidoTMrgXszDM8XdIE6K8bBT5UEKm/s2048/20210424_193123.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXhiwc-Jd78r_8naNSIvaLppezbcWsmFfveXjim1TS-2OUv2GBy2Eb9WwF4FuCrz5EzW3e59aSniJi-4T1j0r1S5gsKx4Omw_HcwPt90bKLY9apVLbidoTMrgXszDM8XdIE6K8bBT5UEKm/w400-h300/20210424_193123.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>the Boozonians had occupied the eastern mouth of the pass and adopted a defensive posture with their cannon and drilled troops on the hill in the center with the Highlanders thrown out on the wings</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>here you see the Boozonians at the top of the picture, at the lower edge we see the center and right of the Ferndalian army, left to right; blocks of pike & shot, in front of which is the gun battery being towed forward, behind the small woods a brigade of Mounted Arquebusiers and far on the right two independent companies of musketeers</i><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSqUDOQnX6I5Tzuyx7rsVrRCznkGJwkXCMkvKFQwzmlmdhKLilhi-tQbcecB6S4L6pKNaR_ao1pp4_iYHXV9fYZS8qQNXu1BNMX_IdczQuSuOu5z9sjtR6yCCMDZGE-5NaXEt6UcuKwbmj/s2048/20210424_193126.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSqUDOQnX6I5Tzuyx7rsVrRCznkGJwkXCMkvKFQwzmlmdhKLilhi-tQbcecB6S4L6pKNaR_ao1pp4_iYHXV9fYZS8qQNXu1BNMX_IdczQuSuOu5z9sjtR6yCCMDZGE-5NaXEt6UcuKwbmj/w400-h300/20210424_193126.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>over to the left we see the southern portion of the battlefield, the Boozonians have the hills festooned with Highlanders while a small brigade of cavalry lurk behind the small woods; nearer we see the independent shot companies to the left with the brigade of Mounted Arquebusiers tucked between the shot and formed bodies of pike and shot<br /></i></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLVLZEJ20yHn1pxuaL946xnLNYYQIgEFUeiaztx-fTQv8QbqqDAj9JMuuKL6cGWaeYLAK_dUA7-gg9-rm1PjqXxa61RnNgjAjUJXS6WA0VuETJEdFrCVdgz2rmki20pEYBSiknJy5DJOol/s2048/20210424_193444.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLVLZEJ20yHn1pxuaL946xnLNYYQIgEFUeiaztx-fTQv8QbqqDAj9JMuuKL6cGWaeYLAK_dUA7-gg9-rm1PjqXxa61RnNgjAjUJXS6WA0VuETJEdFrCVdgz2rmki20pEYBSiknJy5DJOol/w400-h300/20210424_193444.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>in the first turn the Boozonians coyly held back <br /></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i> </i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjr2JBL-ciWTY5dHujmhXHnIVmYtt-53WD0PUFRZYEYOh_-s4I20zKP2MdZKbGWclVwsMd8xJGkclcvKA2JB14W4V2EekRs5GOQzU4T6mIxOMc27f9tGkY6JIlYedRmruvbceYpznNDbQRR/s2048/20210424_193446.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjr2JBL-ciWTY5dHujmhXHnIVmYtt-53WD0PUFRZYEYOh_-s4I20zKP2MdZKbGWclVwsMd8xJGkclcvKA2JB14W4V2EekRs5GOQzU4T6mIxOMc27f9tGkY6JIlYedRmruvbceYpznNDbQRR/w400-h300/20210424_193446.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>while the cannons battered the advancing Ferndalian foot <br /></i></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdvCew6zZZV318PtSJaIuzK1DM_wv89710BVgcuDKnX3J9JcAkbz8u8T0AMRqA4OQo1VWy0xtGBns0FY7WcEPlMQka1vUlgVZ3j8UvebJsgh5fQvCo0kRa-_tR0Nr1rsA5a8MzyN-3NRyt/s2048/20210424_193449.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdvCew6zZZV318PtSJaIuzK1DM_wv89710BVgcuDKnX3J9JcAkbz8u8T0AMRqA4OQo1VWy0xtGBns0FY7WcEPlMQka1vUlgVZ3j8UvebJsgh5fQvCo0kRa-_tR0Nr1rsA5a8MzyN-3NRyt/w400-h300/20210424_193449.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>to the south the Highlanders crept forward in the scrubby hills <br /></i></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8tiAlZQLkDMmHW3MbiO8KqsdU2OR7kzQ-oRKBXbBCaF-xd1_oM9M9glC1-ZgjXJ-R4XayMNWE4D1kXuw-2rSOCd55a5Cs_Ulnt6qHcrlguqfC7C3kqnA9YD10hen_l8waQpJnr8RofLWc/s2048/20210424_200323.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8tiAlZQLkDMmHW3MbiO8KqsdU2OR7kzQ-oRKBXbBCaF-xd1_oM9M9glC1-ZgjXJ-R4XayMNWE4D1kXuw-2rSOCd55a5Cs_Ulnt6qHcrlguqfC7C3kqnA9YD10hen_l8waQpJnr8RofLWc/w400-h300/20210424_200323.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>the Ferndalians marched forward resolutely ignoring the steady fire on the Boozonian gunfire</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /><i><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsBhvm7fl1IOC0-e-9xGb6HPi07boeO9n1M2oPEuXXLZlhhA4z3AjL1f0IpxTLd_yHPpt_Sa-dbeN3B7_MH2G_rzLHw0Aorc989K0gF540X6FWh5cLxgNOk0dR-Zrt8iJbJc63la8REwX8/s2048/20210424_200327.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsBhvm7fl1IOC0-e-9xGb6HPi07boeO9n1M2oPEuXXLZlhhA4z3AjL1f0IpxTLd_yHPpt_Sa-dbeN3B7_MH2G_rzLHw0Aorc989K0gF540X6FWh5cLxgNOk0dR-Zrt8iJbJc63la8REwX8/w400-h300/20210424_200327.jpg" width="400" /> </a></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>to the south the independent shot troops began an exchange of fire with the Boozonians <br /></i></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijEu-vQ-VER6I_Kq3UKnCXMKuhSQ0ZiN5TiOK4U66A3ZIbDxwjNQb0PsPapPUhCWFeAJqkpipVNUj7Phh_o4pWBCDJoTgc7lRpY9XWG0_C7OiNo21uwiywkc5uW7QXeD9eGSklsH5GHxo4/s2048/20210424_203842.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijEu-vQ-VER6I_Kq3UKnCXMKuhSQ0ZiN5TiOK4U66A3ZIbDxwjNQb0PsPapPUhCWFeAJqkpipVNUj7Phh_o4pWBCDJoTgc7lRpY9XWG0_C7OiNo21uwiywkc5uW7QXeD9eGSklsH5GHxo4/w400-h300/20210424_203842.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>as they got closer the Boozonian Musketeers added their considerable firepower to the pounding that the Ferndalian foot had to endure; they returned fire with rather less effect<br /></i></div><i><br /></i><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIVn2y25fHed6Co6wXWQU4u_vAoYNvTaK58BEchs2GdBAv3FI0a5Cz6dGceT5GgZ-_F5jfzQUAJ8qVgR3YIC0i1zgwAS-IjRjoQo6cKNHDxN89a5F1F1tfwkt4N8alAFcKjSNq0JIOLAou/s2048/20210424_203838.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIVn2y25fHed6Co6wXWQU4u_vAoYNvTaK58BEchs2GdBAv3FI0a5Cz6dGceT5GgZ-_F5jfzQUAJ8qVgR3YIC0i1zgwAS-IjRjoQo6cKNHDxN89a5F1F1tfwkt4N8alAFcKjSNq0JIOLAou/w400-h300/20210424_203838.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>far to the south the Ferndalian Mounted Arquebusiers added to the exchange of fire with the opposing troops, the Highlanders sent them packing with casualties </i><br /></div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvh89eSYJhhaLzis-SY8LoC3q4n0HuqKjtvIGmXmHhg-ENW2La17edX5g7O_TIOU1x12xSD6ItUxRpgkrMEUw2hJcccXW8Yr0ZE5hJ72tgbHeRY82E7xulQ10VB_vrOY-PxJJ8vgv_-AcL/s2048/20210424_211952.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvh89eSYJhhaLzis-SY8LoC3q4n0HuqKjtvIGmXmHhg-ENW2La17edX5g7O_TIOU1x12xSD6ItUxRpgkrMEUw2hJcccXW8Yr0ZE5hJ72tgbHeRY82E7xulQ10VB_vrOY-PxJJ8vgv_-AcL/w400-h300/20210424_211952.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>unwilling to endure the fire unanswered the Highlanders charged down from the hills and gave chase to the Ferndalian shot and horse </i><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeRkJy-uVY3F12BBM6AGYvbjoa078tS42IkcFsrH3rE3P-Z6MLXwWkMvUl2665Sfc3esLP4OhgXDgbfTpK01x07kvvs9zwqUhvu5P2LMDMhviY158sSCuVseyvYBOb4Pexda8lXZwDe8DN/s2048/20210424_203847.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeRkJy-uVY3F12BBM6AGYvbjoa078tS42IkcFsrH3rE3P-Z6MLXwWkMvUl2665Sfc3esLP4OhgXDgbfTpK01x07kvvs9zwqUhvu5P2LMDMhviY158sSCuVseyvYBOb4Pexda8lXZwDe8DN/w400-h300/20210424_203847.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>the Boozonian Mossers boldly advanced </i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>but were lashed with fire from the opposing Ferndalian Horse and Foote <br /></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBrzZ9rjGSLSM2wn0Kls6VIK2AWpljrclpTfCnSWnx7u7MvVJhOPhwC363mTNOVwhmfMQqgDfKQWB-vj7ow8xGvdrzbgxo0TbWazMYkiyepBAa6JrSMwvD8MAM_aDNQtmG_4OFcSps0tIJ/s2048/20210424_211957.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBrzZ9rjGSLSM2wn0Kls6VIK2AWpljrclpTfCnSWnx7u7MvVJhOPhwC363mTNOVwhmfMQqgDfKQWB-vj7ow8xGvdrzbgxo0TbWazMYkiyepBAa6JrSMwvD8MAM_aDNQtmG_4OFcSps0tIJ/w400-h300/20210424_211957.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>having lost a cannon the Ferndalians continued to grind forward shooting as they went, and finally began inflict casualties, the weight of the manpower advantage held by Ferndalia became a concern to the Boozonians; five pike blocks faced the much thinner line of the musketeers<br /></i></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgv8H2jLEnU6zBk7jTkpwXXoNKguWhhEb390yFlUaYNc8I0CgFtuJ6xiM0LP_hUJ6Y-iJ8rTz6DVTUWcduLsvnhVX8lZ9HaHJ_VMJ9KiQN0a3Cs7DbqBeT-MZRpNCCVu4P4gwHKn_GA4BL4/s2048/20210424_212001.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgv8H2jLEnU6zBk7jTkpwXXoNKguWhhEb390yFlUaYNc8I0CgFtuJ6xiM0LP_hUJ6Y-iJ8rTz6DVTUWcduLsvnhVX8lZ9HaHJ_VMJ9KiQN0a3Cs7DbqBeT-MZRpNCCVu4P4gwHKn_GA4BL4/w400-h300/20210424_212001.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>ably supported by the ferocious Highland troops the Mossers </i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>began to force a way around the northern flank of the Ferndalain army<br /></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i> </i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2xJQqGLkP_Ozneb_Lp9vkehBCwmPylPSrFJBe0eCaqdmIjqYw_ldRCDs_3iqPJqQeAvRflSAQIkeZvsmpdflxCXQUkEdXTsXIOfvps8J4Vs5Crl_s8KV_pc4sFqg0-nlx4r7iSctG8-Bq/s2048/20210424_220611.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2xJQqGLkP_Ozneb_Lp9vkehBCwmPylPSrFJBe0eCaqdmIjqYw_ldRCDs_3iqPJqQeAvRflSAQIkeZvsmpdflxCXQUkEdXTsXIOfvps8J4Vs5Crl_s8KV_pc4sFqg0-nlx4r7iSctG8-Bq/w400-h300/20210424_220611.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>while the same was happening on the south, </i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>to the point where two units of pike & shot were diverted from the main attack to protect the flank <br /></i></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1HoFNAB7PYRGDvqHVF4ByZBUCPSAChOJxnu0C_5PEbEHCvyPZiEbN7wbHTzlolvhDJNf7T3G5h1NufQ9Czw-pSY94lAt_ZuzTv5-GhLbRZf-EbCL-xmc9ogCfe5jBQTP8mzHzBVQVNaPW/s2048/20210424_220614.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1HoFNAB7PYRGDvqHVF4ByZBUCPSAChOJxnu0C_5PEbEHCvyPZiEbN7wbHTzlolvhDJNf7T3G5h1NufQ9Czw-pSY94lAt_ZuzTv5-GhLbRZf-EbCL-xmc9ogCfe5jBQTP8mzHzBVQVNaPW/w400-h300/20210424_220614.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>suddenly the whole complexion of the battle had changed,</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>could the remaining Ferndalain foot press through the </i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>thin line of Boozonian troops before their flanks caved in?</i><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_TkOGU8HPCPu4xmQggn2xqfpl9nkvDz2NbW8vu5YsJxJw7DUpIw9XLWGdrunnBJqwZYK-4IOQ0V2H8MTlKvYmJXyaO-jD0ruvPPFX0nAvWmTvU0QXw1r1UtnZT-cupklZwbzhGQK9qwqY/s2048/20210424_220620.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_TkOGU8HPCPu4xmQggn2xqfpl9nkvDz2NbW8vu5YsJxJw7DUpIw9XLWGdrunnBJqwZYK-4IOQ0V2H8MTlKvYmJXyaO-jD0ruvPPFX0nAvWmTvU0QXw1r1UtnZT-cupklZwbzhGQK9qwqY/w400-h300/20210424_220620.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i> to the north things stabilized for a few minutes with one bold regiment </i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>of Mounted Arquebusiers holding the flank while everyone else rallied<br /></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i> </i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBiNjS594wF9wP24JCT889VyclEneoDqXNihKJVKFO_sVludr_-KqqwIwuy25DrEfs9eYrx-GM5IEHRHTv2NdDbNNFDq8pHS3bniZuEIjoD9fPkdYfGdwAOT4UFmgv6p4S7XBaQNkYrHtO/s2048/20210424_224521.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBiNjS594wF9wP24JCT889VyclEneoDqXNihKJVKFO_sVludr_-KqqwIwuy25DrEfs9eYrx-GM5IEHRHTv2NdDbNNFDq8pHS3bniZuEIjoD9fPkdYfGdwAOT4UFmgv6p4S7XBaQNkYrHtO/w400-h300/20210424_224521.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>but things to the south now bordered on catastrophic; battered back by angry swarms of Highlanders the Ferndalain Horse had fallen back while the Foot had recoiled from melee and were looking weak <br /></i></div><i><br /></i><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHtIhWvBNgmI-WE25HIs3o9cG-vst3dfzAj7VI8dzqCAWBQjRsiq-BiZNr5xZMbCG4-RbYKxl7d4QgNGmUJrHkpHTDLMQednXyfRJMBS_HSk6QMR0-zWCPGi_XJx8U2N-DjjnzffO_2xWI/s2048/20210424_224523.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHtIhWvBNgmI-WE25HIs3o9cG-vst3dfzAj7VI8dzqCAWBQjRsiq-BiZNr5xZMbCG4-RbYKxl7d4QgNGmUJrHkpHTDLMQednXyfRJMBS_HSk6QMR0-zWCPGi_XJx8U2N-DjjnzffO_2xWI/w400-h300/20210424_224523.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>a far cry from the confident advance the Ferndalians now struggled to </i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>maintain their rapidly folding line and draw off the one remaining cannon <br /></i></div><i><br /></i><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_8Q5SEnD46nxaHG5TyIqqNvwR-5hX20hhu4Yxb5lqrjLvVlZhp6RKu4jPzLp2yOBmNnOZSFCvV_thuPhqjhjIBsrMoztJR956d-IBEv5ZK9gLTL02yFj7e3SaQE13f1MJW2a6FSBppUoa/s2048/20210424_224525.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_8Q5SEnD46nxaHG5TyIqqNvwR-5hX20hhu4Yxb5lqrjLvVlZhp6RKu4jPzLp2yOBmNnOZSFCvV_thuPhqjhjIBsrMoztJR956d-IBEv5ZK9gLTL02yFj7e3SaQE13f1MJW2a6FSBppUoa/w400-h300/20210424_224525.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>the final stroke fell when the Boozonianis launched a flank attack against the northernmost Ferndalian pike & shot block with a band of howling Highlanders, after this the only thing that saved the Ferndalian army from total collapse was their marked superiority in cavalry<br /></i></div></div></div></div>Anton Ryzbakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07844552779982758219noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3523735026214294681.post-41275924428606105152021-04-26T13:17:00.000-07:002021-04-26T13:17:06.604-07:00Anno Domini 1621, The Plans of the Protagonists<p style="text-align: center;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8PKUTpMAHhCLDY507aMs5KEL3nC-IgT7IfyVOgWRJKWkXly-huKOj_mAz8M6eYqUObqOQjWSYYUL7Z_potnVlGMpxjag5G9qcRGccpXI5uJk8WAUPTulR4TU53CqgeEi8suKXzIHqZVVs/s2000/BRM2914-Loring-Terrestrial-globe-1833_2-1688x2000.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2000" data-original-width="1688" height="538" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8PKUTpMAHhCLDY507aMs5KEL3nC-IgT7IfyVOgWRJKWkXly-huKOj_mAz8M6eYqUObqOQjWSYYUL7Z_potnVlGMpxjag5G9qcRGccpXI5uJk8WAUPTulR4TU53CqgeEi8suKXzIHqZVVs/w454-h538/BRM2914-Loring-Terrestrial-globe-1833_2-1688x2000.jpg" width="454" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>My, my......what to conquer next</i>?<br /></div><div><p></p><p> As the grass begins to green and the weather warms the various leaders contemplate action. Each has spent the winter spying on one another and has burned many a candle worrying out their plans and ambitions. Weighing heavily on their calculations is the desperate situation in North Vienee, after months of isolation the residents are nearing surrender; the supplies of fine flour and sweet cream have failed entirely and they live without pastry! Let us see how each faction plans to move forward in thei year.<span></span></p><a name='more'></a><p></p><p><u><span style="font-size: medium;"><b> Louis The Ravenous, King of Freedonia</b></span></u></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><b></b></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTIVVUyFBigWwZ_Pr2r6b-Jj6y9wXh-E7MShSSKmHWzpLWsRab5Bpo0F4NPasTKvWA9zrFgUhbeQvkX3rTd9RRsz1ctmMHGKpjOKyIO3v7aC5YE9ITDQaIAinYP_PZC2TZjDoonc_StTjo/s2048/1621+Louis%2527+Plan.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="396" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTIVVUyFBigWwZ_Pr2r6b-Jj6y9wXh-E7MShSSKmHWzpLWsRab5Bpo0F4NPasTKvWA9zrFgUhbeQvkX3rTd9RRsz1ctmMHGKpjOKyIO3v7aC5YE9ITDQaIAinYP_PZC2TZjDoonc_StTjo/w527-h396/1621+Louis%2527+Plan.jpg" width="527" /> </a></b></span></div><span style="font-size: medium;"><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">click for a clearer view</span></span></i><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"></span><span style="font-weight: normal;"> <br /></span></span></div></b></span><p></p><p style="text-align: left;"> Having begun digesting his "liberated" territories in Gluttonia Louis finds himself having to attack to keep the Ferndalians and Small-Platers on the back foot while also engaging the Proper-Mealers in as much combat as possible. The bitter conditions in North Vienee also demand action. As a result of this he has committed the bulk of his seasoned veterans to lifting the siege of Vienee and smashing the Ferndalian forces in the north. Newly recruited troops will be sent to the Guyere front and as assistance to the Frozonian revolutionaries. Meanwhile the reconstituted navy will scout the western end of the Middle Sea for pirates, Ferndalians and Mindorans.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><u><b>Gluttonian Proper-Meal Faction</b></u></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiplrTWK1IFsGMWwuoi-F3X54PkOPLQ3IVUjCsFPCNRkNP5gWxGOX7_XRjFu-nKizryCkcKMZXNs0xQbQVHhdiS-xBhuj4oZAD8FJby6nKH30Cq8MkL35gBvrr0-_j3Bpl_IDJePZdbwWTk/s2048/1621Glut+PM.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="362" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiplrTWK1IFsGMWwuoi-F3X54PkOPLQ3IVUjCsFPCNRkNP5gWxGOX7_XRjFu-nKizryCkcKMZXNs0xQbQVHhdiS-xBhuj4oZAD8FJby6nKH30Cq8MkL35gBvrr0-_j3Bpl_IDJePZdbwWTk/w481-h362/1621Glut+PM.jpg" width="481" /></a></div><p style="text-align: center;"></p><p style="text-align: left;"> While appreciating the help of the Freedonians the Proper-Mealers have pretty much written off North Vienee; they find the idea of secure the fertile and productive center of the country a more promising path to eventual victory. They have gathered their forces to cleanse the central plains of invaders , if it appears that the Freedonians are serious about rescuing North Vienee the PM'ers will lend a hand.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><u><span style="font-size: medium;"><b>Bourguignonne</b></span></u></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOGFzXu9NAgcX6f-dpoSZdjl41zTvl5KcvBXclmAHIziomEgISNmxQ2wVIon5zEOlp5vtxpUuKzcMlL0Frs039G6rpmQeI37Epv0Wc_qSzePzEJBEfSLLungGKcEhYLq_1Sg_XWS2wOgkY/s2048/1621+Bourgugnonne+1621.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOGFzXu9NAgcX6f-dpoSZdjl41zTvl5KcvBXclmAHIziomEgISNmxQ2wVIon5zEOlp5vtxpUuKzcMlL0Frs039G6rpmQeI37Epv0Wc_qSzePzEJBEfSLLungGKcEhYLq_1Sg_XWS2wOgkY/w565-h424/1621+Bourgugnonne+1621.png" width="565" /></a> Having sat out most of last year being busy training recruits for the famed Tecios and repelling Mindoran coastal raids Bourguignonne is ready to enter the fray once more. Effectively out of touch with their allies the Bourguignonners have decided to strike north to cut the Ferndalian supply lines in an effort to free their homeland of the repulsive Small-Platers. Another force will head west in an effort to reconnect with the Proper-Meal forces known to be based in the heartland. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><u><b><span style="font-size: medium;">Ferndalia</span></b></u> <br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrNSIapNZwDrY3zsb1-YHNgzp6VDT3hdu5o70uSL5RmXB9GF_4mzqmbOBp9Mfh-uPIfsSim1po33g3egXUlyUlWXtCq3ZKy0dC_prxbTcN6S3zyCq_n9-XMkZjDcKTPOgpIvBXAwePHgoa/s2048/1621+Ferndalia.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="445" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrNSIapNZwDrY3zsb1-YHNgzp6VDT3hdu5o70uSL5RmXB9GF_4mzqmbOBp9Mfh-uPIfsSim1po33g3egXUlyUlWXtCq3ZKy0dC_prxbTcN6S3zyCq_n9-XMkZjDcKTPOgpIvBXAwePHgoa/w593-h445/1621+Ferndalia.jpg" width="593" /></a></div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> Beset with problems and annoyances the Kingdom of Ferndalia has drawn on it's huge reserves of manpower and replaced the mercenaries with proper Ferndalian soldiers. Despite Minsiter of War Mankowski's suggestions that they finish off North Veinee the King, Peter the Famished, has decided that he needs to punish Boozonia for their perfidious behavior last year. The profuse apologies and excuses all ranf hollow in his ears and now his armies stand ready to execute a three-pronged strategy to hammer the upstart Boozonians into submission.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><u><b>Gluttonian Small-Platers</b></u></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><u><b><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></b></u><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5lYcAniXsp2vQG2ANEPQzPqkP6Cr7x3YRpF_nbYlryCEKjLmxyM8KnU6CTdHbJFOvQ8Kv3YLhScdTxKosT7MdoUjz7RMUgPrOkMXqCrRA27dnbP9t7U_LrqelAwy8r-tQ0UW4gfyVC6o8/s2048/1621+Glut+SP.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="375" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5lYcAniXsp2vQG2ANEPQzPqkP6Cr7x3YRpF_nbYlryCEKjLmxyM8KnU6CTdHbJFOvQ8Kv3YLhScdTxKosT7MdoUjz7RMUgPrOkMXqCrRA27dnbP9t7U_LrqelAwy8r-tQ0UW4gfyVC6o8/w500-h375/1621+Glut+SP.png" width="500" /></a></div></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"> Seeing the success of the Ferndalian navy last year and the firm support of King Peter the famished the Council of Small-Platers has decided to try to secure the entire coastline of Gluttonia, effectively making the Middle Sea a Small-Plater lake. The two outlying ports, Nantua and Soubise, will be the hardest so they will be addressed last. Efforts will be made to secure the coastal islands; Akros and Peralanium.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><u><b><span style="font-size: medium;">Boozonia</span></b></u></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><u><b><span style="font-size: medium;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSZ4FcHNAxPR55G6Px0npoBXyB-ldP1f9JJlAznuc2Vafn6QDruVf6Ns_y2xi4v_uaKFVUvpg9csD_wotK3yx2EjhZENVaEmJkhuAjuDHh0hlTzrlNR4xlESsqMvEZeqs0Z_Bae7wl1TM_/s2048/1621+Boozonia.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="394" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSZ4FcHNAxPR55G6Px0npoBXyB-ldP1f9JJlAznuc2Vafn6QDruVf6Ns_y2xi4v_uaKFVUvpg9csD_wotK3yx2EjhZENVaEmJkhuAjuDHh0hlTzrlNR4xlESsqMvEZeqs0Z_Bae7wl1TM_/w525-h394/1621+Boozonia.jpg" width="525" /></a></div></span></b></u><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"> Having allowed (after some significant bribery) the force of Freedonia to cross Boozonian territory to invade Ferndalia the Boozonians have not been able to placate Peter the Famished's anger. Seeing that they will not be able to avoid conflict with Ferndalia the Boozonian High Council has decided to throw in it's lot with Freedonia. They couldn't give a fig for the Small-Plater/Proper-Mealer conflict but they can spot a strong horse when they see one. Thus they have prepared the army for aggressive action to ensure that the fighting takes place outside of Boozonian territory. The main thrust will follow the path of the Freedonian invasion from last year while a smaller force will lend a hand in lifting the siege of North Vienee.<br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><p style="text-align: left;"><u><b><span style="font-size: medium;">Mindoro/Pirates</span></b></u></p><p style="text-align: left;"><u><b><span style="font-size: medium;"></span></b></u></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><u><b><span style="font-size: medium;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5XQLcRSc_3uVjRguZJOVLpoKyvF_dY_e1CAn5st7p85qjU8rXFl3uHIzC5QcFKffSDF0zuAy1M1QLsPsQtehqDFdXGkm5sgRUQe7LhAF_ObEl_1AgYtPqRSgCSExwERi39XBClE-9aMjm/s2048/1621+Mindoro-Pirates.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="397" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5XQLcRSc_3uVjRguZJOVLpoKyvF_dY_e1CAn5st7p85qjU8rXFl3uHIzC5QcFKffSDF0zuAy1M1QLsPsQtehqDFdXGkm5sgRUQe7LhAF_ObEl_1AgYtPqRSgCSExwERi39XBClE-9aMjm/w529-h397/1621+Mindoro-Pirates.jpg" width="529" /></a></span></b></u></div><u><b><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></b></u> Entering the third year this alliance has begun to fray. The Mindorans have secured their island and are now contemplating invading the mainland with an eye to establishing a growing presence there. The Pirates miss their old free-booting days and are chafing at their current position as the "taxi-service" to the Mindorans. Sensing weakness the Mindorans seek to pillage the Freedonian coast. The Pirates, taking note of the Ferndalian navy's habit of keeping station in the west have decided to give raiding Ferndalia a try under the old "While the cat is away...." theory. The Captains have also agreed to keep an eye out for a suitable base so that can free themselves from having to return to Mindoro for supplies and trade.<br /><p></p><p style="text-align: left;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><b><br /> </b></span></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p></div>Anton Ryzbakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07844552779982758219noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3523735026214294681.post-47239362113839886112021-03-14T22:00:00.006-07:002021-04-26T13:21:16.924-07:00The end of 1620 and the beginnings of the 1621 campaign season<p style="text-align: center;"> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXzCslceyhldbBvsnSt-xFueLw5tFAuZed8I-mzrRMSJpmjY2DlE1l0Y35XV1AMaA0G-lg_6qVFJoGLzuHEbPmqJX8SVuFbg-p2cve4HcSVGcis6VUIdT1r3I_jMISM2dfe8LFNVhbYuzv/s2048/1621+open.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="468" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXzCslceyhldbBvsnSt-xFueLw5tFAuZed8I-mzrRMSJpmjY2DlE1l0Y35XV1AMaA0G-lg_6qVFJoGLzuHEbPmqJX8SVuFbg-p2cve4HcSVGcis6VUIdT1r3I_jMISM2dfe8LFNVhbYuzv/w623-h468/1621+open.jpg" width="623" /></a></div><i>events in the fall of 1620</i><br /><p></p><p></p><p style="text-align: center;"></p><p style="text-align: left;"> As we find ourselves fast approaching he beginning of the campaign season across the far-flung plains and mountains of Epicurea it is instructive to reconsider the events of the past year and the plans of the manifold antagonists. What had started as a family squabble of succession has turned into a continent-wide struggle that has engulfed the fertile land of Gluttonia and exposed it to the predatory machinations of it's two largest neighbors. Further afield, revolt, invasion, heresy, piracy and revenge have all added to the inferno that afflicts the continent. <span></span></p><a name='more'></a><p></p><p style="text-align: left;"> In addition to the overarching Small Plater/Proper Mealer divide the <a href="https://epicureanwars.blogspot.com/2020/05/the-origins-of-hamburger-heresy.html">Hamburger Heresy</a> has been making inroads upon both sects and has almost become the state religion of the Burguignonnese. This area had been cut off from the rest of the Proper-Mealers by the Small-Plater seizure of south central Gluttonia and was left to defend itself. They have the finest infantry in all of Epicurea but are poor in cavalry and cannons. Finding themselves isolated they turned to repairing the damages of the battles of the past year and were well under way training replacement infantry when a series of punishing Mindoran pirate attacks in and around Nantua blocked their last access point to the outside world. Threatened from all sides they blockaded the passes into the land and began an almost Spartan regime of drilling and rearming.</p><p style="text-align: left;"> The Mindorans, finding that the Freedonian and Ferndalian fleets were busy bashing the daylights out of each other, took to piracy in a grand manner. The Pirate Brotherhood provided the ships and seafaring skills while the Mindorans provided the shock troops for land operations. Barely anything could be shipped in the Middle Sea without risk of capture and plunder, only well-fortified coastal cities were safe from extortion and looting. The Mindorans made a half-hearted attempt at securing Nantua as a base of operations but realized that raiding was more profitable. This raiding plagued the entire southern coast of Epicurea and extended as far as a foray into the Nylian lands on the northern coast of Africa. The Mindoran Shogun has grown rich and his ambitions have grown to match his wealth. several ambassadors have been sent the the Fabled East to recruit further soldiers and to coax the Chinese Emperor to send troops west across the steppe against the Frendalian Emperor.</p><p style="text-align: left;"> In the sleepy south the Nylian Emperor has taken notice of the destructive warfare to the north and is quietly refitting his fleet and training his soldiers. He covets the recovery of the cities of Gigondas, Guigal and Brouilly which were stolen from his grandfather by the Freedonians. The annoying pin-pricks of the Mindoran raiders have hurt his pride more than his pocketbook but he still has decided to put an end to their provocations. His engineers have been building a proper port in Liberica to allow the Nylian fleet to impose on the Mindoran homeland directly.</p><p style="text-align: left;"> In the West we find Freedonia quietly digesting the areas of Gluttonia that they have helped "liberate". From Marinara through Buerre Noir and Ravigotte to Soubise the garrisons are largely Freedonian troops supported by Freedonian "advisors" and "tax collecters". While the Gluttonian Proper-Mealer's troops do most of the fighting their Freedonian allies are enjoying the fruits of an almost peaceful garrison life at the expense of the local economy. But all is not a bed of roses for Louis the Ravenous; his fleets in the Middle Sea have proved to be an expensive fiasco, losing<a href="https://epicureanwars.blogspot.com/2020/06/gimmie-sheltera-naval-scenario.html"> battle </a>after <a href="https://epicureanwars.blogspot.com/2020/08/riding-storm-out-another-naval-affary.html">battle</a> to the Ferndalians while the<a href="https://epicureanwars.blogspot.com/2020/06/take-me-to-river-battle-of-belmas.html"> Great Northern March </a>(which cost a very large amount of money in bribes to execute) had gotten bogged down besieging the small coastal town of Gruyere and is now surrounded within its walls. All the while the Maritime Provinces are making very rebellious sounds as more and more of the troops are drawn away to the east to battle the Ferndalians. One shining star is that the Grand Canal is proceeding apace and is both on schedule and under budget; Louis soon will be able to move his ships between the Western Sea and the Middle Sea without the arduous voyage around Africa.</p><p style="text-align: left;"> Away to the north the Nordlanderz are engaged in a vile civil war over some sort of obscure legal disagreement about whether the king is allowed to wear his crown in public or only when being admonished by Parliament. The food in Nordland is uniformly bad and thus nobody in the rest of Epicurea really cares what is going on there. Even their beer is warm.</p><p style="text-align: left;"> Boozonia has played a very careful balancing game this past year. They protested loudly over the Freedonian violation of their sovereignty at the time of the Great Northern March and collected vast sums of money in damages (some say bribes) as a settlement for that action. They have carefully been fortifying their borders to resist the attention of their three larger neighbors while reorganizing their militia system to provide a faster, more powerful response to any incursion.</p><p style="text-align: left;"> Far away to the northeast the Frozonians have (once again)<a href="https://epicureanwars.blogspot.com/2020/07/wild-horsesbut-more-appropriately.html"> revolted to re-establish their freedom </a>from Ferndalia. This got off to a surprisingly good start but <a href="https://epicureanwars.blogspot.com/2020/07/nowhere-to-runthe-great-raid-on.html">suffered some missteps</a> and the Frozonians were unable to join forces with the Freedonians at the siege of Gruyere. They had spent the rest of the summer training up a new class of heavy cavalry and drilling their infantry. </p><p style="text-align: left;"> Occupying the balance of the east is the vast and prosperous land of Ferndalia; it's ruler. Peter II "The Famished" is as busy as a one-armed man in a juggling contest. He has to keep an eye to east in the event some random horse-tribe decides to invade, his unruly Frozonian subjects are once more in rebellion, the Boozonians (clearly complicity) have allowed the Freedonians to invade his northern provinces thus endangering his Great Northern Canal project, Pirates and Mindorans are raiding his southern coastline and he has half his total armed forces deep in northern Gluttonia besieging the Vienee. His situation is rife with promise but he is very badly over-extended and one setback could very well bring the entire project to collapse. Peter is ably assisted by his hugely talented and equally <a href="https://epicureanwars.blogspot.com/2020/07/let-it-burn.html">ambitious Minister of War Igor Mankowski</a>. One particular bright spot has been the surprisingly impressive performance of the navy which has nearly swept the Middle sea clean of Freedonian ships.</p><p style="text-align: left;"> And at last we come to the source and seat of this trouble, the battered land of Gluttonia. Deprived of a vastly popular king and thrown into a succession crisis that is being exploited by their avaricious neighbors Gluttonia is a sad and troubled land. The capital is divided into three parts by the rivers and the central portion is held by the Small-Platers, the northern quarter and the New Town on the south shore are held by the Proper-Mealers. As such a siege within a siege is occurring; the central portion is isolated by the control the Proper-Mealers have over the bridges that connect it to the rest of the city while the northern quarter has been surrounded by a Small-Plater army that repeated efforts (<a href="https://epicureanwars.blogspot.com/2020/08/fight-em-til-you-cant.html">Freedonian</a> and <a href="https://epicureanwars.blogspot.com/2020/07/shadows-of-night-battle-of-blutiger-bach.html">Gluttonian</a>) have failed to drive away. The lands to the north and east are under the control of the Ferndalian "allies" while the lands bordering on Freedonia to the west are being absorbed by Louis the Ravenous. In the south central area Gluttonians battle their brothers for the small part of the country that isn't being taken over by neighboring states. Dark rumors circulate about the events in Burguignonne. </p><p style="text-align: left;"> What does Anno Domini 1621 have in store? Only time and the dice will tell.<br /></p><p style="text-align: left;"> <br /></p>Anton Ryzbakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07844552779982758219noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3523735026214294681.post-40880754861800837932021-01-18T15:01:00.009-08:002021-01-18T15:02:58.889-08:00Run Like The Wind, a naval battle on the coast of Nylia 14JAN1621<p> Count Curzon stood on the quarterdeck of the <b>San Martin</b> peering into the gray haze of the morning; he knew that the pirates had established a base along the Nylian coast and he intended to find it and pay them a visit. Still his heart skipped a beat when the lookout cried out that he had sighted sails to the east, this was going to be the acid test of his hastily reformed navy and he could not afford a defeat. He signaled to the other two captains to prepare for battle. As he did so he felt no small amount of pride, titanic efforts had been made to repair the <b>L'Apertif</b> in time for this cruise and the brand-new <b>San Louis</b> was crewed with the best sailors from the Western Fleet. In the distance he heard the pirate's picket boat fire a cannon-shot, no doubt to advise their friends that visitors were about to call. <br /></p><p style="text-align: center;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHktZsEsUJJPOg5G98tPt7HsGRO-2IYKeRGnQRvdPrahUw4gNnrUDSBUE-EWjjydhKqC-SaugToJby6bDTtc9veCVIXDoSl-fMKgq6gkimHzIGqx9aawEynKFXvZo6WSCiunG5ZiyTp6p5/s2048/1.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1152" data-original-width="2048" height="318" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHktZsEsUJJPOg5G98tPt7HsGRO-2IYKeRGnQRvdPrahUw4gNnrUDSBUE-EWjjydhKqC-SaugToJby6bDTtc9veCVIXDoSl-fMKgq6gkimHzIGqx9aawEynKFXvZo6WSCiunG5ZiyTp6p5/w566-h318/1.jpg" width="566" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>the pirate base, a quiet cove to go ashore and trade (and party) with the locals</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i> while the ships are refitted and careened, most of the crews were ashore<span><a name='more'></a></span></i><br /></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhy-uQoKChGIaFSEqjx1seWDHWrZYMzp7Ptn9vfwYuVI-a6pMXaNFR0XZOxsJUxsvswFADV2dHQkv6zpU5fvOy-Tn5qn-MGoZU6mfpAvxFb4rdkvz0ord8a3SnvJfNCuWm221Pfweli1nIx/s2048/2a.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="361" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhy-uQoKChGIaFSEqjx1seWDHWrZYMzp7Ptn9vfwYuVI-a6pMXaNFR0XZOxsJUxsvswFADV2dHQkv6zpU5fvOy-Tn5qn-MGoZU6mfpAvxFb4rdkvz0ord8a3SnvJfNCuWm221Pfweli1nIx/w481-h361/2a.jpg" width="481" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>the Mayhem signalling that the Freedonians had bee sighted </i> <br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGmE1PvlEsjelVaG2QlQMMKvnb0copO5xq6p3MtKz318zRW9UEKjp0sQpLU09ufTSHt18Vvp6ExsPyPKU2ik3VN2drSlbKL1lq-L2CrCSXfLBlLyWLd38DaxGs7b1FqzxqvhvAeCkm7Uax/s2048/3a.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="356" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGmE1PvlEsjelVaG2QlQMMKvnb0copO5xq6p3MtKz318zRW9UEKjp0sQpLU09ufTSHt18Vvp6ExsPyPKU2ik3VN2drSlbKL1lq-L2CrCSXfLBlLyWLd38DaxGs7b1FqzxqvhvAeCkm7Uax/w475-h356/3a.jpg" width="475" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>the Freedonian fleet approaches as the pirates frantically scramble to get to their ships <br /></i></div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinRmIJ22cFGzOKYwbmIuRj51lvfMRVXeBH2ikmsdTX1R7hedAUoCI4hfr5yyMN_DVCj5CFvqznZIoGqWOQtTCaVWfDweBBFRGMayWJUJDcgLEql5GcSgix3Eip1ddOkqR3tkFIIZ1AhJ59/s2048/4a.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinRmIJ22cFGzOKYwbmIuRj51lvfMRVXeBH2ikmsdTX1R7hedAUoCI4hfr5yyMN_DVCj5CFvqznZIoGqWOQtTCaVWfDweBBFRGMayWJUJDcgLEql5GcSgix3Eip1ddOkqR3tkFIIZ1AhJ59/w480-h640/4a.jpg" width="480" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>the crews of the <b>Theft</b> and <b>Larceny</b> cut their cables </i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>and set sail to join the <b>Mayhem</b> in confronting the Freedonian fleet <br /></i></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqetxgIKzslV5ClG4o1_70jmyv-UsSiXrTLJxPuM2UV_E0wH2vTiNWoiWAc9CvI5qenWUSfbDfo4NZJmXo4ib_gd-jnwN20lIpAUrA1mYnSYZa2hr1DxtEpmqJNdTvTr5gj1vVimmXdh8v/s2048/5a.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqetxgIKzslV5ClG4o1_70jmyv-UsSiXrTLJxPuM2UV_E0wH2vTiNWoiWAc9CvI5qenWUSfbDfo4NZJmXo4ib_gd-jnwN20lIpAUrA1mYnSYZa2hr1DxtEpmqJNdTvTr5gj1vVimmXdh8v/w480-h640/5a.jpg" width="480" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>eager to begin the chastisement of the brigands the<b> San Martin </b>and <b>L'Apertif</b> open fire on <b>Theft</b> </i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>while the <b>Larceny</b> moves purposefully (if perhaps foolishly) toward the great galleons <br /></i></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJxvtzmQS7DY3Kv_L7Xk-9S1dSLO5f_E1sdgkLER49kV7cNFwF_6Sp7koFBiIKKTIvNqI5VeGyq9jPhscFryLhL75lI40QLxXMZcvVsxme1aqJ3Vo5V4FElciKsbUGwAUf-Ju7S3ZhPz03/s2048/6a.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJxvtzmQS7DY3Kv_L7Xk-9S1dSLO5f_E1sdgkLER49kV7cNFwF_6Sp7koFBiIKKTIvNqI5VeGyq9jPhscFryLhL75lI40QLxXMZcvVsxme1aqJ3Vo5V4FElciKsbUGwAUf-Ju7S3ZhPz03/w480-h640/6a.jpg" width="480" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>true to the craven nature of criminals <b>Theft </b>simply flees after firing an ineffectual broadside, leaving <b>Mayhem</b> and<b> Larceny</b> to confront the Freedonians while <b>Cruelty</b> and <b>Robbery</b> are still loading up their crews and setting sails<br /></i></div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfLdhTuGaSkiZmNYC8wGLtW4r2GA8IHNgFipAMyBm5ajeajGTYjsOKaCV8NgNvOTNah-C26YsJrkD6dNcHY7sYmM7H7eNIjcRxoBnnaUkfUvxb8gpcl_3TGG9LI4ZxG2Sv8I0z3Kz_qR2j/s2048/7a.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfLdhTuGaSkiZmNYC8wGLtW4r2GA8IHNgFipAMyBm5ajeajGTYjsOKaCV8NgNvOTNah-C26YsJrkD6dNcHY7sYmM7H7eNIjcRxoBnnaUkfUvxb8gpcl_3TGG9LI4ZxG2Sv8I0z3Kz_qR2j/w480-h640/7a.jpg" width="480" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i><b>Cruelty </b>finally gets under way as the multitude of marines abroad <b>San Martin</b> lashes <b>Larceny</b> with musketry and <b>San Louis</b> blasts <b>Mayhem</b> with an initial broadside, Robbery is strangely inactive...</i><br /></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsOrMdOfdq6pO8N1jKL2_xTQyHhPbXQfzV7IsxhyphenhyphenoHwe5VjgkcnixmnEwn5iN35zmegWiPL0BMncDfhkktb-_Lg9ANTGkyKwJJM9wczMybvvAp8v-kjxo2696WsVelXWyNsNm_CRpE_9XR/s2048/8a.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsOrMdOfdq6pO8N1jKL2_xTQyHhPbXQfzV7IsxhyphenhyphenoHwe5VjgkcnixmnEwn5iN35zmegWiPL0BMncDfhkktb-_Lg9ANTGkyKwJJM9wczMybvvAp8v-kjxo2696WsVelXWyNsNm_CRpE_9XR/w480-h640/8a.jpg" width="480" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>the reloaded <b>San Martin</b> fires on both<b> Cruelty</b> and <b>Larceny</b> (and gives them both a </i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>dose of musketry as well) while <b>San Louis</b> and <b>Mayhem</b> exchange short-range unpleasantness</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i><b>Cruelty</b> fires her tiny guns in defiance and <b>Larceny </b>blasts away at <b>San Martin </b>damage is really piling up on <b>Larceny</b></i> <br /></div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinH1QIIEvSYgiSMfS6rEgOvy438NBKOG1R24gi0IjMDGhzxeljCjxk9RnFEOK93rBYK6YX0hh2Sa3UN4XUDy-wBM5V93WMcrQaS7PVYXv84Rjuv1DSo_jr2PAiB1raILvK-Yhyphenhyphendmnk7aRe/s2048/9a.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="364" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinH1QIIEvSYgiSMfS6rEgOvy438NBKOG1R24gi0IjMDGhzxeljCjxk9RnFEOK93rBYK6YX0hh2Sa3UN4XUDy-wBM5V93WMcrQaS7PVYXv84Rjuv1DSo_jr2PAiB1raILvK-Yhyphenhyphendmnk7aRe/w485-h364/9a.jpg" width="485" /></a></div><i>a closer view of the action, in the background <b>Robbery</b> is suspiciously inactive</i><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidj_xV0oP9OjuVbs6FZIfdzDw0-EdMChuEw05K8o5zOuI5J5Z5D27vV9p6RIGTL-ajU94cH7rOOk9oKtqxQI3Lre3un0uWfWFqIdYnzZPMERkW_Yrp99x9SPvo2capw0M9APV3-Yvjg4vG/s2048/10a.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidj_xV0oP9OjuVbs6FZIfdzDw0-EdMChuEw05K8o5zOuI5J5Z5D27vV9p6RIGTL-ajU94cH7rOOk9oKtqxQI3Lre3un0uWfWFqIdYnzZPMERkW_Yrp99x9SPvo2capw0M9APV3-Yvjg4vG/w480-h640/10a.jpg" width="480" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>the (unusually so for a pirate) heroic <b>Larceny</b> continued it lopsided battle with the Freedonians, sinking as a result of the combined initial broadsides of<b> San Louis</b> and<b> L'Apertif</b> while <b>Cruelty</b> and <b>Mayhem</b> flee to the west and <b>Robbery</b> bends on full sail and shamefully retreats eastward without firing a shot<br /></i></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6Hb6FNjZIGF5Gte6DP5Y-p6TjBu-7B82eEl00loP1ZffuwGnxArnLVbBtaFEfRQW4mEeOq9_W8Fs22BDMcg7HRuy2WD-uJlqVolELWOOyEDn7sp5OrfSWkJ39R2atx3qDvjDmVyd27Uso/s2048/11.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="358" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6Hb6FNjZIGF5Gte6DP5Y-p6TjBu-7B82eEl00loP1ZffuwGnxArnLVbBtaFEfRQW4mEeOq9_W8Fs22BDMcg7HRuy2WD-uJlqVolELWOOyEDn7sp5OrfSWkJ39R2atx3qDvjDmVyd27Uso/w477-h358/11.jpg" width="477" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>despite best efforts the Freedonians are unable to bring the cowardly <b>Robbery</b> to heel </i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>and must watch her escape into the distance, the falling wind almost immobilizes the larger</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i> ships of the Freedonian fleet at the mouth of the cove</i></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiodMdlnNhYsSYLJDS1e9y4ERAjfNuzHbPZs6RkGnU9D386S8fBSZ47J9OpAPNzLiiHOp0Vv9Um90YwdhXk5KBG2GrUQa4JcV8axlTwB8kQXmLTddPU9_pjYZzOytrCSG7QsRsXIrrdwz8Y/s2048/12.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="359" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiodMdlnNhYsSYLJDS1e9y4ERAjfNuzHbPZs6RkGnU9D386S8fBSZ47J9OpAPNzLiiHOp0Vv9Um90YwdhXk5KBG2GrUQa4JcV8axlTwB8kQXmLTddPU9_pjYZzOytrCSG7QsRsXIrrdwz8Y/w478-h359/12.jpg" width="478" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>however, the pirates had no time to pack, the Freedonian fleet goes ashore to loot the</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i> camp of treasure and supplies and then burn anything that can't be carried away,</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i> it will be along harsh winter for the fleeing pirates, no money, no supplies and no tools for repairs<br /></i></div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> Count Curzon looked on with pride as his sailors dropped anchor and began lowering boats, the men had fought well and the pirate fleet had been scattered. Most of the boats headed ashore to begin destroying and looting the pirate base camp while a few headed out to sea to capture the survivors of the sunken Larceny, these most likely would end their days in a gibbet as a warning to others thinking of such a life. The victory would serve to raise the confidence of the sailors as well as making them wealthy, which was just as well the Count knew that the Ferndalian fleet would be a much tougher opponent and he was determined to drive them back to the eastern end of the Middle Sea.<br /></div>Anton Ryzbakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07844552779982758219noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3523735026214294681.post-42702564991407061412020-12-22T19:27:00.020-08:002020-12-22T19:36:39.020-08:00Under Pressure; The Second Battle of Gruyere 19DEC1620<p> </p><p style="text-align: center;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiztZjAnlkY0MXk29wrT0fKK_Um3Ipv0J1-TooCodHRYOOK5RuaQtXBfqM6rc0BCb_-yFFyaw-rfdTWti6UWcONxUZtjsqmOU3ocqn9_qa6O6Y0Fany2rBi2Hqb0aSV1omUWjbUkQBzyF1A/s512/gen.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="343" data-original-width="512" height="268" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiztZjAnlkY0MXk29wrT0fKK_Um3Ipv0J1-TooCodHRYOOK5RuaQtXBfqM6rc0BCb_-yFFyaw-rfdTWti6UWcONxUZtjsqmOU3ocqn9_qa6O6Y0Fany2rBi2Hqb0aSV1omUWjbUkQBzyF1A/w400-h268/gen.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>the Comte du Fromage and his generals</i><br /></div><div><i> </i><p></p><p> The Comte du Fromage stood before his generals and raised a glass "To the health of his Majesty, Louis XIII, King of Freedonia, Ruler of the Western Seas and Guardian of the Faith" he exclaimed, the assembled generals shouted their assent and drank their draughts. "That being said we must now consider what we need to do to guarantee our own good health" the weary Comte intoned. <span></span></p><a name='more'></a><p></p><p> "Our army is assembled as one entity now, we have the town secured behind us but it's walls are ruined. I blame myself for that but the situation remains, before us will stand the hastily-raised militia of Ferndalia. Do not take them lightly; they outnumber us two-to-one and are well armed despite the rawness of the soldiers. They fight for their homeland upon its sacred soil against an invading army. I know Duke Ivan personally; he is a brave and ardent man who will spare no effort to drive us into the sea. We must batter that army into ruins to ensure that they will not molest us over the coming winter as we rebuild the walls of Gruyere and secure the port. As you well know the Western Fleet was supposed to be here a week ago but the winds have been persistently from the East and The Lord alone knows when that will change; we must consider that we will be left to our own devices for the time being." </p><p> There were murmurs among the assembled officers about the Navy and the wisdom of relying upon them as a means of supply. The Comte squinted at them with his one good eye and growled, "I'll hear none of that, we all serve the King as best we can, ships can no more sail upwind than you can march on water. They will arrive as soon as they physically can, my brother commands that fleet and he is twice as brave as I am. Our job is to find a way the engage and defeat the enemy on the morrow." </p><p> He turned to the large canvas sheet upon which displayed a rough map of the lands just south of Gruyere, "We will use the town to anchor our northern flank and deploy all our cavalry on the southern flank to stop the enemy from turning us. The 8th and 9th Regiments of the Line will drive toward the enemy body to violently assault it, we cannot afford to become engaged in a firefight where their numbers can wear us down. Green troops fear the blade more than the bullet and our sudden onset will make them think of the comforts of home! The 6th and 7th regiments will bridge the gap between the town and the center of the line. Due to the vast number of enemy soldiers facing us we will offer them parole if captured; they are free to go but they will be stripped of their coats, boots and weapons before being released. We can't imprison them all and I don't care to stain the King's honor by slaying prisoners......that is a Nordlander thing to do. Now go, attend to your troops and ensure they have had a good meal before this long day begins"</p><p> Ivan the Bitter saw to the billets of the late-arriving units. He would have to force a battle on the morrow and the extra manpower was most welcome. His only concern was the quality of the soldiers, three months training and they would be a force to be reckoned with; today they were as green as Spring grass. It sickened him to have to ask these youths to face the battle-hardened forces of the Freedonians but at least they had a crushing superiority in manpower. He ordered his secretary to assemble the generals at his tent so that they could consider plans for the coming battle.</p><p> After the officers had been seated he stepped to the front of the tent, "Gentlemen, we have before a formidable task. We must ask our barely-trained soldiers to defeat the veterans of Freedonia on the open field. Our men are willing, but we all know how easily frightened green troops can be, we will have to lead by example. I, for one, would rather die on the battlefield than have to explain my survival after the retreat of my men, I expect the same from each of you. Our plan is simple; we will engage all along the front to keep the Freedonians from maneuvering. We will engage in fire combat as our men are far better at shooting that drawing blood with a sword. As units tire they will be relieved with a unit from the second rank. Our Horse will endeavor to turn the flanks of the enemy while the Foot keep the enemy's center busy. We must absorb the blows of the enemy without breaking, fear is a contagious thing and we can't have our troops fleeing without fighting. I will not lie to you, this is a serious challenge but I have no doubts that you are up to the challenge." He raised his glass, "To victory" his officers echoed his shout. <br /></p><p style="text-align: center;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjz2NSU926NKb6awP46FrAjLfJKLIztpQa4cgm7ORR5jYkEooZsjkQgSIQzHDzNv63hxjGpV10jnAmb09TxkzylxaG15t8fD2PqCU-An3J8IPmpSqYAMRf1SadDOy3jOozjrSTMxOvLaNEi/s2048/20201219_171708.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1152" data-original-width="2048" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjz2NSU926NKb6awP46FrAjLfJKLIztpQa4cgm7ORR5jYkEooZsjkQgSIQzHDzNv63hxjGpV10jnAmb09TxkzylxaG15t8fD2PqCU-An3J8IPmpSqYAMRf1SadDOy3jOozjrSTMxOvLaNEi/w400-h225/20201219_171708.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>the battlefield, in this view North is to the right <br /></i></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYmJAMfZXgkTgIySDwYTMhscNN66Gv0HYm2BChcnmozQldgZNzKXZVkQTswisUk6Ag0RRMd8VI2IpME7byrxeqAVJPyta9i4Ak1HqwI9uEnnDUnyalZbJjqEBSM0SXpaOuaJOOHz3nDbpj/s2048/20201219_171714.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1152" data-original-width="2048" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYmJAMfZXgkTgIySDwYTMhscNN66Gv0HYm2BChcnmozQldgZNzKXZVkQTswisUk6Ag0RRMd8VI2IpME7byrxeqAVJPyta9i4Ak1HqwI9uEnnDUnyalZbJjqEBSM0SXpaOuaJOOHz3nDbpj/w400-h225/20201219_171714.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>the left wing of the Ferndalian army </i><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgm5ecL_kdpiFarZCznyycATsmi-nGCYuz-vc6erAOuhnO4s8u6CgVrtLvZmmnzNBtVJUX132p_jlCEI4UfO8i4baUDqgdZO5eJs04HlgnhWc1IOVGBpRcRQUfD40zw2t1ZtU80sau1s6Gs/s2048/20201219_171718.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1152" data-original-width="2048" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgm5ecL_kdpiFarZCznyycATsmi-nGCYuz-vc6erAOuhnO4s8u6CgVrtLvZmmnzNBtVJUX132p_jlCEI4UfO8i4baUDqgdZO5eJs04HlgnhWc1IOVGBpRcRQUfD40zw2t1ZtU80sau1s6Gs/w400-h225/20201219_171718.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>the right wing of the Ferndalian army </i><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjx2NKP5PppcRrk67UCjxOa79SGLt-Gagy8hsvUOqSmUnXTMuujEbGsd1P25z2zN9WMnnYaqLljdg1KdtDUrU_m7TYQKANojCzO4PlCiUtMzFnVJVT97TnzJmecAt-uyiMxDOfaX4bzBqT8/s2048/20201219_171743.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1152" data-original-width="2048" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjx2NKP5PppcRrk67UCjxOa79SGLt-Gagy8hsvUOqSmUnXTMuujEbGsd1P25z2zN9WMnnYaqLljdg1KdtDUrU_m7TYQKANojCzO4PlCiUtMzFnVJVT97TnzJmecAt-uyiMxDOfaX4bzBqT8/w400-h225/20201219_171743.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>the left wing of the Freedonian army </i><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXq_WoMJBEisNrs3D2BSw0676Tbskwjty7QSfx0r2PA4c0cLUdUE3ZbkPal6l3ttf1s_H0MJAcf9kowLmgUsKzTATBZ9hZJX7nUp5Exw239XXUD03CnMNKk3gBh1LOD3sI6M8S_tUgaEU2/s2048/20201219_171752.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1152" data-original-width="2048" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXq_WoMJBEisNrs3D2BSw0676Tbskwjty7QSfx0r2PA4c0cLUdUE3ZbkPal6l3ttf1s_H0MJAcf9kowLmgUsKzTATBZ9hZJX7nUp5Exw239XXUD03CnMNKk3gBh1LOD3sI6M8S_tUgaEU2/w400-h225/20201219_171752.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>the right wing of the Freedonian army </i><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqyOxA9qJv4UcDZS2X73qhJ-Q9lFFNK_TF4S3qOGAaC1D2KYZZAso2npuBGk3sUGnCLwDwiclmI_84dtc5Q5omMpp2vRbVNGSlBQu2ttMMB-2XIVdvO56qf8IgwNm2RkAzdTR1Hn9mbpqV/s2048/Da+Planz.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1152" data-original-width="2048" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqyOxA9qJv4UcDZS2X73qhJ-Q9lFFNK_TF4S3qOGAaC1D2KYZZAso2npuBGk3sUGnCLwDwiclmI_84dtc5Q5omMpp2vRbVNGSlBQu2ttMMB-2XIVdvO56qf8IgwNm2RkAzdTR1Hn9mbpqV/w400-h225/Da+Planz.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>the opposing plans </i><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizVm0gdn56SbUoNeeQZ66XiIW4RNULZHna-Y-zHzXOWz9T05p7HsQ7HWCM4c9QTK5thOTbalO4eiDoRwEsiQem-NoNVDPXYUC8WhLP-NmAI3N65aawf2UpuNI6TVP2rhyphenhyphenpJVXv2exQthsU/s2048/20201219_200116.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1152" data-original-width="2048" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizVm0gdn56SbUoNeeQZ66XiIW4RNULZHna-Y-zHzXOWz9T05p7HsQ7HWCM4c9QTK5thOTbalO4eiDoRwEsiQem-NoNVDPXYUC8WhLP-NmAI3N65aawf2UpuNI6TVP2rhyphenhyphenpJVXv2exQthsU/w400-h225/20201219_200116.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><i>NOTE: in the following pictures North is now to the left</i></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>opening moves, the Freedonians move rapidly to the attack, </i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>they are matched by the Ferndalian left who hadn't counted on such a rapid engagement<br /></i></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWQedtuk-bjN45yfrT3r13m_EZvmetz_y3JzECFo48qQIScelVP3Ffo8mZCO21acAq6An83OHBMxQQ9r7nUISM1CCIgYF-NEK0SlFT95q5OPhbTwq_7lUz77NtVL1w3hX7FvWu08IWE6wl/s2048/20201219_200128.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1152" data-original-width="2048" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWQedtuk-bjN45yfrT3r13m_EZvmetz_y3JzECFo48qQIScelVP3Ffo8mZCO21acAq6An83OHBMxQQ9r7nUISM1CCIgYF-NEK0SlFT95q5OPhbTwq_7lUz77NtVL1w3hX7FvWu08IWE6wl/w400-h225/20201219_200128.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>to the North the independent Companies of Shot scrambled into the ruins of Gruyere's fort</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i> and the opposing Foot moved into range of one another, </i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>far to the North the Ferndalian cavalry moved quickly to begin a flanking move<br /></i></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwbJoPBMCHmzEaW4o0DhkEm6XI5V6moWzg4D0obwID7O-MF89PghpTX0tB-tQWIIBpNrmxvYg5O9dbvVskbWLrIlfO01ilTXo-oXuQPFRzM19ZvTuO7Fe3ku7nQOnu1ulHEHcrbNH19_kg/s2048/20201219_204332.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1152" data-original-width="2048" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwbJoPBMCHmzEaW4o0DhkEm6XI5V6moWzg4D0obwID7O-MF89PghpTX0tB-tQWIIBpNrmxvYg5O9dbvVskbWLrIlfO01ilTXo-oXuQPFRzM19ZvTuO7Fe3ku7nQOnu1ulHEHcrbNH19_kg/w400-h225/20201219_204332.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>the next turn fire became general all along the line, the Shot Companies proved to be frustratingly difficult to shift while the heavy cannon on the Large hill battered the Freedonian Foot<br /></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgV0mNX4LV6XmkMDNAOqahAcX8d1sPUA-UGfbZUcsNKYflwlFXKeCeVvrwj6nvjYBGehSXPlh4ODZB88qInNeYgTJ4tQQHd8S98CYqxSeQ7gEPd2y7xC-C1tJYEL9DhnAvJTaS7eE6BBB37/s2048/20201219_204338.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1152" data-original-width="2048" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgV0mNX4LV6XmkMDNAOqahAcX8d1sPUA-UGfbZUcsNKYflwlFXKeCeVvrwj6nvjYBGehSXPlh4ODZB88qInNeYgTJ4tQQHd8S98CYqxSeQ7gEPd2y7xC-C1tJYEL9DhnAvJTaS7eE6BBB37/w400-h225/20201219_204338.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>to the South the Ferndalians were unable to stem the rapid assault of the 8th and 9th Regiments of the Line, the attached Grenadier companies were especially effective at adding additional impetus to melees; the result being that two Ferndalain units were broken while the 8th Regiment was pushed back on the brink of routing <br /></i></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTKMEGslzxvkpcFBS89_q1BL-8gilgtQ5bVAF7NNhJ8MMqHEmseEYRYhFloW2kDb_YLx736VddajblVewJaVHdoXV1Wc7lxPvhEhG8ykzon_3aodpXngonq4YhJcQZucPx80J8SWDtIm12/s2048/20201219_204346.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1152" data-original-width="2048" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTKMEGslzxvkpcFBS89_q1BL-8gilgtQ5bVAF7NNhJ8MMqHEmseEYRYhFloW2kDb_YLx736VddajblVewJaVHdoXV1Wc7lxPvhEhG8ykzon_3aodpXngonq4YhJcQZucPx80J8SWDtIm12/w400-h225/20201219_204346.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>despite being outnumbered the Ferndalian Mounted Arquebusiers advanced boldly against the Freedonian Horse, nearly turning the southern flank of the Freedonian line<br /></i></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfEe_FgEf59gWoamTcwyNCUK1JeQYaOOnJhSVy5_fW5Cl4x9FVPved_QloRpATV8h1mIkzsFxgdtplqDrVKl5_yWZDbz7coXxhNQr4c_k-Y2hkupvAVKpBpH4-gHnib8Z9VqCoZ_ou0TBk/s2048/20201219_211818.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1152" data-original-width="2048" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfEe_FgEf59gWoamTcwyNCUK1JeQYaOOnJhSVy5_fW5Cl4x9FVPved_QloRpATV8h1mIkzsFxgdtplqDrVKl5_yWZDbz7coXxhNQr4c_k-Y2hkupvAVKpBpH4-gHnib8Z9VqCoZ_ou0TBk/w400-h225/20201219_211818.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>to the North the Ferndalian plan was working; the 6th and 7th Line were slowly losing the firefight against superior numbers while the enemy Mounted Arquebusiers began to turn their flank, wear markers were reaching dangerous levels among the Freedonian Foot<br /></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhctUwO90zUyWxEk8S44imBvo18i-wc-WRa_l0M0iIWdRR2iuCBEb9MYCcJeDR0eAiqd94idfwKUZUzwhVd_ivs1s6guXxlW5WAD0r3Mi8jREVaoavaNISSD_PldRxotuCn5oshcvIhaoTi/s2048/20201219_211826.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1152" data-original-width="2048" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhctUwO90zUyWxEk8S44imBvo18i-wc-WRa_l0M0iIWdRR2iuCBEb9MYCcJeDR0eAiqd94idfwKUZUzwhVd_ivs1s6guXxlW5WAD0r3Mi8jREVaoavaNISSD_PldRxotuCn5oshcvIhaoTi/w400-h225/20201219_211826.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i> in the next turn, the breakthrough came to pass, the Freedonian Foot managed to dispatch the last of the Ferndalian infantry in the center of the battlefield just as the Horse managed to drive back the Ferndalian Mounted Arquebusiers, the center of the field belonged to the Freedonians<br /></i></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1SQYIKVuYiXQ-1I8g3tSum-ee-c78t0t-GLMQFQDMuY_Gh9byhjrGhetu2x91PjXXInLJmU8O6feU604RddmQDhQn3LHZqY2MhmDFe1HIGcfsQIEU0vCoL4N0ohPacqTlKPdmhV49QjnL/s2048/20201219_211833.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1152" data-original-width="2048" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1SQYIKVuYiXQ-1I8g3tSum-ee-c78t0t-GLMQFQDMuY_Gh9byhjrGhetu2x91PjXXInLJmU8O6feU604RddmQDhQn3LHZqY2MhmDFe1HIGcfsQIEU0vCoL4N0ohPacqTlKPdmhV49QjnL/w400-h225/20201219_211833.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>despite continued success on their flank the northern half of the Ferndalian army was now at risk of being pinned against the sea <br /></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i> </i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNZSE6kb5KG2uJ-J9tugezm5p35b9RuPUg7XNmpIdAvidazLhUiSuLglhEU7DtV7ABxloeDR7oWvephBtS0_lQl8wFdvYg0e6YtVUgFOh0bLcWaP1irDGL-8nl8qZdNeygMRlu-c1kSagD/s2048/20201219_214144.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1152" data-original-width="2048" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNZSE6kb5KG2uJ-J9tugezm5p35b9RuPUg7XNmpIdAvidazLhUiSuLglhEU7DtV7ABxloeDR7oWvephBtS0_lQl8wFdvYg0e6YtVUgFOh0bLcWaP1irDGL-8nl8qZdNeygMRlu-c1kSagD/w400-h225/20201219_214144.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>the center of the Freedonian army began to rapidly</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i> move to surround the remaining Ferndalian forces <br /></i></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjagirq1NW4_DSRwN8wOdvtmIynp_x-DKeHX_opHF8e4PeHX3kHuv21q7XcS4E-BEjQESTsTeieQE6T644IHvbqjm0lb5q4hFyZxN3AKLeuvI-elMFNI6PIWht62s6NeXAlyf47bQOVWip4/s2048/20201219_214151.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1152" data-original-width="2048" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjagirq1NW4_DSRwN8wOdvtmIynp_x-DKeHX_opHF8e4PeHX3kHuv21q7XcS4E-BEjQESTsTeieQE6T644IHvbqjm0lb5q4hFyZxN3AKLeuvI-elMFNI6PIWht62s6NeXAlyf47bQOVWip4/w400-h225/20201219_214151.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>recognizing their danger the Ferndalians battered </i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>the nearest Freedonian Foot unit with fire<br /></i></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiflphIVLc4NQS2feK4pGK3j6G2fwR5JTZirvM8I_9oQa4be0aBXWFidjiXc6lKuVbbs-HAh1dTe6TMv6saobgOOwasbJ5A2FQCyCPIjLzbAzqQoStpHJjgWw-BobhoWpGtde2R1bfK8zV7/s2048/20201219_214156.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1152" data-original-width="2048" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiflphIVLc4NQS2feK4pGK3j6G2fwR5JTZirvM8I_9oQa4be0aBXWFidjiXc6lKuVbbs-HAh1dTe6TMv6saobgOOwasbJ5A2FQCyCPIjLzbAzqQoStpHJjgWw-BobhoWpGtde2R1bfK8zV7/w400-h225/20201219_214156.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>on the southern front the Mounted Arquebusiers gave </i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>good account of themselves as they covered the retreat of the Foot <br /></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiL0wZRvRKNe6fOml4E4wtSyCKGczqGivjiDJXSk04IovKgBmKWhxD1l9ulTZgIuNK_feTuGa-0WmogSlgDSM8gc6fFGo-AOEwPBCjhofCdOlgvX84K1l49OPXbB36smuGrt1JGsqxFX6EW/s2048/20201219_215902.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1152" data-original-width="2048" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiL0wZRvRKNe6fOml4E4wtSyCKGczqGivjiDJXSk04IovKgBmKWhxD1l9ulTZgIuNK_feTuGa-0WmogSlgDSM8gc6fFGo-AOEwPBCjhofCdOlgvX84K1l49OPXbB36smuGrt1JGsqxFX6EW/w400-h225/20201219_215902.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>having pounded the 6th and 7th regiments the Ferndalians then </i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>moved rapidly to disengage before the 8th and 9th could join the fray <br /></i></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmhr2qJXtoajoL4a_r_GMGJ7QTVeJPKHA0AFiOGeg8I_660ZqFYBCxcqJ7FJ_2o9nqNTTCCI4T0e_5vA6llfe40X2njpf8_FpIEXJn9rSUT9bU9c5xbmRWqKa7_t5s0ZBA6wUaF7LKgwY6/s2048/20201219_215907.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1152" data-original-width="2048" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmhr2qJXtoajoL4a_r_GMGJ7QTVeJPKHA0AFiOGeg8I_660ZqFYBCxcqJ7FJ_2o9nqNTTCCI4T0e_5vA6llfe40X2njpf8_FpIEXJn9rSUT9bU9c5xbmRWqKa7_t5s0ZBA6wUaF7LKgwY6/w400-h225/20201219_215907.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>fire continued all along the line with the Freedonians having the worst of it,</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i> the 6th, 7th and 8th Foot were all approaching the breaking point <br /></i></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6NP64T9UYRccqbjenOyROGvi1bGuQ1IP8Whc2o-OvntihVyg9HiNtVJYQad1sZjJWCNXY9-XEJj86pZtDsydWdTUHntkRQ7pP2cf2wuhT898qxX7UlzZyQsFL91NKpOOLeOkgailoBOrw/s2048/20201219_215915.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1152" data-original-width="2048" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6NP64T9UYRccqbjenOyROGvi1bGuQ1IP8Whc2o-OvntihVyg9HiNtVJYQad1sZjJWCNXY9-XEJj86pZtDsydWdTUHntkRQ7pP2cf2wuhT898qxX7UlzZyQsFL91NKpOOLeOkgailoBOrw/w400-h225/20201219_215915.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>but the relentless advance of the Freedonian right could not be stopped </i><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWY4pksAEoMx1jwOXd50g4QKC3Hq908nqgq_MjhJSe4pHtp_KfvW1xV5HjXxgzPMu0Hq6bIXYFdG5e_uWwJ3EGPVKcwtliVwDvasuPKhE_Khgb8Rt4HybUnpx4-cJUOHSM0oMB2-eA9PLC/s2048/20201219_220451.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1152" data-original-width="2048" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWY4pksAEoMx1jwOXd50g4QKC3Hq908nqgq_MjhJSe4pHtp_KfvW1xV5HjXxgzPMu0Hq6bIXYFdG5e_uWwJ3EGPVKcwtliVwDvasuPKhE_Khgb8Rt4HybUnpx4-cJUOHSM0oMB2-eA9PLC/w400-h225/20201219_220451.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>in the next turn the Ferndalians deftly retired </i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>as the Freedonians spent the turn rallying their Foot <br /></i></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUpITu3us0eUxWsIbBuA725Wv2Q3BR5Hn9IWVRogLoRVpvKVQzYIDgfhfFUKKEyx1GRXzgEtXHULwkt7bLbL-J1LwFEasfwjgUqZzEr5ULkQdnuIQHEOyIxgo_hKZmgJfV7TsRtb093mT9/s2048/20201219_220456.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1152" data-original-width="2048" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUpITu3us0eUxWsIbBuA725Wv2Q3BR5Hn9IWVRogLoRVpvKVQzYIDgfhfFUKKEyx1GRXzgEtXHULwkt7bLbL-J1LwFEasfwjgUqZzEr5ULkQdnuIQHEOyIxgo_hKZmgJfV7TsRtb093mT9/w400-h225/20201219_220456.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>in the center a company of Grenadiers moved to capture the guns but a selfless charge by </i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>the Mounted Arquebusiers distracted them long enough for the guns to limber and retire<br /></i></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5ix52MB1nZvbCigpZfocxdfvgtAMH_gwmM-K9kqZ8SWgRHYsvev4tnjU2YVQYYpU28qyrMVVFPMuCASNWSaMa44QS-QlWD7cfukkJ-maX-SO2Eo9LVs4JYu1Fy9e_bLETv87R7uU4aXYh/s2048/20201219_220501.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1152" data-original-width="2048" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5ix52MB1nZvbCigpZfocxdfvgtAMH_gwmM-K9kqZ8SWgRHYsvev4tnjU2YVQYYpU28qyrMVVFPMuCASNWSaMa44QS-QlWD7cfukkJ-maX-SO2Eo9LVs4JYu1Fy9e_bLETv87R7uU4aXYh/w400-h225/20201219_220501.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>the end of the battle saw the shattered Ferndalian army in full retreat, but not routed, </i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>the battered but successful Freedonian army following at a respectful distance </i><br /></div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> The orderlies carried the wounded Duke Ivan to the rear. Shot through the thigh and cut about the head and shoulders the old man grimaced in pain but uttered no words of complaint, "How fare the men?" he asked in a weal voice as they loaded him into the wagon. Assured that the troops were retiring in good order (which was a deliberate but outrageous lie) he sighed and gave orders to pass the command to the highest ranking of his surviving generals before passing out.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> The Comte du Fromage held a meeting of his officers, a decidedly smaller cast than had attended the meeting just the day before, "Well done my good fellows, well done indeed! The field is littered with the bodies of our enemies and we have sent four thousand home on parole with nothing but their small clothes on their backs. Our troops well stood the fire of battle and the enemy will think twice before approaching us again." He raised his glass "Huzzah! Three cheers to Victory, three cheers to the King and three cheers to our bold and loyal soldiers!"</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> The next morning a galloping rider approached the Ferndalian camp under a white flag bearing a package for Duke Ivan. It bore a note with the inscription;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> Dear Duke Ivan, </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> It pains me to say that I have only just heard that you were wounded. I pray for your rapid recovery and the regaining of your full health. Please find these humble gifts a symbol of my esteem and best wishes. Your well being will constantly be on my mind until I hear of your recovery.<br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> Most Sincerely, Your Humble Servant and brother-in-law, </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> Etienne Sebastien Cervalles,</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> Comte du Fromage </div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div>Anton Ryzbakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07844552779982758219noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3523735026214294681.post-27829297596975658482020-11-29T19:49:00.000-08:002020-11-29T19:49:36.338-08:00I Won't Back Down; a battle outside the walls of Gruyere<p> The Comte du Fromage sighed and looked up from his charts and maps, "What is it now?" he asked in an exasperated tone as he addressed the courier. The cavalryman bowed low and presented a sealed envelope to the Comte, "I would never have interrupted you but my General said this was most urgent". The Marshall took the message, broke the seal and glanced at the the text of the communique. "My good man you must see my cook for a quick meal, I want to see you back here within the hour". The courier bowed and withdrew. </p><p> The Count returned to his charts and maps, furiously concentrating on the dispositions of his troops and the map reflecting the progress of the mine below the walls of Gruyere. Unhappily satisfied that his worst suspicions were confirmed he sat down for a moment to gather his wits. After a couple of glasses of claret he called for his secretary, "It seems that our Frozonian friends have left us in the lurch, the Ferndalians are marching against us as we speak. We will have to cancel the assault and move troops to block the advance of the Ferndalains. Damn it! I should have insisted that we bring heavier guns! A battery of 18 pounders and these walls would have been dust weeks ago, instead we are forced to tunnel like rats beneath the ground. We will leave troops to cover the minehead but we will have to abandon the rest of the works. Two Squadrons and the Grenadier companies will stay; I will take the rest of our force and stop the Ferndalians. Leave word for the engineers to fire the mine as soon as is possible, we may need to have the fortress slighted if Fate treats us poorly".</p><p> Duke Ivan "The Bitter" drove his men hard trying to cover ground before the Freedonian invaders could react. "March, my sons! The faster we move the less we will bleed!" He marched next to his green troops setting an example with his relentless energy, dismounting and trudging along the muddy roads with his men. None dared to shirk their duty when a sixty year old Duke was marching next to them despite the soul-crushing pace. The miles from Cheddar were covered in just ten days at the cost of hundreds of stragglers but the Duke knew that time was more important than manpower. He needed to force a battle on the Freedonian invaders before Gruyere fell and provided them a base with access to the sea. The frantic messages from the city as they had followed the progress of the mine beneath their walls gave urgency to the Duke's normally impatient temperament; he drove his men not out of a sense of cruelty but out of cruel necessity, time was not their ally. <br /></p><p style="text-align: center;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDFBYntVMSqyDyFnTMNW_xdxHgSO_9qOcTbmLsEc2ALK6E2Uy098nEb7mNiKhC-xbekkLO4o1BUSi4kNExQEkrEN3unf2rwzEvlBAhw4GCHwvKJS15G_i8PVa7ZpvoOpElmtSgJ8TR5Syk/s1600/Untitled.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> </a><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDFBYntVMSqyDyFnTMNW_xdxHgSO_9qOcTbmLsEc2ALK6E2Uy098nEb7mNiKhC-xbekkLO4o1BUSi4kNExQEkrEN3unf2rwzEvlBAhw4GCHwvKJS15G_i8PVa7ZpvoOpElmtSgJ8TR5Syk/s1600/Untitled.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3kQpBpBExdLoF-OlSFtjw9P7Jz1vODFGZ0agfEitOJWnF-ykcdNvPXZQ9Fxi-PXeZjn14UL2g8TJKwrJ7JrPq49jrfyJQDXC69qPNKIz_w-cDRataqxmAXntOEdswGbA_bR6J2yE56wQ8/s1600/Untitled.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="295" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3kQpBpBExdLoF-OlSFtjw9P7Jz1vODFGZ0agfEitOJWnF-ykcdNvPXZQ9Fxi-PXeZjn14UL2g8TJKwrJ7JrPq49jrfyJQDXC69qPNKIz_w-cDRataqxmAXntOEdswGbA_bR6J2yE56wQ8/w525-h295/Untitled.jpg" width="525" /></a></div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span><a name='more'></a></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqI1ENARNz8yFuc3j_FERdmHRPgW9LWYlXU6LHAXUdSlry-msblR9A7mdwirtqhNs0hngQySdgfNPI_WnYrNj6jJGIGTyCveiwU2YS9ZLpk3yzertCfzmWSttirMsD6J1_vkYOW1GQEXBH/s2048/20201107_191249.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqI1ENARNz8yFuc3j_FERdmHRPgW9LWYlXU6LHAXUdSlry-msblR9A7mdwirtqhNs0hngQySdgfNPI_WnYrNj6jJGIGTyCveiwU2YS9ZLpk3yzertCfzmWSttirMsD6J1_vkYOW1GQEXBH/w400-h300/20201107_191249.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>the Ferndalian army; left to right; </i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>three regiments of Mounted Arquebusiers, four Modern Squadrons (raw)</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i> and three further regiments of Mounted Arquebusiers</i><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCF5WccLNq0RJ3-4L5t_T9Y1mIawwg8NZGOMEZkx2A6yns1jeVtJraLZ2lXPGKgYYP4C5qYqEkGL8wkv_XBTv5ZCDVY0KyJEL6yr8Tw6SDToEbWfQc4HhaTCr-2vomHzDzX0hmlOUEyNnb/s2048/20201107_191340.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCF5WccLNq0RJ3-4L5t_T9Y1mIawwg8NZGOMEZkx2A6yns1jeVtJraLZ2lXPGKgYYP4C5qYqEkGL8wkv_XBTv5ZCDVY0KyJEL6yr8Tw6SDToEbWfQc4HhaTCr-2vomHzDzX0hmlOUEyNnb/w400-h300/20201107_191340.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>the Freedonian force; four Shot Companies,</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i> the 8th and 9th regiments de Linge (reformed battalions, flintlocks) </i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>the Fifth through Eight Regiments of Mounted Arqebusiers</i> <br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1OAyG-MGvoPwb-QCOFkis71MacLS8QGGTYVYQA22hc4viEI2QT-DWq2E9-nCP9bXNiX3f5s6d_NXhGBLvStiYaIdnsDMiLtoxIq9QrGpt72XxKHUbV-vDn_KbrCTEsJVawimSv4-U_eZE/s2048/20201107_193144.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1OAyG-MGvoPwb-QCOFkis71MacLS8QGGTYVYQA22hc4viEI2QT-DWq2E9-nCP9bXNiX3f5s6d_NXhGBLvStiYaIdnsDMiLtoxIq9QrGpt72XxKHUbV-vDn_KbrCTEsJVawimSv4-U_eZE/w480-h640/20201107_193144.jpg" width="480" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>the Ferndalians were still deploying from road march as they approached the Freedonian position, their foot were in a solid mass in the center while cavalry moved out on both flanks</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>The Freedonians placed the solid rock of their Regiments de Linge on the hill in the center with the Shot Companies spread to the left and the cavalry to the left. </i><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5hCIdQUSU6OBju0oeey4f4Sd-BYLv-_Mpwd0miS8hEiu1stm9BfqkpxhXD2K9wewqgBsEfPBKCiDe_KHo4ujcpyP4eNERCF2IDp0TgYlMf_XZd2G-l49qWoFM6Z9dPh9vFCqsG3rY7a3W/s2048/20201107_194420.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5hCIdQUSU6OBju0oeey4f4Sd-BYLv-_Mpwd0miS8hEiu1stm9BfqkpxhXD2K9wewqgBsEfPBKCiDe_KHo4ujcpyP4eNERCF2IDp0TgYlMf_XZd2G-l49qWoFM6Z9dPh9vFCqsG3rY7a3W/w480-h640/20201107_194420.jpg" width="480" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>The Ferndalian troops continued to spread out their formation as they marched forward sending a brigade of cavalry far to the west as if to march around the large woods, </i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>the Freedonian Shot Companies advanced to begin the skirmish fight <br /></i></div><i><br /></i><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi307WqMTqA4HiqB5dY6vy4WKtFwpQiq3AkhaXBM3T2tRigL-cHO_rq9A3fa2mdyuJwlVj80xwOXomgjk0S_wqkvGPbymLfl82P_l6oD1qV23GPh_WDfDUP11gMFaVBKGZN_ki_cgDnHB3X/s2048/20201107_200654.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi307WqMTqA4HiqB5dY6vy4WKtFwpQiq3AkhaXBM3T2tRigL-cHO_rq9A3fa2mdyuJwlVj80xwOXomgjk0S_wqkvGPbymLfl82P_l6oD1qV23GPh_WDfDUP11gMFaVBKGZN_ki_cgDnHB3X/w480-h640/20201107_200654.jpg" width="480" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <i> on the next turn the troops exchanged fire all along the line </i> <br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFGkcmz9QPV6PoxMTdO_7N8dY6iGiSvjdQqiP0j8Pq2W6Sbm-InzRSQYYcn5V9pE4ns3As2SOcahOL6e3rA1C7V9Q-zexyFN7yhs_JCGr-JCgicajPR7vuwwzqbOAMAqCctE7yghNRnGUx/s2048/20201107_203408.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFGkcmz9QPV6PoxMTdO_7N8dY6iGiSvjdQqiP0j8Pq2W6Sbm-InzRSQYYcn5V9pE4ns3As2SOcahOL6e3rA1C7V9Q-zexyFN7yhs_JCGr-JCgicajPR7vuwwzqbOAMAqCctE7yghNRnGUx/w480-h640/20201107_203408.jpg" width="480" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>in the following turn the exchange of fire went in favor of the Freedonians,</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i> particularly on the flanks </i><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipHWEfVip_EEoVzva8O3_o11bvvSmxSAoQijlCi3U5xxmPyV5IbPnkGTkz3PPHOV7-e_Py_t2l6VpyobUI-2yzRkQrKmebfF30J9w6Ha5jiPrUrRlpjRGMNx3HkHfImrjweEct7TYg3j3S/s2048/20201107_205826.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipHWEfVip_EEoVzva8O3_o11bvvSmxSAoQijlCi3U5xxmPyV5IbPnkGTkz3PPHOV7-e_Py_t2l6VpyobUI-2yzRkQrKmebfF30J9w6Ha5jiPrUrRlpjRGMNx3HkHfImrjweEct7TYg3j3S/w480-h640/20201107_205826.jpg" width="480" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>the sheer weight of numbers began to tell against the Freedonians in subsequent turns <br /></i></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBwefLLEVxWNAdn4zQqWOw4XqTGCNgRjt7l5muASSKD3AIUQAO-Cw8P3BXXpkQh3I_6S6lmLKnCJuwHXUEJjTlDoc8Tsil6uxTgblZkIOtHKrOTV91H42YifVjVn5AxAY7iM1FyCtGDaHt/s2048/20201107_211731.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBwefLLEVxWNAdn4zQqWOw4XqTGCNgRjt7l5muASSKD3AIUQAO-Cw8P3BXXpkQh3I_6S6lmLKnCJuwHXUEJjTlDoc8Tsil6uxTgblZkIOtHKrOTV91H42YifVjVn5AxAY7iM1FyCtGDaHt/w480-h640/20201107_211731.jpg" width="480" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>but the battle-hardened regiments de Linge were able to drive off a battalion of raw Ferndalians as the Shot Companies boldly hung in the fight to distract the more numerous Ferndalian Horse</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgT4ITke3nRcaalz_q8z-O6Me6bDSPNr40TpmvW2PMrwqU6OOt6gO0GEPzv41l3khm3R1DVZKRr6dlPmgqAinv3B_EyUB3VZKoj4_CHpf_fvsQlCH4eg3jiuSc8dx1A1W2WuBfFB62Bcm5U/s2048/20201107_212159.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgT4ITke3nRcaalz_q8z-O6Me6bDSPNr40TpmvW2PMrwqU6OOt6gO0GEPzv41l3khm3R1DVZKRr6dlPmgqAinv3B_EyUB3VZKoj4_CHpf_fvsQlCH4eg3jiuSc8dx1A1W2WuBfFB62Bcm5U/w480-h640/20201107_212159.jpg" width="480" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>but the Ferndalians were not to be deterred, another regiment threw themselves fearlessly at the veteran Freedonian troops; they were defeated but the Freedonians were growing weary <br /></i></div><i><br /></i><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIoxSpQWbJLgAyACSwjh44qM52hyphenhyphenwFcATzVPhp3BaXKlbIbinn-Awl0pG5gnJ4iGLfypiaMvMi5mIERVdW1A_T8A3Ar9FL1L3mGGnGmzqjFf9tFbzjXvP26N6g1ltPCbfTry1ESGUEwHe9/s2048/20201107_213529.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIoxSpQWbJLgAyACSwjh44qM52hyphenhyphenwFcATzVPhp3BaXKlbIbinn-Awl0pG5gnJ4iGLfypiaMvMi5mIERVdW1A_T8A3Ar9FL1L3mGGnGmzqjFf9tFbzjXvP26N6g1ltPCbfTry1ESGUEwHe9/w480-h640/20201107_213529.jpg" width="480" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>the Comte du Fromage surveyed the field and decided that he would be better off retiring behind his still numerous cavalry rather than risk losing critical troops in a gamble for victory <br /></i></div><i><br /></i><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0qPphkUDWv18LTpfPNsbmsEcGU2czWuUIbVEslW1lD79UfVHIsKwCu8TJDMmTdbwLb7Cy8lk67Zqnj0kLua5hU3NutLKWZaNxFD9-2FBtJwYL7SEnk_6uywyT-CvHcvGdP8NrqUBoIhiR/s2048/20201107_215620.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0qPphkUDWv18LTpfPNsbmsEcGU2czWuUIbVEslW1lD79UfVHIsKwCu8TJDMmTdbwLb7Cy8lk67Zqnj0kLua5hU3NutLKWZaNxFD9-2FBtJwYL7SEnk_6uywyT-CvHcvGdP8NrqUBoIhiR/w480-h640/20201107_215620.jpg" width="480" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>Duke Ivan the Bitter pressed the issue as best he could but the Freedonian superiority in cavalry covered the retreat of their foot in relative safety</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i> </i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><i> </i>The Comte du Fromage shepherded his troops back toward the rest of his army, they marched with their heads held high, they had fought well and knew that the Marshall had only ordered the retreat to preserve their lives and military options. As they marched the word spread that the mines beneath the city walls had been fired and vast stretches of the city stood defenseless<i>. </i> Even a lowly corporal knew that this put the Ferndalians in a bad situation<i>, </i>the city that they had come to rescue was now without walls and the enemy army still stood ready a short distance away.<i> </i>The Comte passed orders forward to the troops still before the city that they should retire to the south a short distance and await the arrival of his portion of the army.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /><i></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> As the Freedonians moved to the south Ivan the Bitter rode swiftly toward Gruyere, his heart fell as he crested a hill to see the walls laying in ruins. Now he would have to rally his young soldiers and defeat the Freedonians in the field, they could not hope to hold the city without fortifications. At least he would have a few days to rally his stragglers and resupply.<br /><i></i></div><i></i></div></div></div><p></p>Anton Ryzbakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07844552779982758219noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3523735026214294681.post-20686731047362637132020-11-05T20:38:00.000-08:002020-11-05T20:38:30.168-08:00I Fought The Law....and The Law Won! A jailbreak on Pinatella goes badly awry <p style="text-align: left;"> This battle is a follow-on to <a href="https://epicureanwars.blogspot.com/2020/06/gimmie-sheltera-naval-scenario.html">The Relief of Pinatella</a> which found the frigate Dijon having gone mercenary to be fighting against it old fleet-mates. The Dijon was sunk and such of the crew as were rescued were put on trial for being turn-coats. This game was fought using Pikemans Lament rules, the island was stylized to fit onto my tabletop.<br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDL26bcGVg8XHFJuCmL18uJrGtbBq-EXx8p4cv0UAIDUJfOCzQmDVdNrej-IyCDcZCiWPX-1UdoGYGVGgjJ8S56v9jKGe3FlBzRxCD_4kYqdNH359owWUYUjzvWSJlx4P4tu8CW3xo4PEI/s2048/20200602_141046.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDL26bcGVg8XHFJuCmL18uJrGtbBq-EXx8p4cv0UAIDUJfOCzQmDVdNrej-IyCDcZCiWPX-1UdoGYGVGgjJ8S56v9jKGe3FlBzRxCD_4kYqdNH359owWUYUjzvWSJlx4P4tu8CW3xo4PEI/w400-h300/20200602_141046.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>the actual island of Pinatella</i></div><p></p><p style="text-align: left;"> The stink of unwashed bodies and fear filled the room; oblivious to it all Rene Chartrand leaned against the wall and looked at his former First Mate Alaine Clermont, "Well, we will all hang soon enough". </p><p style="text-align: left;"> Clermont laughed grimly, "At the time seemed like a good idea to switch sides, in retrospect perhaps becoming prisoners of war would have been better. Shall I tell the boys that we are going to have to take action tonight?". He carefully dusted off his britches as he stood up to look out the tiny window of the cell.</p><p style="text-align: left;"> Chartrand stepped next to Clermont to peer down into the bay. He could see the King's Commissioner's boat leaving the harbor as the supply ship waited to enter. "I would say that tonight is our only chance, it is good to see that the supply boat is punctual, that is our ticket for of getting out of here. The watch changes at the fort at dusk, we will make our move then. With some luck we can get most of the way around the bay before the garrison discovers what we are up to"<span></span></p><a name='more'></a><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWJAy1fUsLonceLfWwQOLILLwE1OQ9x1brpzZbx4KjkEPHK5Fz2bpwYy1RXAIo74M1SLKjJGfWavSIFTzYJKOXs8vXRUtK7Po2BKVR-RaoDRbbdMnGqE37lF97UWKRgeWRfmAzux3osJhR/s2048/20201015_195008.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWJAy1fUsLonceLfWwQOLILLwE1OQ9x1brpzZbx4KjkEPHK5Fz2bpwYy1RXAIo74M1SLKjJGfWavSIFTzYJKOXs8vXRUtK7Po2BKVR-RaoDRbbdMnGqE37lF97UWKRgeWRfmAzux3osJhR/w480-h640/20201015_195008.jpg" width="480" /> </a></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>having overpowered the sleepy guards the crew breaks out </i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>and speeds around the perimeter to as quietly as possible<br /></i></div><i><br /></i><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiw3KQskv63nFsBMtTI_RAf7YT_iGYYiR9bFpHsxRIZV2odzeDmCAWVr0gohjGRGvFfBnYRKGeTUtIampgY0JRvdv1dIQ4IAol3mxxnqYF-u8P5SvpVOKa3WIzGxgDd3Sq6OcDd8wyw3qd1/s2048/20201015_195013.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiw3KQskv63nFsBMtTI_RAf7YT_iGYYiR9bFpHsxRIZV2odzeDmCAWVr0gohjGRGvFfBnYRKGeTUtIampgY0JRvdv1dIQ4IAol3mxxnqYF-u8P5SvpVOKa3WIzGxgDd3Sq6OcDd8wyw3qd1/w400-h300/20201015_195013.jpg" width="400" /> </a></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>but an eagle-eyed look-out at the fort spots them before they get a third of the way to the dock <br /></i></div><i><br /></i><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6ErYBqdc4mxaqHTN7xbFVT4YpEmBbqDQDn5_PbfinbZerclFEF4JHPaO7nrY57jaRGvQXSL11sLTwjW0Qx-T7dtyjpsQGBL2r_kxeb_m2bzhMFO3CdbKgudTOzthYXadVOk_VmElfgwMi/s2048/20201015_195952.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6ErYBqdc4mxaqHTN7xbFVT4YpEmBbqDQDn5_PbfinbZerclFEF4JHPaO7nrY57jaRGvQXSL11sLTwjW0Qx-T7dtyjpsQGBL2r_kxeb_m2bzhMFO3CdbKgudTOzthYXadVOk_VmElfgwMi/w400-h300/20201015_195952.jpg" width="400" /> </a></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>with the garrison reacting I choked on several Move Orders and a full half of the seamen stood still <br /></i></div><i><br /></i><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfT0mwaoyndOGcYcJKQM8T9FBpUI0Lhgu5mWN5hX-ZRAU6jfMQlpBMROvms7DCs4fLILkJ2n9zfxSpqSacABWNYwdN9sBSVmXX9hvkEYvUhrInV3L8j_kY2_K5okTD5ShilzuGXoyjaGmR/s2048/20201015_200001.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfT0mwaoyndOGcYcJKQM8T9FBpUI0Lhgu5mWN5hX-ZRAU6jfMQlpBMROvms7DCs4fLILkJ2n9zfxSpqSacABWNYwdN9sBSVmXX9hvkEYvUhrInV3L8j_kY2_K5okTD5ShilzuGXoyjaGmR/w400-h300/20201015_200001.jpg" width="400" /> </a></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>Trunkmonkey had no such problems and his troops reacted smoothly <br /></i></div><i><br /></i><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqfU7RVPEPDLj8UD8c7nGQ5QhXb2OmFFws-0GWNFN5KbtShFTpR-YUP5NLMyENMvXyVMJEPEH2yx4o_YcRxDaZ8ffxCIRA_g7jur4Bfq7TUM1TJohWPC9MJzTTFic6rOCdN6zXkHdFSx-m/s2048/20201015_200007.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqfU7RVPEPDLj8UD8c7nGQ5QhXb2OmFFws-0GWNFN5KbtShFTpR-YUP5NLMyENMvXyVMJEPEH2yx4o_YcRxDaZ8ffxCIRA_g7jur4Bfq7TUM1TJohWPC9MJzTTFic6rOCdN6zXkHdFSx-m/w400-h300/20201015_200007.jpg" width="400" /> </a></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>even the garrison sent men out to contain the jailbreak <br /></i></div><i><br /></i><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6KZyDHVDhmsvb716Mdn-_ng67onaXc1ZjFzFE9Um-y-wkLgu1Q5yludzOX14M8Yci3MPsgGmmjQbYlpJz9fEDztRRfeQ2lKaA_TmCYmAsyEh17Ajbtq3mo5qsuS7R6BlUJ4jzVlL5NXmM/s2048/20201015_200304.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6KZyDHVDhmsvb716Mdn-_ng67onaXc1ZjFzFE9Um-y-wkLgu1Q5yludzOX14M8Yci3MPsgGmmjQbYlpJz9fEDztRRfeQ2lKaA_TmCYmAsyEh17Ajbtq3mo5qsuS7R6BlUJ4jzVlL5NXmM/w400-h300/20201015_200304.jpg" width="400" /> </a></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>I failed on my Move Orders with all of the troops at the head of the column</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i> forcing the rearmost units to try to move forward past their immobile fringes <br /></i></div><i><br /></i><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjZn4MAFa2QCoH6Lq35XQed-Gg1GPMYr1lwHREYdt3c6dO4vdMB5_WUQ9l_DIigE3tU2gl_sb-OBXdl9dF7MPe72b7Vx7RicOw14ZBOYK2lKdyetw2zxVaGVMMmm2TbxmLnbREPdx7OX-g/s2048/20201015_200307.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjZn4MAFa2QCoH6Lq35XQed-Gg1GPMYr1lwHREYdt3c6dO4vdMB5_WUQ9l_DIigE3tU2gl_sb-OBXdl9dF7MPe72b7Vx7RicOw14ZBOYK2lKdyetw2zxVaGVMMmm2TbxmLnbREPdx7OX-g/w300-h400/20201015_200307.jpg" width="300" /> </a></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>the garrison was moving faster than my desperate escapees <br /></i></div><i><br /></i><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ6PL7sUpnqasaOFsW32-ZPjBGXxxMxhPYJDh-5HzilaOQDC9Dh9Y0Bv5WR72h2oA2zdzMdr8roUax0ywvHKxt87IkYW69R2XkO6CTbuhvKv6Tt2zBNYG0iSnXM6I1I-Se0lBD72acktwc/s2048/20201015_200310.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ6PL7sUpnqasaOFsW32-ZPjBGXxxMxhPYJDh-5HzilaOQDC9Dh9Y0Bv5WR72h2oA2zdzMdr8roUax0ywvHKxt87IkYW69R2XkO6CTbuhvKv6Tt2zBNYG0iSnXM6I1I-Se0lBD72acktwc/w400-h300/20201015_200310.jpg" width="400" /> </a></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i> the troops from the fortress moved to block the access to the dock<br /></i></div><i><br /></i><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgx7sCbaVqTT17bEsuMHc1-S04DXEJguWnGmeLweG6CxOa_QqXgPY2n60LyPHNJJKnvon5e2bigol0rMNaFAqEDxqMDo9iAVzagHV3aIXqy9qomQOKe9Mm3noQZsrnci124lVbzDzuOHF8a/s2048/20201015_200810.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgx7sCbaVqTT17bEsuMHc1-S04DXEJguWnGmeLweG6CxOa_QqXgPY2n60LyPHNJJKnvon5e2bigol0rMNaFAqEDxqMDo9iAVzagHV3aIXqy9qomQOKe9Mm3noQZsrnci124lVbzDzuOHF8a/w400-h300/20201015_200810.jpg" width="400" /> </a></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>as the sailors rounded the corner the soldiers opened fire ....<br /></i></div><i><br /></i><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoW-OuvU4dgjvn9hQW-GDraGLoNTFmOiCrkT1suzgsQNFB1E_vftU1uT3cTmzMOZIcavGecHlkJsDbpCS1Ig2wdFae9XImYQjqVr5Q2tMe_ElqiUneZtrbvTuTG5YG0GRXq5JHRU_RoWt5/s2048/20201015_200814.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoW-OuvU4dgjvn9hQW-GDraGLoNTFmOiCrkT1suzgsQNFB1E_vftU1uT3cTmzMOZIcavGecHlkJsDbpCS1Ig2wdFae9XImYQjqVr5Q2tMe_ElqiUneZtrbvTuTG5YG0GRXq5JHRU_RoWt5/w400-h300/20201015_200814.jpg" width="400" /> </a></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i> .... claiming two of the very few musketeers the sailors had<br /></i></div><i><br /></i><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidph4LkNMt-JI8eCdOtFH29Y6gUKSYnRrzDdLVr8415SGAmGHU-ukzDni31W9ww7RxHH3lFiWY8qNhdh-IS1W2nmCruyO3Z4XemRg9YNHl6PCMscY_SawISHnJhQtVMqtkA_vOE2lXyFJG/s2048/20201015_201423.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidph4LkNMt-JI8eCdOtFH29Y6gUKSYnRrzDdLVr8415SGAmGHU-ukzDni31W9ww7RxHH3lFiWY8qNhdh-IS1W2nmCruyO3Z4XemRg9YNHl6PCMscY_SawISHnJhQtVMqtkA_vOE2lXyFJG/w400-h300/20201015_201423.jpg" width="400" /> </a></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>another batch of botched Move Orders left the sailors bunched up </i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>and unable to move toward the enemy <br /></i></div><i><br /></i><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUZRpCnmL1Fy9EsMdQ3EG7MtMQQN3XwjDbrNkXYmJTKC73wZyfS1LQCtbEMgAGzxxaXtN4J80b-x4Ow0VMHnCdnIICb3Gq14_19lmCGm2pC-rEkhMdceyxtRY3H6gtl4ti5l_-ZdgL3MyJ/s2048/20201015_201440.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUZRpCnmL1Fy9EsMdQ3EG7MtMQQN3XwjDbrNkXYmJTKC73wZyfS1LQCtbEMgAGzxxaXtN4J80b-x4Ow0VMHnCdnIICb3Gq14_19lmCGm2pC-rEkhMdceyxtRY3H6gtl4ti5l_-ZdgL3MyJ/w400-h300/20201015_201440.jpg" width="400" /> </a></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>then, much to the sailors surprise and dismay, they discovered that</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i> the garrison officers were at the Hermit's cabin playing whist,</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>these stalwart lads put up a determined defense behind the cabin's stout walls<br /></i></div><i><br /></i><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDyfJU047dlHBBQGtj9nBdJa_sC2IbddW2U0g_0NGaniT0Yekb03MNPoisb-mdIHaxmNmQdzbdeRkEa5tghfkIJd41NUHRtbZWJ87sZrkadT_4bN40IEsnCWZnUWu3P400OxCX3ko2jMji/s2048/20201015_201445.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDyfJU047dlHBBQGtj9nBdJa_sC2IbddW2U0g_0NGaniT0Yekb03MNPoisb-mdIHaxmNmQdzbdeRkEa5tghfkIJd41NUHRtbZWJ87sZrkadT_4bN40IEsnCWZnUWu3P400OxCX3ko2jMji/w400-h300/20201015_201445.jpg" width="400" /> </a></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>the garrison troops continued to advance <br /></i></div><i><br /></i><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEX134zlbc3bcfDGhG1f5CdIDXuzL-KC4rMso7llOLRztC8Aydhd-lxn0h89pxtiEobwWQUXSXf3BavFt8jMb5-Tims381Tu1E94Ywik8ybvo4xUpP4EIXMl4FwQXIoSA2dVjihUyvefDR/s2048/20201015_202030.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEX134zlbc3bcfDGhG1f5CdIDXuzL-KC4rMso7llOLRztC8Aydhd-lxn0h89pxtiEobwWQUXSXf3BavFt8jMb5-Tims381Tu1E94Ywik8ybvo4xUpP4EIXMl4FwQXIoSA2dVjihUyvefDR/w400-h300/20201015_202030.jpg" width="400" /> </a></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>their fire continued to claim the lives of the escapees <br /></i></div><i><br /></i><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheHolTaGV-T_620Oivg7i2i5JH0rVHD-3ctaP-78ZHQnLruPkcETA5t6hoesk8_c4GF5on8NsI1xFjsU6JT1JT8o8fkf9D7XZ4kxEjIaSDnS5rkCh96HzARUR7Zzyl-IICuWWVYR2i3dTM/s2048/20201015_202822.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheHolTaGV-T_620Oivg7i2i5JH0rVHD-3ctaP-78ZHQnLruPkcETA5t6hoesk8_c4GF5on8NsI1xFjsU6JT1JT8o8fkf9D7XZ4kxEjIaSDnS5rkCh96HzARUR7Zzyl-IICuWWVYR2i3dTM/w480-h640/20201015_202822.jpg" width="480" /> </a></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>weary of trading shots with the sailor's skirmishers</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i> the officers ran outside and put them to the sword <br /></i></div><i><br /></i><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj24xBoa0W7080Hq3r_1iWEYaHKzX7Uj8xp850w64BsZNVeXtZJKfps3z1A4wFKlHHRY534LmJ9pbj2M0MzK2lo3bX541JK_pbmEy59ug9AtXbBJ0QDR-k_cRab0S3NsBpRl4lSwDEasaT8/s2048/20201015_202909.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj24xBoa0W7080Hq3r_1iWEYaHKzX7Uj8xp850w64BsZNVeXtZJKfps3z1A4wFKlHHRY534LmJ9pbj2M0MzK2lo3bX541JK_pbmEy59ug9AtXbBJ0QDR-k_cRab0S3NsBpRl4lSwDEasaT8/w400-h300/20201015_202909.jpg" width="400" /> </a></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>this prompted the sailors officers to attack them<br /></i></div><i><br /></i><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJnQsXWLFntYU5WN8A8pBsCKshhr5Eqz7OjJHbke1h3NxulXGLnFLNWBJ9VqIjYMBiVFvGSZiKkVRiOM8ijsFNLD1JvYNAEsVi0vy5nKuvh6CCCvn6CBm9dlm626MvhL7fZBBCs8zPZhM1/s2048/20201015_203534.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJnQsXWLFntYU5WN8A8pBsCKshhr5Eqz7OjJHbke1h3NxulXGLnFLNWBJ9VqIjYMBiVFvGSZiKkVRiOM8ijsFNLD1JvYNAEsVi0vy5nKuvh6CCCvn6CBm9dlm626MvhL7fZBBCs8zPZhM1/w300-h400/20201015_203534.jpg" width="300" /> </a></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>the upshot of this was that only the Captain remained standing <br /></i></div><i><br /></i><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicQ3uEOVoOOeC8GbFVFgwbD8gCDa2DkvGW78MzZbqwb_pmP-w_67EEBlQRFbvncOCEQQoQdbQKlLMI0j1swS_hn0H5Ey20FVGuQTaiN9p-Q08sWC68-xH1YESPUmMG4eHtqMI28cIEoW4a/s2048/20201015_203539.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicQ3uEOVoOOeC8GbFVFgwbD8gCDa2DkvGW78MzZbqwb_pmP-w_67EEBlQRFbvncOCEQQoQdbQKlLMI0j1swS_hn0H5Ey20FVGuQTaiN9p-Q08sWC68-xH1YESPUmMG4eHtqMI28cIEoW4a/w400-h300/20201015_203539.jpg" width="400" /> </a></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>having at last gotten in range the sailors charged fiercely into the musketeers of the garrison <br /></i></div><i><br /></i><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1iMaYOaUiWPSsrxj2tfgF9uGiw8aqNpWqwq7ovY27sBPEqKw_LgGGZvnMPj43PPSLX1jZo5IyoKSaBFIdTzTxGQcX7AQvtUxsdOdfaeYao8fTjBEXHefrXRCKv2dL401yitu7sJqD3s7Z/s2048/20201015_203543.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1iMaYOaUiWPSsrxj2tfgF9uGiw8aqNpWqwq7ovY27sBPEqKw_LgGGZvnMPj43PPSLX1jZo5IyoKSaBFIdTzTxGQcX7AQvtUxsdOdfaeYao8fTjBEXHefrXRCKv2dL401yitu7sJqD3s7Z/w400-h300/20201015_203543.jpg" width="400" /> </a></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>at last able to fight they caused much carnage among the musketeers <br /></i></div><i><br /></i><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7c07YGl8NO2qIaaabk6FFQUSGhkJvFgleYmOektwQ5RlQYY7bXvG5RVLNW55Xm1A-c6JeSCZ8g8t2FAaQ4nnou1rIAO7cid3PZL4VdJ3m-QZfDJCcMmeAe9V8NaKqLGGeW_JkzI-tu5GK/s2048/20201015_203803.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7c07YGl8NO2qIaaabk6FFQUSGhkJvFgleYmOektwQ5RlQYY7bXvG5RVLNW55Xm1A-c6JeSCZ8g8t2FAaQ4nnou1rIAO7cid3PZL4VdJ3m-QZfDJCcMmeAe9V8NaKqLGGeW_JkzI-tu5GK/w400-h300/20201015_203803.jpg" width="400" /> </a></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>but the other unit of musketeers opened fire and evened the score <br /></i></div><i><br /></i><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjchAWSB3ugHpWzesBmzpdDCLEKesdaXKzSU-C1C54GwGsQZlxGO1VBQ95SuSesJ5TVdtRpyWpU3bDaxCg9DLKn0gfv8X4y9qYMP4Maki5bGLaTEtxZ9Vhe9C45iaByTsIjeCa7kKvWEM2-/s2048/20201015_204006.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjchAWSB3ugHpWzesBmzpdDCLEKesdaXKzSU-C1C54GwGsQZlxGO1VBQ95SuSesJ5TVdtRpyWpU3bDaxCg9DLKn0gfv8X4y9qYMP4Maki5bGLaTEtxZ9Vhe9C45iaByTsIjeCa7kKvWEM2-/w400-h300/20201015_204006.jpg" width="400" /> </a></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>then it was the turn of another unit of sailors to brave the fire of the steady garrison troops <br /></i></div><i><br /></i><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihB0DEOiULPqMRBpD1yiwdAX4C4SLG0Nc14yrSFmwKdOOCAXj2oDdND-pe9yHgnwzv8FisK1H_JKkJ-9Xb-0GmtY_TZhKlPWXD80TeXrSXMvNBq7OjezA5E4PLVQnC66NqKHN4mzJRkW1F/s2048/20201015_204102.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihB0DEOiULPqMRBpD1yiwdAX4C4SLG0Nc14yrSFmwKdOOCAXj2oDdND-pe9yHgnwzv8FisK1H_JKkJ-9Xb-0GmtY_TZhKlPWXD80TeXrSXMvNBq7OjezA5E4PLVQnC66NqKHN4mzJRkW1F/w300-h400/20201015_204102.jpg" width="300" /> </a></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>a look at the carnage in the Hermit's cabin <br /></i></div><i><br /></i><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkWyiIXmIpshJm6ii-X45dtFwILoHxGDW0MQ8H5N_l0w20pon770dY9kqY9OvJLspbLNP_3M1jy4pcnpbyw9Yg3sNY2vPYT2c99nEPMs0EANrSnpcQ4tcO6g1NTQXhijql3CBcv8Mfb9vJ/s2048/20201015_204107.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkWyiIXmIpshJm6ii-X45dtFwILoHxGDW0MQ8H5N_l0w20pon770dY9kqY9OvJLspbLNP_3M1jy4pcnpbyw9Yg3sNY2vPYT2c99nEPMs0EANrSnpcQ4tcO6g1NTQXhijql3CBcv8Mfb9vJ/w300-h400/20201015_204107.jpg" width="300" /> </a></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>and on the ground surrounding it <br /></i></div><i><br /></i><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhirJ0mp4IMGmI7XZbED9T9rTuoTDHPFlz07iuaYW9vV8Zz5tU6GYEt4vSuOKPDvQ0cxHXVwovMAdQ1ZH5Vv-0VizGwhJUjiqw2e2H-MuzccO2psYcbwHJsiRVmcWTLir5J7Cgq-1fQdc_s/s2048/20201015_204515.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhirJ0mp4IMGmI7XZbED9T9rTuoTDHPFlz07iuaYW9vV8Zz5tU6GYEt4vSuOKPDvQ0cxHXVwovMAdQ1ZH5Vv-0VizGwhJUjiqw2e2H-MuzccO2psYcbwHJsiRVmcWTLir5J7Cgq-1fQdc_s/w400-h300/20201015_204515.jpg" width="400" /> </a></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>at last it was the sailors chance to charge <br /></i></div><i><br /><br /></i><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkLueJ687fgIGt8Wdew0yNSBL58GrLoOWKFFaoxANf8fyZkdRpb-n00suBnsaO5FBlc55cLqV-crUEX82Y_MLWlmocnohGUsbvwLp9TUw2aC6tZ-P75p1EDuwgINVdBurKHqm9xQxkPggx/s2048/20201015_205409.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkLueJ687fgIGt8Wdew0yNSBL58GrLoOWKFFaoxANf8fyZkdRpb-n00suBnsaO5FBlc55cLqV-crUEX82Y_MLWlmocnohGUsbvwLp9TUw2aC6tZ-P75p1EDuwgINVdBurKHqm9xQxkPggx/w400-h300/20201015_205409.jpg" width="400" /> </a></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>but their morale failed after suffering several casualties <br /></i></div><i><br /></i><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUiT8hauP8DfNiTxQR9nqz_gPs-aQyal9TvZxaXlt7_wq_vE_CVJ0iabXTgsCaMBIzzReOOiNfrHhyphenhyphenzMkDQ4K8n8Gr6GpvJFHd4iFjdJwjo1ayKILtHBeItpVoDcai3qBzsP6UUxn0ZIhx/s2048/20201015_205607.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUiT8hauP8DfNiTxQR9nqz_gPs-aQyal9TvZxaXlt7_wq_vE_CVJ0iabXTgsCaMBIzzReOOiNfrHhyphenhyphenzMkDQ4K8n8Gr6GpvJFHd4iFjdJwjo1ayKILtHBeItpVoDcai3qBzsP6UUxn0ZIhx/w300-h400/20201015_205607.jpg" width="300" /> </a></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>another outbreak of terrible Orders tests stymied the advance <br /></i></div><i><br /></i><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQP0K0H0lWi7vGvMICU-K9h6wrPebWaYs1ll-1VbpnpB2vKg3-N7yIxHmesC33OPDgF3CaJBu4SwofP0qbTXhBboRX6hxgW_uNmwWxUFzYbPvZWOUfObxv0MhR68C6QS2b-IaUsW-LzVly/s2048/20201015_205812.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQP0K0H0lWi7vGvMICU-K9h6wrPebWaYs1ll-1VbpnpB2vKg3-N7yIxHmesC33OPDgF3CaJBu4SwofP0qbTXhBboRX6hxgW_uNmwWxUFzYbPvZWOUfObxv0MhR68C6QS2b-IaUsW-LzVly/w400-h300/20201015_205812.jpg" width="400" /> </a></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>the fortress garrison had moved into the buildings to gain an elevated position to fire from <br /></i></div><i><br /></i><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVJ2utkIuRCflIRUE89aSRXqM3VaRo_sNeDaGL5XvC8CKMcv4jgr2Xfy7YI9ipYmpSj403XZVHqSb2mXlka589EajNZOMozz0_pOkRg7ouG3Ftpz8-DCAfJDRkUpK3PyY5X_Ezb-b7JMuF/s2048/20201015_210003.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVJ2utkIuRCflIRUE89aSRXqM3VaRo_sNeDaGL5XvC8CKMcv4jgr2Xfy7YI9ipYmpSj403XZVHqSb2mXlka589EajNZOMozz0_pOkRg7ouG3Ftpz8-DCAfJDRkUpK3PyY5X_Ezb-b7JMuF/w400-h300/20201015_210003.jpg" width="400" /> </a></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>in addition a lucky roll of a twelve grated the musketeers a "First Volley" advantage <br /></i></div><i><br /></i><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1_y_MAwwdwLJDHvXQaJV-IMbiLlVAf0CEP0z3ys0idoso-eUgtSJu7BxScmhu10rrKA9eva2oqbADG6fqCiof24k6tvI845aHFy7wroMTna9HjDeBrPIFdn3kiZLJMBPF1tGiASoZ3See/s2048/20201015_210009.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1_y_MAwwdwLJDHvXQaJV-IMbiLlVAf0CEP0z3ys0idoso-eUgtSJu7BxScmhu10rrKA9eva2oqbADG6fqCiof24k6tvI845aHFy7wroMTna9HjDeBrPIFdn3kiZLJMBPF1tGiASoZ3See/w400-h300/20201015_210009.jpg" width="400" /> </a></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>this was particularly bad for the sailors taking the fire <br /></i></div><i><br /></i><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoqHjZXPebOK8R1FXO93KNY5dIoZYoBxEiQvTIcijnmrTRCIRXNN7LzVsfvdqiJdKUueP84Tr3T2hjdWntxt8APkKqL4GdaEqyZBGpj8uLuAtv6RWlxjG6kNJtrScHZ7pKMDFlaNY_vN9A/s2048/20201015_210258.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoqHjZXPebOK8R1FXO93KNY5dIoZYoBxEiQvTIcijnmrTRCIRXNN7LzVsfvdqiJdKUueP84Tr3T2hjdWntxt8APkKqL4GdaEqyZBGpj8uLuAtv6RWlxjG6kNJtrScHZ7pKMDFlaNY_vN9A/w300-h400/20201015_210258.jpg" width="300" /> </a></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>the Captain managed to charge into contact and kill three of them before falling <br /></i></div><i><br /></i><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjE7UJjm9GKMSu0rqIQUhkRx7SEfeeqvrgHfmbr1lIrlOJWdxTDwnqDuUa3Hls_sAwaFM0omA5JfyzuWfwBCIlsLLHcgP9xAay8Uu0XAThASTxANxn0IzEyShl3dgcY7fxSon44AQ6cnlWt/s2048/20201015_210533.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjE7UJjm9GKMSu0rqIQUhkRx7SEfeeqvrgHfmbr1lIrlOJWdxTDwnqDuUa3Hls_sAwaFM0omA5JfyzuWfwBCIlsLLHcgP9xAay8Uu0XAThASTxANxn0IzEyShl3dgcY7fxSon44AQ6cnlWt/w400-h300/20201015_210533.jpg" width="400" /></a></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>at this point the remaining sailors fled, some jumping to their deaths </i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>a few retiring to the prison where they barricaded themselves inside<br /></i></div><i><br /></i><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0VS1wlAivtMMYWKmzOQ4C_E2KHR0YtMDwYpHG761hwQTqLFXo-1mXDy94OZjsyg7W2fq3IG3f8O508zsOxg2kGt-s1z4qkF6HKlAC7OCgpDDoPq7LGI-g59x9_6tlc6PJbN5I6gmYRS1A/s2048/20201015_210558.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0VS1wlAivtMMYWKmzOQ4C_E2KHR0YtMDwYpHG761hwQTqLFXo-1mXDy94OZjsyg7W2fq3IG3f8O508zsOxg2kGt-s1z4qkF6HKlAC7OCgpDDoPq7LGI-g59x9_6tlc6PJbN5I6gmYRS1A/w400-h300/20201015_210558.jpg" width="400" /> </a></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>the scene at the end of the battle, a tableau of carnage, </i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>half the garrison dead, all but a few of the sailors slain on the field of battle </i><br /></div><p></p><p> In the gathering darkness Clermont saw the Captain fall before the swords of the garrison musketeers. Acting quickly he gathered a few steady hands and slipped into the underbrush along the base of the cliff, "Lads, listen close, for the last few weeks I've seen a fishing boat set sail from somewhere on the north coast of this island. If yer bold enough to help me rescue the Captain I'll lead you to the boat and we all will be free. Or you can stay here and hang with the rest off the boys." The three hardened sailors glanced swiftly around the group and as one nodded in assent."Good, now listen close and this is what we'll do"</p><p> Chartrand awoke to a sea of pain and the swarthy face of Clermont grinning foolishly at him, "Yer alive, I'll be damned. We thought that you were done for". Chartrand peered over the gunwale at the sea around him to find no landmarks, baffled at his circumstances he gestured weakly and raised an eyebrow. Clermont caught his meaning and explained, "We found you barely alive in the darkness and slipped away to steal this magnificent vessel" He spread his arms to indicate the tattered but seaworthy fishing boat, "We thought it best to get as far away as quickly as we could so we set off downwind, I would think that we are fifty knots south-east of Pinatella". </p><p> Chartrand wracked his memory of the sea-charts that he had spent too little time studying, vaguely recalling the two eastern satrapies of Nylia he recalled that the Satrap of Liberica was notably friendly to infidels; especially ones with technical skills. "South by southwest", he murmured, "We are going to go full outlaw with this move". <br /></p><p style="text-align: center;"><br /></p>Anton Ryzbakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07844552779982758219noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3523735026214294681.post-73541992048910315102020-09-12T14:00:00.000-07:002020-09-12T14:00:07.659-07:00Some Interesting Rules (and they are free!)<p> Over at the<a href="http://warsoflouisxiv.blogspot.com/" target="_blank"> Wars of Louis Quatorze</a> website they have posted a link to some interesting new, and free, wargaming rules covering this period and then on through the end of the War of Spanish Succession.</p><p> <a href="http://legio-wargames.com/pike-and-shot/4537125084" target="_blank"> You can find the rules here</a> but check out the entire website, Louis XIV's rule spanned the period from the end of the Thirty Years War to the establishment of the modern Europe as we know it today. There is tons of interesting articles and links.<br /></p>Anton Ryzbakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07844552779982758219noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3523735026214294681.post-47111040597997918832020-09-02T14:54:00.002-07:002020-09-02T20:22:23.113-07:00A Note on the Epicurean Monetary System<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiO-GAmARLvhJ8ANH_-WQI6RWi-G8YUOspZrq77be6DgIC2XHOz0oKl0T4SCH7o3aoALhKHSSI15UQ56afGEXoZnoztsns_kxjYDTNB0U0KCzOyhxuD6kLbWX2t0ksgMHnae_Jc6EdqJwkr/s1600/26788409-a-pile-of-gold-coins-isolated.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="716" data-original-width="1300" height="220" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiO-GAmARLvhJ8ANH_-WQI6RWi-G8YUOspZrq77be6DgIC2XHOz0oKl0T4SCH7o3aoALhKHSSI15UQ56afGEXoZnoztsns_kxjYDTNB0U0KCzOyhxuD6kLbWX2t0ksgMHnae_Jc6EdqJwkr/s400/26788409-a-pile-of-gold-coins-isolated.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div>
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Centuries ago, when almost all of the continent of Epicurea was ruled by the Wholly Romaine Empire, the monetary system was established. Through the intervening years nations have risen and fallen but all have subscribed to the ancient method of accounting and payment. The simplicity and effectiveness of the system, combined with its universal acceptance, has made it one of the most enduring features of Epicurean life. It functions as follows:<br />
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1 Calorie = the base coin, a small copper about the size of a man's thumbnail<br />
10 x Calories =1 Taste a copper coin the size of a circle made by one's thumb and forefinger<br />
10 x Tastes = 1 Spoon, a silver coin, again the size of a man's thumbnail<br />
10 x Spoons = 1 Repast, a silver coin the size of a circle made by one's thumb and forefinger<br />
10 x Repasts = 1 Serving, a silver coin the size of a woman's palm<br />
10 x Servings = 1 Meal, a gold coin the size of a circle made of one's thumb and forefinger<br />
10 x Meals = 1 Bounty, a gold coin the size of a woman's palm<br />
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Prices are expressed in the largest denomination involved; an fine apple would be " two cals", a good chair "one Repast and four" (meaning one Repast and four spoons). Coins are normally minted with the crowning of a new Monarch to mark the first year of their reign. Despite the urge to dilute the value by debasing this has never occurred (yet) as no monarch wants it preserved for all history as being the first to begin such a foul practice.<br />
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An idea as to daily wages;<br />
A common laborer can expect between four Taste and one Spoon<br />
A skilled laborer looks forward to one Spoon and six up to three Spoon<br />
A common soldier would get from two Spoon to three Spoon<br />
A craftsman seeks three Spoon and two up to five Spoon<br />
A cavalryman would not turn down four Spoon but would prefer seven Spoon and five<br />
A master craftsman seeks between two and six Repasts<br />
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An idea as to costs;<br />
A fine apple might cost two Calories<br />
A full meal would be around one Taste<br />
A simple shirt would run between one Taste and three Tastes and four<br />
A good pair of boots would be reasonably priced at four Tastes<br />
A good plow-horse might fetch nine Servings<br />
A truly fine sword can run to two Meals and four<br />
A fruitful farm would expect to go for three to six Bounty<br />
Anton Ryzbakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07844552779982758219noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3523735026214294681.post-37121291674931053092020-08-31T13:54:00.000-07:002020-08-31T14:16:28.596-07:00Riding the Storm Out, Another Naval Affary ends poorly for Freedonia Louis the Ravenous sat on his throne leaning his head against his upthrust index finger which he was rubbing in small circles on his temple. He sighed deeply and asked, "So, what you are telling me is that the Northern Expedition has wandered off and gotten bogged down besieging some tiny port, the Gluttonians have failed to support our other troops in the efforts to free Viennee from the Ferndalian invaders and, on top of everything else, the wretched Ferndalians not only are patrolling just off our shore, they attack our ships as they are trying to return home.?" He raised an eyebrow and smiled dryly.<br />
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<i>the situation at dawn, the ships were battered by last night's storm,</i></div>
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<i> all
sustained some degree of damage; the smaller, handier and better crewed
Ferndalian ships each got 1/2 d4 damage to each of their masts and 1/2
d6 to each hull section; the larger, less handy and indifferently crewed
Freedonian ships suffered the same but did<b> not</b> halve the damage</i></div>
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<i><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEga_4gJSEm5hFMEZuyq2z7LMFNHwvja-UJ0jedAeYS8vStPyhyphenhyphenffBspx7L-QOpFJlp3WjTpYrbG2NhDZlsETNjXWISOSQ8euDpemDY6JlvnRp-m1oOMohappKS1EVoAcNqmV_XggDT2O6gj/s1600/20200827_203658.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEga_4gJSEm5hFMEZuyq2z7LMFNHwvja-UJ0jedAeYS8vStPyhyphenhyphenffBspx7L-QOpFJlp3WjTpYrbG2NhDZlsETNjXWISOSQ8euDpemDY6JlvnRp-m1oOMohappKS1EVoAcNqmV_XggDT2O6gj/s640/20200827_203658.jpg" width="480" /></a></i></div>
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<i><i>the L'Apertif sailed straight east to cover the other two great
galleons as they struggled to make way against the wind, the Frendalians
ships quickly closed on the lone galleon</i></i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrcbvx8sZ_qQ3biQ-wpagI_80mGgzX6OnBgi05Gojg7Yv6rN3NG0QXD7jiANDOh_v3BBNfLOADTvvD_bXn7IJOW2A9PYBLBawAzmuMAguj9zO4nhHaLRE7She91Y3WBVqzAD-BuXFJg8nU/s1600/20200827_203658.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrcbvx8sZ_qQ3biQ-wpagI_80mGgzX6OnBgi05Gojg7Yv6rN3NG0QXD7jiANDOh_v3BBNfLOADTvvD_bXn7IJOW2A9PYBLBawAzmuMAguj9zO4nhHaLRE7She91Y3WBVqzAD-BuXFJg8nU/s640/20200827_203658.jpg" width="480" /> </a></div>
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<i>as her sisters slowly made way to windward </i></div>
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<i>the L'Apertif suffered from the attentions of the entire Ferndalian fleet </i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCkP9KSFvCEL2kWnHyjaHxDxlyQqxb_WqzRrIkWQFYmsTUOtajDTw-hdUYdnoKwuv48l5nUM2qPrKMe0UW9hZgdkHaXdcruIwT_GwxZjMakcwrGc_iWsNWs1iGq4ZvVf3m6PF86ddSACE5/s1600/20200827_204608.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCkP9KSFvCEL2kWnHyjaHxDxlyQqxb_WqzRrIkWQFYmsTUOtajDTw-hdUYdnoKwuv48l5nUM2qPrKMe0UW9hZgdkHaXdcruIwT_GwxZjMakcwrGc_iWsNWs1iGq4ZvVf3m6PF86ddSACE5/s640/20200827_204608.jpg" width="480" /> </a></div>
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<i>L'Digestif entered the fray with a bow-rake of the Broiler</i></div>
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<i> but the L'Apertif was denied a stern-rake on the Kettle due to her slow-loading heavy guns </i></div>
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<i>the endlessly energetic Olive hurried along trying to gain a stern-rake on the L'Apertif</i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijiGM_IAZujM7OcdJoxtxjIswa7qmnuvajEJNye4jauOX4ZoKQh_d2C4WKt8Y1PN45cslGvoKR6Q5i_lS6vPtHBD3lGdzVbToVr82n_oU33tkaqgreXXm9oNtWAQR54yi7AVsoNbd1qIvF/s1600/20200827_211845.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijiGM_IAZujM7OcdJoxtxjIswa7qmnuvajEJNye4jauOX4ZoKQh_d2C4WKt8Y1PN45cslGvoKR6Q5i_lS6vPtHBD3lGdzVbToVr82n_oU33tkaqgreXXm9oNtWAQR54yi7AVsoNbd1qIvF/s640/20200827_211845.jpg" width="480" /></a> </div>
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<i>frustrated by the slow-going and unable to bear the sight of the her sister being assailed L'Entree turned dead east and gained speed while L'Apertif and Kettle exchanged broadsides, L'Digestif fired at Broiler but received fire from both Broiler and Collander</i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-Dzqn3L62kLebB6JHfSIjQAIZKixUCMw0WBGfkO74XY3CONmVXSnZ5vKf1TGHNRoPSmQ29EaDQQhOjxdOQCwRhULv1YwP9JI4tj_5xgo94st7C5gMWDuKrgf7IYPAJMxqt1WEBaz7JHJl/s1600/20200827_213313.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-Dzqn3L62kLebB6JHfSIjQAIZKixUCMw0WBGfkO74XY3CONmVXSnZ5vKf1TGHNRoPSmQ29EaDQQhOjxdOQCwRhULv1YwP9JI4tj_5xgo94st7C5gMWDuKrgf7IYPAJMxqt1WEBaz7JHJl/s640/20200827_213313.jpg" width="480" /> </a></div>
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<i>suddenly realizing that they were sailing straight toward the reef both L'Apertif and Kettle began to tack to the North, Olive took this opportunity to stern-rake the L'Apertif; the damage from this took down two of L'Apertif's masts </i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEg-bp18MbkSsEG7fZZdQXVbJ0GRwL1gfzBsnwz-rg1_Mjp8zSaid5oW3Cna4OQy5TCgDcdBd6P6NLA7gs384AaQxQ6gdwSvFodHAZPNmrxTOzw_nmzydLwerqcw3dUudUvTKTM14gEMGy/s1600/20200827_215031.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEg-bp18MbkSsEG7fZZdQXVbJ0GRwL1gfzBsnwz-rg1_Mjp8zSaid5oW3Cna4OQy5TCgDcdBd6P6NLA7gs384AaQxQ6gdwSvFodHAZPNmrxTOzw_nmzydLwerqcw3dUudUvTKTM14gEMGy/s640/20200827_215031.jpg" width="480" /> </a></div>
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<i>Kettle continued to tack around L'Apertif's bow while the cocky Olive sailed alongside firing like mad and suffering from the full attentions of the return broadside; seeing L'Apertif's plight L'Digestif turned to try to pass her a line and give a tow, L'Entree was finally close enough to fire but was blocked by her sister</i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg52OxxxiekkTbkZqUBLomaw0ld52qpsp6LNn68XfgBvg-YVr2CYpz4IsVGaHtioTNpu3Tjd-5X5OPmBIbrLvrDvcnpDqV7d49kMPCprl89PGOGdX52ch8K6M0m5hbJnB9cBA18cnF0Vlqd/s1600/20200827_220044.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg52OxxxiekkTbkZqUBLomaw0ld52qpsp6LNn68XfgBvg-YVr2CYpz4IsVGaHtioTNpu3Tjd-5X5OPmBIbrLvrDvcnpDqV7d49kMPCprl89PGOGdX52ch8K6M0m5hbJnB9cBA18cnF0Vlqd/s640/20200827_220044.jpg" width="480" /> </a></div>
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<i>the next turn saw some adept maneuvering to avoid collisions as the long-frustrated L'Entree finally got off an initial broadside into the Broiler which damaged her severely and caused her to strike her colors, the Kettle fired a devastating bow-rake into L'Apertif which took down the last of her rigging, the other ships were busy frantically reloading</i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmvROBMpW1B_6UNQmEEsbxGGpRGB-eflNsFvY72jd2TyoynQ5c0DL7NI-wpOHJCZYbevfOPSuD_nwxvOyoC1VtQW-z8kyYV037r6u9TgsSJJKtwYCjG6vUHzfI8NDVBfpoIa4mTe3JEZoN/s1600/20200827_221235.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmvROBMpW1B_6UNQmEEsbxGGpRGB-eflNsFvY72jd2TyoynQ5c0DL7NI-wpOHJCZYbevfOPSuD_nwxvOyoC1VtQW-z8kyYV037r6u9TgsSJJKtwYCjG6vUHzfI8NDVBfpoIa4mTe3JEZoN/s640/20200827_221235.jpg" width="480" /> </a></div>
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<i> L'Digestif has forgotten that the now-hulked L'Apertif would drift and collided with her as she passed, before doing so she delivered a broadside into Broiler who replied in kind, seeing what had happened L'Entree steered to the north of L'Apertif to try to arrange a tow</i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSaUn53dlOCgYCH-2KGyFiRxC7XjanJhpwEbM4IT-h1AZZCpylshuifodcy6VZbT0DC6IKQj3T1xtJ-VPt26G9nS-NDgDjgN6aPidpUN0boSY1tBQ-DsdowgNUoiSVhJbBewslbUDw6oVp/s1600/20200827_223041.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSaUn53dlOCgYCH-2KGyFiRxC7XjanJhpwEbM4IT-h1AZZCpylshuifodcy6VZbT0DC6IKQj3T1xtJ-VPt26G9nS-NDgDjgN6aPidpUN0boSY1tBQ-DsdowgNUoiSVhJbBewslbUDw6oVp/s640/20200827_223041.jpg" width="480" /> </a></div>
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<i>the ever aggressive Olive turned north to try to line up another stern-rake on the now-doomed L'Apertif but had discounted the power of the wrecked ships cannon, the resulting bow-rake ruined the bold little frigate and she struck her colors, L'Digestif desperately turned to the south to avoid the reef colliding again with L'Apertif but suffering no damage, L'Entree suffered the attentions of Colander and Kettle while trying to get into a position to tow L'Apertif</i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiItHpHW0rWsQ44XQUaycV7bckmVQMIXOAXebezfd_47VgPc4TPpJMtFL9VfE6jRD161wU4mweGPGCLL8xYW3_A-LI23EPfm8pcAW0NOkuTSzu56jcyHOmrk3jOB4pqMdsNlRU_eGp2QdHL/s1600/20200827_224105.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiItHpHW0rWsQ44XQUaycV7bckmVQMIXOAXebezfd_47VgPc4TPpJMtFL9VfE6jRD161wU4mweGPGCLL8xYW3_A-LI23EPfm8pcAW0NOkuTSzu56jcyHOmrk3jOB4pqMdsNlRU_eGp2QdHL/s640/20200827_224105.jpg" width="480" /> </a></div>
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<i>blocked by the drifting L'Apertif and the sinking wrecks of Olive and Broiler L'Digestif had to sail far to the south to try to regain the fight while L'Entree sustained the battle against both Colander and Kettle while tacking to the north again to avoid the reef</i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPz58fU8LEeFRqMYwCKriN8pwlGujXdbACMstpRugw1c4brMQD5sFgSNaKnb_bMAiQuXJyGHbpVmttk5RhfADAFS3zCekr7yaAtHVp_JiJ0-IDr1yyoIPouTIxfvjqncHQy5wsOX_FJFG6/s1600/20200827_224809.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPz58fU8LEeFRqMYwCKriN8pwlGujXdbACMstpRugw1c4brMQD5sFgSNaKnb_bMAiQuXJyGHbpVmttk5RhfADAFS3zCekr7yaAtHVp_JiJ0-IDr1yyoIPouTIxfvjqncHQy5wsOX_FJFG6/s640/20200827_224809.jpg" width="480" /> </a></div>
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<i>seeing the nearly immobile and virtually defenseless L'Apertif drifting slowly south the Kettle drove in for the kill and lined up a stern-rake, L'Digestive had finally gotten far enough to the west to start heading north once more, coming out of Irons the Colander turned east as the L'Entree bore west </i></div>
<i><br /></i>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY_ontDrMP5XTnjZv4CEupTM6BvbpCxD5Uw2pWy_c-r36cYEO_EvnaG3Qfejqz5aBCbuZm7mPzs0bFViXQOOZOY7HddtbmJe6w-e147efGlVD72oMqCQWQJz2_3oIp_V6wuQFUtpoXQ5nJ/s1600/20200827_225759.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY_ontDrMP5XTnjZv4CEupTM6BvbpCxD5Uw2pWy_c-r36cYEO_EvnaG3Qfejqz5aBCbuZm7mPzs0bFViXQOOZOY7HddtbmJe6w-e147efGlVD72oMqCQWQJz2_3oIp_V6wuQFUtpoXQ5nJ/s640/20200827_225759.jpg" width="480" /> </a></div>
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<i>the turn opened with the Kettle delivering a carefully aimed and devastating stern-rake to the L'Apertif, seeing the L'Entree making way northward again the Colander once more turned into the wind to keep its guns bearing, while far to the south the L'Digestif had gone to full sail and was finally making headway northward </i></div>
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</div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4k0LeUty2U3wRf0-tsSXow1MJ2rdOPGDelOhYX07ieiCFGWq9Y5kv7f1IMULEJvp7ZLYbQctb6XkRg63Bws6MpY69ZyEST7qJnWqBYIgDcOvqoUI2zRVEZJ3jfRfPLgxnx5GaCWE4Ri9z/s1600/20200827_230249.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4k0LeUty2U3wRf0-tsSXow1MJ2rdOPGDelOhYX07ieiCFGWq9Y5kv7f1IMULEJvp7ZLYbQctb6XkRg63Bws6MpY69ZyEST7qJnWqBYIgDcOvqoUI2zRVEZJ3jfRfPLgxnx5GaCWE4Ri9z/s640/20200827_230249.jpg" width="480" /> </a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>being in the best position possible the Kettle loosed it sails and drifted south to stay in a raking position on the L'Apertif; having headed far enough to the west to make the angle past the headland the L'Digestif came around into the wind, as did L'Entree who took advantage of Colander's stationary position and fired a broadside that greatly battered her hull</i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhm_LN1CCoF2WL-FNK0MHRFvTGGiNznOT79piZEUV3VbSGF94QPNRWo_l82e0KXCSOOatebL0yOlSR5nTq2HcXhKBMt2m8qZKLBLKXlDxd0eZmo7VEvm7Hi_VfDulZHy61hwzYNfw1z-UAZ/s1600/20200827_230713.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhm_LN1CCoF2WL-FNK0MHRFvTGGiNznOT79piZEUV3VbSGF94QPNRWo_l82e0KXCSOOatebL0yOlSR5nTq2HcXhKBMt2m8qZKLBLKXlDxd0eZmo7VEvm7Hi_VfDulZHy61hwzYNfw1z-UAZ/s640/20200827_230713.jpg" width="480" /> </a></div>
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<i>once more Kettle fired a stern-rake into the long suffering L'Apertif which sent her to the bottom, </i></div>
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<i>the remaining three ships clawed their way northward </i></div>
<i><br /></i>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirchbbjKjVwUb3076es-zKnRSmFkmKPy0fz4xV4J9IMY-Tkmv0gcj2WiyyqscSPWqyGMYIiAx15np1ztgH9CEzWQ_V6WR75588cPowAxEV-we-8q586b1cX9xna9wS2U1PudqkDoy_PAye/s1600/20200827_231151.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirchbbjKjVwUb3076es-zKnRSmFkmKPy0fz4xV4J9IMY-Tkmv0gcj2WiyyqscSPWqyGMYIiAx15np1ztgH9CEzWQ_V6WR75588cPowAxEV-we-8q586b1cX9xna9wS2U1PudqkDoy_PAye/s640/20200827_231151.jpg" width="480" /> </a></div>
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<i>the next turn saw Kettle deliver a bruising bow-rake at L'Entree </i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEir5-IfxVP8Rw9pYTRHsvmejd3-ULfil-imyfYgrmgb3bezO8x5cUoRD5hjE1FEp5KJaerRyrL7V2_LK_-rH-sqqcCF45FnNs_5BStRKy3sm6UTRpwuI_iFLDQXPyxs6j9t7qXNf6oIif-x/s1600/20200827_231157.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEir5-IfxVP8Rw9pYTRHsvmejd3-ULfil-imyfYgrmgb3bezO8x5cUoRD5hjE1FEp5KJaerRyrL7V2_LK_-rH-sqqcCF45FnNs_5BStRKy3sm6UTRpwuI_iFLDQXPyxs6j9t7qXNf6oIif-x/s640/20200827_231157.jpg" width="480" /> </a></div>
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<i>while L'Digestif and Kettle maneuvered toward one another </i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6w7XYjqutbE55szuEpoiFoLQ4_w5cbpuGHKMVHsz0DW-XO_TDpShQBFDzkwYR-G95ypXW5sv1mOoYhgMj2RUjKwrORWTGMukqj6eeV0rIi0JHvXb-EqDlq3K7o_II2bijcdbSrHLvffEF/s1600/20200827_231539.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6w7XYjqutbE55szuEpoiFoLQ4_w5cbpuGHKMVHsz0DW-XO_TDpShQBFDzkwYR-G95ypXW5sv1mOoYhgMj2RUjKwrORWTGMukqj6eeV0rIi0JHvXb-EqDlq3K7o_II2bijcdbSrHLvffEF/s640/20200827_231539.jpg" width="480" /> </a></div>
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<i>the battle had devolved into two one-on-one duels..... </i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJBNufrPZwoPcJ0-N5iBJKOxXny_73IoZxOjOFotavtYaBGZ9Ub3kKjEwSCO_2LYN0C9vVSqKKpzya7_HAaXgm9JoNm196_RIaKmT4iopAhF0gUMoVGrA6NFKUX0xaUe5Z5fSNH_nzZ74G/s1600/20200827_231541.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJBNufrPZwoPcJ0-N5iBJKOxXny_73IoZxOjOFotavtYaBGZ9Ub3kKjEwSCO_2LYN0C9vVSqKKpzya7_HAaXgm9JoNm196_RIaKmT4iopAhF0gUMoVGrA6NFKUX0xaUe5Z5fSNH_nzZ74G/s640/20200827_231541.jpg" width="480" /> </a></div>
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<i>.....again the faster, better crewed and more nimble Ferndalians had the advantage,</i></div>
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<i> as Kettle got into position to deliver a stern-rake to L'Digestif .....</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgD1Q4eAnqqmNFtMcWA8z-aQXOipgxeGPwn-A8_LGVrAhzmQq4rjcO-I1Xv2sMWWQ1eXxBHDDTQymmwjhEjDpLwe_vYGn2Rcuj0oUC7HUTxhhy0YGcyvsrYujIHNUA8QCNgYn8cQmBDA4dW/s1600/20200827_231545.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgD1Q4eAnqqmNFtMcWA8z-aQXOipgxeGPwn-A8_LGVrAhzmQq4rjcO-I1Xv2sMWWQ1eXxBHDDTQymmwjhEjDpLwe_vYGn2Rcuj0oUC7HUTxhhy0YGcyvsrYujIHNUA8QCNgYn8cQmBDA4dW/s640/20200827_231545.jpg" width="480" /> </a></div>
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<i>...and Colander deftly evaded L'Entree's boarding attempts... </i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiRGWv1E27pHBA7EeWiiskrt8Y1yRf17jJ8nmpJyqzjTHiJWxEmqchELrrcJkIYb3szbYGDhHb1g-Q2KZTBVHvG2wRay0tG2j7crAxLkeGkd6Vz0sbpmEsh-Aqa3cMLpQhMjz7Tsmz__RJ/s1600/20200827_231902.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiRGWv1E27pHBA7EeWiiskrt8Y1yRf17jJ8nmpJyqzjTHiJWxEmqchELrrcJkIYb3szbYGDhHb1g-Q2KZTBVHvG2wRay0tG2j7crAxLkeGkd6Vz0sbpmEsh-Aqa3cMLpQhMjz7Tsmz__RJ/s640/20200827_231902.jpg" width="480" /> </a></div>
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<i>Kettle's stern-rake was devastating, nearly sinking the battered L'Digestif</i> </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilrWoSnF9qkGHrnL7CzXxNL8lEKMAmSPGeglweXymqPqzu-pXE9je34xX0iPbtXRUzShSR_ueJ7UY21KpEu_ZPgzMZdqdWEElZ8rrmDPl4lwtbv00RY45QJPTOdGIIkpeM05cYu6B7n8p_/s1600/20200827_231908.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilrWoSnF9qkGHrnL7CzXxNL8lEKMAmSPGeglweXymqPqzu-pXE9je34xX0iPbtXRUzShSR_ueJ7UY21KpEu_ZPgzMZdqdWEElZ8rrmDPl4lwtbv00RY45QJPTOdGIIkpeM05cYu6B7n8p_/s400/20200827_231908.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div>
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<i>Colander once more suffered the attentions of L'Entree's broadside </i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNJLAn9wsdVFP2YJo4jGcGorEzb9JYmmJxmsMtUy1wk2gAX6Y5ZS9wNBnyoDh6uaiMQpkfcFHx5OOLSRjL4USbWOXHJ-vMk6k6TmQUGFKESGreHljmb2iZW3UxsVF_WJM9-L6PsKfZ8Urh/s1600/20200827_232207.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNJLAn9wsdVFP2YJo4jGcGorEzb9JYmmJxmsMtUy1wk2gAX6Y5ZS9wNBnyoDh6uaiMQpkfcFHx5OOLSRjL4USbWOXHJ-vMk6k6TmQUGFKESGreHljmb2iZW3UxsVF_WJM9-L6PsKfZ8Urh/s400/20200827_232207.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div>
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<i>unable to aid her sister the L'Entree sadly rounded the headland to safety </i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfXkK_8c-A_xOR5jaKgx1MkIIIQEAYAXolv8GO0_nh1f0NXwcLgzSLql9ssOuzsheWWRXKTZJS_2j3OVwM2swSJyFl4MlKVSKn-44ZwKYcYQYMG9Elk1Qh4H8V7yIiY8UzP3DZL7zr6Bjf/s1600/20200827_232719.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfXkK_8c-A_xOR5jaKgx1MkIIIQEAYAXolv8GO0_nh1f0NXwcLgzSLql9ssOuzsheWWRXKTZJS_2j3OVwM2swSJyFl4MlKVSKn-44ZwKYcYQYMG9Elk1Qh4H8V7yIiY8UzP3DZL7zr6Bjf/s640/20200827_232719.jpg" width="480" /> </a></div>
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<i>while another round of fire reduced L'Digestif to a wreck and she lowered her colors </i></div>
<i><br /></i>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhu6R4Xomi3KaTHN3J3MnprFepLZTb-L-dieFoSKOqgqzD0qLaihHiZsr3iMn2QBMpX34hmBw0zd84INonBXLInam3kEhWLPS77Hwj9iTngaEj2A-OS8XkE1fwPaucoZI3BARXTiNCpHxNZ/s1600/20200827_232725.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhu6R4Xomi3KaTHN3J3MnprFepLZTb-L-dieFoSKOqgqzD0qLaihHiZsr3iMn2QBMpX34hmBw0zd84INonBXLInam3kEhWLPS77Hwj9iTngaEj2A-OS8XkE1fwPaucoZI3BARXTiNCpHxNZ/s400/20200827_232725.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div>
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<i>the situation at the end of the game, two Great Galleons sunk or struck at the cost of a frigate and a galleon, better crews count for more than massive guns </i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
"It seems so, your Majesty", his much troubled Chamberlain
replied. "Reports from the field are incomplete but that is what they
indicate".</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
"In complete or not, what they show is failure
at every turn. This is not how this year was supposed to be playing out.
We will have to risk drawing troops from the northwest a to reinforce
the central front with the intent of saving Vienee." His finger pointed
toward the turbulent maritime provinces surrounding Huet le Mont. "Be
sure to have the fortress commanders reminded to be doubly vigilant, we
don't want any coup-de-main happening as befell my father. Baron du
Marmont, how goes the Great Canal?" he pivoted his gaze to his Minister
of the Interior.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
"Exactly on schedule, Your Majesty" the wizened old Baron smiled, happy to be the beraer of good news.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
"Well, that is a joyous sound in my ears, " Louis smiled at him
and nodded, "Now, about my navy, or the splintered remains that are
still floating", he looked across the King's Chamber at Count Curzon,
Minister of Marine, lurking in the dimly-lit corner of the room, "Step
into the light and provide me with the truth as to why, after phenomenal
costs, we have been beaten so soundly" </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Curzon gather his
papers and cleared his throat before addressing the King."The situation
is uniformly bad M'Lord" , he stated with a note of calm that surprised
even himself. "The expectations that we held in the Spring have not
been met. Of the six Great Galleons one is undergoing repairs in
Pinatella harbor, two have been sunk and another is in need of a refit
after the last battle. Meanwhile the Ferndalians grow ever more
aggressive and confident and now pose more of a threat to our commerce
than the Pirates. The Western Fleet has not returned from the New World
yet so we have few remaining trained sailors available to us. The plague
set back the training of the Fleet of the Middle Seas, I blame myself
for allowing them to begin patrols before I was certain that the crews
were sufficiently trained." </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Louis looked at him for a long
time, "I thank you for your honesty Count Curzon, if you had lied or
tried to make light of the situation I might have had your head for
treason. But there is too much precious knowledge in that head for me to
take it off your noble shoulders. You told me that with the Great
Galleons we would be the masters of the sea, yet here we sit unable to
so much as go fishing. Frankly this is most exasperating."</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Curzon squared his shoulders and looked the King in the eye, "May I speak freely, Gracious Lord?"</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Louis sat up at the use of the archaic address, "You wish to speak to
me as a 'man of the people' invoking your ancient right?" he asked
closely gauging the response. If he gave the Count his permission he
could not hold anything that was said against his noble servant. Curzon
has served him for many years and his loyalty was undoubted. The king
sat up in his throne, carefully straightening his doublet and wiping the
creases from his breeches. "You may, it is your right" he intoned.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Curzon nodded and in a quiet and calm voice stated,"Lord your strategic
insights are apt, your ability to command an army in battle is
unmatched but ships at sea operate under rules that even you cannot
command. Poseidon decides the path of the waves and the force of the
wind and our simple sailors have to make do as best they can with what
the Gods provide. It is not the fault of the brave souls on the ships,
or the commanders of the navy that they cannot march to and fro as your
armies do. That said, if our sailors were better trained they would be
more adept at dealing with the acts of Providence. As Your Majesty is
well aware the State owes me many millions, I would gladly set that
aside if you would allow me, exclusively, to run the navy for the next
year. I will faithfully execute the objectives set by you but I must
have a free hand as to how that objective is accomplished, within the
Laws of War and a Christian conscience, of course. I have said my
peace".</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Louis steepled his fingertips and looked into the
dark distance of the Chamber, calculating the many possible outcomes of
this offer. "You can do no worse than what we have now, and I know your
heart Curzon you would rather die than fail in a promise to me. So be
it; you are no longer one of my ministers. You are now the Grand High
Lord of All The Seas, all of my ships, from the largest to the most tiny
are yours to use and command as you see fit from this day until the
First of September in the Year of Our Lord 1621"</div>
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Anton Ryzbakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07844552779982758219noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3523735026214294681.post-34708449973980464292020-08-24T09:30:00.000-07:002020-08-24T10:09:02.950-07:00Fight 'Em 'Til You Can't<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlwNxs0jnTLtoqOn5tYwKqDWcq-n9sj0n4oL0xbbH88cxTups8RQhi8mj8CiOMga7ztFZd5j6a3HItupvjYzvwJnJTYeivuj3bHGZOxTIjS9kbzXegARnHOCkB3h2PmlCcK9habnARj4jM/s1600/Mankowski%2527s+Plan.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlwNxs0jnTLtoqOn5tYwKqDWcq-n9sj0n4oL0xbbH88cxTups8RQhi8mj8CiOMga7ztFZd5j6a3HItupvjYzvwJnJTYeivuj3bHGZOxTIjS9kbzXegARnHOCkB3h2PmlCcK9habnARj4jM/s400/Mankowski%2527s+Plan.png" width="400" /> </a></div>
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<i>Ferndalian Minister of War, Igor Mankowski, and his dream;</i></div>
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<i> a Duchy of his own, stretching across all of northern Gluttonia</i></div>
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The Comte du Fromage smiled as he viewed the Small-Plater forces arrayed against him, "We shall show our Gluttonian allies how to conduct a proper assault. Nothing like their bungled efforts at the Blutiger Bach two weeks ago" he proclaimed with a satisfied tone, "Now let us have breakfast before we get on with today's work". The Freedonians had spent the past weeks maneuvering around the siegeworks of the Ferndalian invaders seeking to get a feel for the enemy's response time and the strength of the ring of earthworks that surrounded the city of Vienee. </div>
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At long last they had found a gap in the line right near the village of Stalzdat, granted it was a position that needed little improvement; a continuous line of hills that covered the road that the Ferndalians were using as a supply route. A single redoubt covered the lone gap in the hill line, hosting a pair of cannon aimed right down the road. The Comte was aware that it was a strong position, but he had a three-to-one superiority in Horse and his Foot doubled the number opposing him and he felt confident of the outcome of this contest.</div>
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Duke Stephen "The Jovial" sat his horse on the ridge looking at the Freedonian army forming up in front of him. In the dim morning light he could see that they easily outnumbered him by a significant margin, he turned to his aide-de-camp, "Send riders to the others. This is where they test us, and it will be today! Hurry now and tell them to move with the utmost dispatch!". As he rode along the ride he encountered the brightly-dressed Pretender to the Throne, Hanz de Flamboise. The erratic youth might be as mad as a March hare but in battle he had proven to be an inspiring and fearless leader capable of swift decisions and having a fine tactical touch.</div>
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Hanz rode toward him smiling, "The enemy outnumbers us by quite a bit, eh?" he swept his arm toward the north. "Try this" he said abruptly as he held out a small package wrapped in paper, "My personal chef, McDonald, came up with it yesterday and I find it most amusing", Duke Stephen unwrapped the proffered item to find a biscuit sliced in half with a bit of ham, a fried egg and some cheese thrust inside, he shrugged and took a bite. A smile spread across his face, "Yes, My Lord, it is most delicious!". Hanz smiled widely, "I know!"' he exclaimed "Ronald is a master at making simple things into something wonderful. I had several of these issued to all my soldiers!". He turned to the north and gazed at the long line of Freedonian troops moving into position. "I trust that help is on the way", he said with a note of certainty. "It is M'Lord, but we will have some hard fighting before it arrives". Hanz nodded, "And if it doesn't?", he asked evenly while gazing at the ever-larger force drawing up before him. Stephen grinned at him, "Then M'Lord, you fight 'em 'til you can't. We are all going to die someday, why not die a hero?". Hanz turned and looked at him, "Well said my friend, but I have no intentions of dying today, and neither should you". At that moment the cannons boomed forth the announcement that the battle had begun.</div>
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<i>just some geographical pointers to make the after action report easier to follow</i></div>
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<i>the deployment position of the Gluttonian Small-Platers </i></div>
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<i>they took maximum advantage of the terrain</i></div>
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<i> but both flanks were hanging in the wind</i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHSRGV-yxrqBPng4b31oPCWLX8wO5EXfzw0bOMYXXb6Z5cO4NnadA8e6Goc8sDh4MpIIrLGuEnUXYX7-Biaj8lSmvASadSGJv0PbMfagIa-M9o75jgZUdRUY1dwYCY_bAdhfye07VZlQtU/s1600/label+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHSRGV-yxrqBPng4b31oPCWLX8wO5EXfzw0bOMYXXb6Z5cO4NnadA8e6Goc8sDh4MpIIrLGuEnUXYX7-Biaj8lSmvASadSGJv0PbMfagIa-M9o75jgZUdRUY1dwYCY_bAdhfye07VZlQtU/s400/label+2.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div>
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<i>the deployment of the much larger Proper-Mealer force's left wing </i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDC_UBx6S51vS7_3AVzETmi_Aylhcpe8B09fHACExZtLKp_ZQQ96u1rPB7d0TOH8eR2ny4OgwltDpsY5bnRVzQvgvSM7F1y8r-J4_C9jXK020CICDL-kGGyR6EqnaQ4GYtISWGbkuYaGHB/s1600/label+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDC_UBx6S51vS7_3AVzETmi_Aylhcpe8B09fHACExZtLKp_ZQQ96u1rPB7d0TOH8eR2ny4OgwltDpsY5bnRVzQvgvSM7F1y8r-J4_C9jXK020CICDL-kGGyR6EqnaQ4GYtISWGbkuYaGHB/s400/label+3.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div>
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<i>and the Proper-Mealers right wing </i></div>
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<i>quite simply their mission was to drive straight through the line of hills</i></div>
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<i> and get into the enemy's rear area and wreak havoc</i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipl1BhtJ6ofkGE8Z1BiU_GRZZ3l41kEpOMiYrpH3emkxEyvPdjqTCXGlCPU0Eh1bMdNBDAW2raKVNTxJC-_VPX8pkqIVerVGQ7UJmnoX2mUyZZCARh4EduUA5sr_6X_sBaYrO6L-uA53pp/s1600/20200820_191349.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipl1BhtJ6ofkGE8Z1BiU_GRZZ3l41kEpOMiYrpH3emkxEyvPdjqTCXGlCPU0Eh1bMdNBDAW2raKVNTxJC-_VPX8pkqIVerVGQ7UJmnoX2mUyZZCARh4EduUA5sr_6X_sBaYrO6L-uA53pp/s400/20200820_191349.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div>
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<i>the battle opened with a rapid advance by the Proper-Mealers and the firing of the medium guns</i></div>
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<i>riders were frantically dispatched to the east and west seeking Small-Plater reinforcements </i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVaMC5N7lGgQ9sXA5BlG02YNlybay81ksB5KFPEqswGM7fc2XZC4nYQ3GT5UButy-VGQYbwbS_MhD-svKlohIxpiXtL_idM3Mb-4VCluiFpdo_KDAHeZos9RXRyKvxgHsq5Ayseudxk1z5/s1600/20200820_191355.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVaMC5N7lGgQ9sXA5BlG02YNlybay81ksB5KFPEqswGM7fc2XZC4nYQ3GT5UButy-VGQYbwbS_MhD-svKlohIxpiXtL_idM3Mb-4VCluiFpdo_KDAHeZos9RXRyKvxgHsq5Ayseudxk1z5/s400/20200820_191355.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div>
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<i>the Proper-Mealers cavalry right away made for the gap </i></div>
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<i>between the Tiny Woods and the woods on the Big Hill </i></div>
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<i>this potentially could turn the right flank of the Small-Plater position</i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6SckMTElgxpddD7rwK7KhqhjW22IZGJejuLnX4O8jCpusx9xS0FXjTYGlPke5HW1Gq-0AnMGP1kUjAxnz0T9uBYGM8g9aA1Z_mQMGfqgAu1lmnBB9glz6y4W2X9Fu8dr_LWvpXbQAjl_X/s1600/20200820_192913.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6SckMTElgxpddD7rwK7KhqhjW22IZGJejuLnX4O8jCpusx9xS0FXjTYGlPke5HW1Gq-0AnMGP1kUjAxnz0T9uBYGM8g9aA1Z_mQMGfqgAu1lmnBB9glz6y4W2X9Fu8dr_LWvpXbQAjl_X/s400/20200820_192913.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div>
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<i>desperate to even the odds the Small-Platers opened fire </i></div>
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<i>on the enemy Shot as soon as they were in range </i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgREaKtGV3yj-MoVEnm9LPvM9zBPO-bl76UYOdp411-oED1_OiBrdmr029ZG0euNd4hVWEPZyk9x0EPEIG5V6dc7OIiEUpXpxFC5vM399eCmVhz4ZlbUdG9SXGO9dlJpS6v7ikGhE24xqt-/s1600/20200820_192917.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgREaKtGV3yj-MoVEnm9LPvM9zBPO-bl76UYOdp411-oED1_OiBrdmr029ZG0euNd4hVWEPZyk9x0EPEIG5V6dc7OIiEUpXpxFC5vM399eCmVhz4ZlbUdG9SXGO9dlJpS6v7ikGhE24xqt-/s400/20200820_192917.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div>
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<i>firing became general all along the line as the Small-Platers tried to whittle-away at the shot companies before the enemy could get their powerful infantry formations into the fray</i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRyD1IuenFg6Ye-afmQh0v_SKws3EaM8aDO1FNWbxWwozEoOCdFmhzkgAHLqLZ2C-nz_LX0X0Z3kSwm7AHE91VVheSXmxLwMwXX2c9fjw1huC2kjleqTDNR8mbbGi9KlwciymhUbYuL7BP/s1600/20200820_192925.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRyD1IuenFg6Ye-afmQh0v_SKws3EaM8aDO1FNWbxWwozEoOCdFmhzkgAHLqLZ2C-nz_LX0X0Z3kSwm7AHE91VVheSXmxLwMwXX2c9fjw1huC2kjleqTDNR8mbbGi9KlwciymhUbYuL7BP/s400/20200820_192925.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div>
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<i>then Proper-Mealers also took advantage of their perponderance of Horse to send six regiments to the west to turn that flank as well, in reply the Small-Platers sent two regiments to slow them and prayed fervently for reinforcements</i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQuLGiuBKksKF6K949-WgsQYajbTdxKe7skjJED-UzYyNeX45B64JxjsrDIHAS7hom06mGc1BTfhctnaovkxmBeTRQ5zFyOXF2vjtFhb2aJHwF-FKgLlxQBncys2bQTrNLknsqHiM1af7K/s1600/20200820_195119.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQuLGiuBKksKF6K949-WgsQYajbTdxKe7skjJED-UzYyNeX45B64JxjsrDIHAS7hom06mGc1BTfhctnaovkxmBeTRQ5zFyOXF2vjtFhb2aJHwF-FKgLlxQBncys2bQTrNLknsqHiM1af7K/s400/20200820_195119.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div>
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<i>in the center the cannon were proving incapable of stopping the enemy infantry who closed rapidly, in the far west a welcome regiment of Small-Plater Mounted Arquebusiers arrived bringing the balance to only 2:1 in favor of the Proper-Mealers</i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitbVWQutOSCSA-pf1zIX4ULVrvV-HfcFT5zYMTNYmsCXQUBZ6cUxH4esua19oID0b5viUctgOPQN1LwxtEjN66936Sgox3fzaWatV2RQv1qnXtXFMrliUpmgSUCJJ-zHTUmo2vVEIwJVuZ/s1600/20200820_195131.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitbVWQutOSCSA-pf1zIX4ULVrvV-HfcFT5zYMTNYmsCXQUBZ6cUxH4esua19oID0b5viUctgOPQN1LwxtEjN66936Sgox3fzaWatV2RQv1qnXtXFMrliUpmgSUCJJ-zHTUmo2vVEIwJVuZ/s400/20200820_195131.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div>
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<i>the next turn saw equally welcome reinforcements arrive on the eastern flank as well, but they were badly strung out in road columns and would take a long time to make their presence felt</i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdIGl3Uwm81LoD7jM08sh5RZEgh9-ErMc39lJAGuUVgkaUwao2u78RmS4JpXtOyufOt-nErCar9h-6PI8h_iS9Ws4BXiqUgLxmkDcgYv-H88b2TMOILhZIyzSrbnEWp9mmXiRxv1tlWE6S/s1600/20200820_195135.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdIGl3Uwm81LoD7jM08sh5RZEgh9-ErMc39lJAGuUVgkaUwao2u78RmS4JpXtOyufOt-nErCar9h-6PI8h_iS9Ws4BXiqUgLxmkDcgYv-H88b2TMOILhZIyzSrbnEWp9mmXiRxv1tlWE6S/s400/20200820_195135.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div>
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<i>meanwhile, in the center, the wall of Proper-Mealer infantry advanced unhindered,</i></div>
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<i>at this point the two enemy/brothers, Hanz and Franz could see each other through the gunsmoke </i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGtygjpXvFnJ3SBk9uKUFjLnEIhpJo5tzlGLhI02gwz3EAMGj_r7z9lTS5shZgqcb7tNijvLFGzysdRZhDMLQ7_VlptzYdB3noCJNMwVffvkbAI45hWjLCqJCxCwhIPgVq7tAKLVuv3roX/s1600/20200820_195138.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGtygjpXvFnJ3SBk9uKUFjLnEIhpJo5tzlGLhI02gwz3EAMGj_r7z9lTS5shZgqcb7tNijvLFGzysdRZhDMLQ7_VlptzYdB3noCJNMwVffvkbAI45hWjLCqJCxCwhIPgVq7tAKLVuv3roX/s400/20200820_195138.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div>
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<i>despite punishing fire from the cannons the fearless Proper-Mealer infantry marched on </i></div>
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<i>in the west firing was continuous along the line</i></div>
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<i>the advantage here went to the Small-Platers </i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTHp3K_FpC2y6cVoxj_InljvW33o7YNBfIm9nLHLNX8frdapOPUDeMx_P91BswiF_C6wigWiWiMHp1GOLRxbJTsULYS_PP_Be4Ochg8PX09LtpQtvjbZTfKZ5lKB3YV2KoMndBEv_Gb1WV/s1600/20200820_202559.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTHp3K_FpC2y6cVoxj_InljvW33o7YNBfIm9nLHLNX8frdapOPUDeMx_P91BswiF_C6wigWiWiMHp1GOLRxbJTsULYS_PP_Be4Ochg8PX09LtpQtvjbZTfKZ5lKB3YV2KoMndBEv_Gb1WV/s400/20200820_202559.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div>
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<i>realizing that their flanking move was likely to be thwarted</i></div>
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<i> the Proper-Mealer cavalry engaged the slow-arriving Small-Plater Mounted Arquebusiers </i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrumaq8L71IcenA7nNpYOpzZkNdrpN7S-EsX6Ywcq6dKRNo1_DiH5-juJODKlQ-QLSfNKjxke91vC0OqxyNMuEwLzKVl7HEhSnQjRWtcAwWMxphKWaWlQNfd7XU3uOKOdc3Mf6vlTNx0yg/s1600/20200820_202602.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrumaq8L71IcenA7nNpYOpzZkNdrpN7S-EsX6Ywcq6dKRNo1_DiH5-juJODKlQ-QLSfNKjxke91vC0OqxyNMuEwLzKVl7HEhSnQjRWtcAwWMxphKWaWlQNfd7XU3uOKOdc3Mf6vlTNx0yg/s400/20200820_202602.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div>
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<i>in the Tiny Woods the lone Shot company traded barbs with opposing Mounted Arquebusiers, </i></div>
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<i>Shot and an infantry Battalion; only the cover of the woods saved them </i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZ5rrsQ4ixH_8AaGec4m36J9S9FPKCHRaLP0tJcOcLwWQQ28ygAhyq7-5CyEZ3QZT3-4wllD64QwtjRlJzG7PxiiGlul1AfeQu9YkFpEY0fEVYV6ujoROSDL7hZc6x3gCdMpqhEw1hkrIx/s1600/20200820_202610.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZ5rrsQ4ixH_8AaGec4m36J9S9FPKCHRaLP0tJcOcLwWQQ28ygAhyq7-5CyEZ3QZT3-4wllD64QwtjRlJzG7PxiiGlul1AfeQu9YkFpEY0fEVYV6ujoROSDL7hZc6x3gCdMpqhEw1hkrIx/s400/20200820_202610.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div>
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<i>accepting, and ignoring, fearsome fire from the two cannon the Proper-Mealer Foot stormed the redoubt and put their tormentors to the sword (or pike as it may be) this titanic effort left that battalion badly mauled, elsewhere the Proper-Mealer Foot moved into position for a push of pike</i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiV4WuxUnM2W_URMLz0MmOBk6VDEIOSihuM4EI8JE18pFuMt4A8eu9TTFo16kErwIfZUDdWLZnnstMqbIIDqP4r_j71WEUWL_YW3BbtOIRIj-Gio2P3ThC9erMgUlb6URl7Y-U8dfMHBc0q/s1600/20200820_205305.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiV4WuxUnM2W_URMLz0MmOBk6VDEIOSihuM4EI8JE18pFuMt4A8eu9TTFo16kErwIfZUDdWLZnnstMqbIIDqP4r_j71WEUWL_YW3BbtOIRIj-Gio2P3ThC9erMgUlb6URl7Y-U8dfMHBc0q/s400/20200820_205305.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div>
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<i>through a concentration of firepower (and some lucky dice) the reinforcing Proper-Mealer Mounted Arquebusiers managed to eliminate one of their opposing numbers and inflict some harm on the other</i></div>
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<i>they did not escape unscathed themselves </i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj68uhWADuWiRmlicTJUQOPjhjR1StMvuMa-IYl_rcW0tjyXoscCyN7k6AdqH_kPlzXw4-4xjN984ZdFSvdrjZt0PQFEGV0-znCp56htrdgu0FuhqAyaGEHLVVmoNbGTKqrC8RH-eH3d9bh/s1600/20200820_205308.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj68uhWADuWiRmlicTJUQOPjhjR1StMvuMa-IYl_rcW0tjyXoscCyN7k6AdqH_kPlzXw4-4xjN984ZdFSvdrjZt0PQFEGV0-znCp56htrdgu0FuhqAyaGEHLVVmoNbGTKqrC8RH-eH3d9bh/s400/20200820_205308.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div>
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<i>at the Tiny Woods the Proper-Mealer Foot grew tired of the sniping and charged directly into the woods to drive off the Shot company hiding therein, despite being disordered their numbers told and they shattered the Shot company; the hilltop position of the Small-Plater force was about to be well and truly flanked, throughout these actions both Hanz and Franz were in the thick of the fight, heroically inspiring their troops </i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjX2L7xwD95fZCvNMUCxliBgi8YW9NIe8kzqDLDXSpp80SwKCrPpnoBySh9hMTHOCTdjwXDh3mJU934QlQl-n8-taZT9ktl7wCbbTr6TsE2cUfZUWbRHOo_ppFcO5qN3haHfezPFtCPA5tL/s1600/20200820_205321.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjX2L7xwD95fZCvNMUCxliBgi8YW9NIe8kzqDLDXSpp80SwKCrPpnoBySh9hMTHOCTdjwXDh3mJU934QlQl-n8-taZT9ktl7wCbbTr6TsE2cUfZUWbRHOo_ppFcO5qN3haHfezPFtCPA5tL/s400/20200820_205321.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div>
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<i>far away to the west things were looking bad for the Small-Platers, reinforcements were tardy in their arriving and the position was in dire danger of collapse when, by a stroke of luck, the commander of the Proper-Mealer cuirassiers was killed in combat, with his falling the heretofore aggressive cuirassiers became sluggish and disjointed (explanatory note; under the Tercio rules once a brigadier is killed his troops have to pass a Discipline check every turn to follow orders for the balance of the game) </i></div>
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</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheqQjcustJfmuYo1889vTbfe_I_xJFlTJnPfQvAFtxICtuMGhmgsUT5FpmRD_DRNKhhDLXl8j8q7MZ9Xl6rXoFDvtEOgSBHaVNVl6GGJE0eJBRet8fxDIfWi7ywn7F_8PxLbQVBCh2dF1-/s1600/20200820_212237.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheqQjcustJfmuYo1889vTbfe_I_xJFlTJnPfQvAFtxICtuMGhmgsUT5FpmRD_DRNKhhDLXl8j8q7MZ9Xl6rXoFDvtEOgSBHaVNVl6GGJE0eJBRet8fxDIfWi7ywn7F_8PxLbQVBCh2dF1-/s400/20200820_212237.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div>
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<i>concentrated fire finally eliminated the Shot unit in the woods on the Long Hill leaving a lonely Proper-Mealer Foot unit as its only defender </i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhD2CAMPV9CLrHvceTfbnKllFc7RGHIYJ1OOncEyCjgYH2p_stV9ICkI5LkTGAXmW6NqHANp6XLnVit32Dpne2REphuIK-0OH3aCbT2_9aQzO3rrOSwMIMGFo8ngkMrno7pGLI5q47rSeQL/s1600/20200820_212242.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhD2CAMPV9CLrHvceTfbnKllFc7RGHIYJ1OOncEyCjgYH2p_stV9ICkI5LkTGAXmW6NqHANp6XLnVit32Dpne2REphuIK-0OH3aCbT2_9aQzO3rrOSwMIMGFo8ngkMrno7pGLI5q47rSeQL/s400/20200820_212242.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div>
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<i>but in the center things were looking better for the Proper-Mealer cause, taking advantage of their uphill position and the fact that they were shooting while standing stationary the Small-Plater Foot had successfully repelled both attacking Proper-Mealer infantry units, the flank on the other hand.....</i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnBdav-P4RJU-yG_4Js2sSbtvkKGUp9FvdPxzf8APaVnN3W8yGvpRJwNJuQCn1wbW8LHhfhdjmDz81vfDL9pbqX8n1F_xlC3V3XPVVrr7WNbtP9INHZ6JKAy-AGYsHoRF4GQ0M8wLUiR0S/s1600/20200820_212249.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnBdav-P4RJU-yG_4Js2sSbtvkKGUp9FvdPxzf8APaVnN3W8yGvpRJwNJuQCn1wbW8LHhfhdjmDz81vfDL9pbqX8n1F_xlC3V3XPVVrr7WNbtP9INHZ6JKAy-AGYsHoRF4GQ0M8wLUiR0S/s400/20200820_212249.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div>
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<i>away to the east the Small-Platers were gradually gaining the upper hand on the Big Hill</i></div>
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<i>and another reinforcement had showed up in the form of a Shot company </i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-Kdh437gGZeCqTG_AyP97Qrcws2GUmtfu32nipMlWzAjDKesDGWciLEg0aPIUnvR1fzYGBnEdExVuaXjgYnyq91zKnDsBkir_ev2PTyCDPvqNVJTMqbUnOSCU-wsdz17Pveqz_KlcIK7f/s1600/20200820_214347.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-Kdh437gGZeCqTG_AyP97Qrcws2GUmtfu32nipMlWzAjDKesDGWciLEg0aPIUnvR1fzYGBnEdExVuaXjgYnyq91zKnDsBkir_ev2PTyCDPvqNVJTMqbUnOSCU-wsdz17Pveqz_KlcIK7f/s400/20200820_214347.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div>
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<i>only the disruption caused by the Tiny Woods saved the </i></div>
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<i>Small-Platers from being taken in the flank on the next turn </i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjvSdThx6B044EV50IpufhrBHRf_wETjcZ8b0F67096n3BatCuWNGQjTDZigHDwBGY0PjzcD54YtHY0nCXUhcI0-loj-PaVMr8RmsgifL4y1u7Wute-cTiUZMEcpuVhDTQUjBw7BCYpZZz/s1600/20200820_214353.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjvSdThx6B044EV50IpufhrBHRf_wETjcZ8b0F67096n3BatCuWNGQjTDZigHDwBGY0PjzcD54YtHY0nCXUhcI0-loj-PaVMr8RmsgifL4y1u7Wute-cTiUZMEcpuVhDTQUjBw7BCYpZZz/s400/20200820_214353.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div>
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<i>while in the center the injured but still dangerous Proper-Mealer Foot</i></div>
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<i> gamely returned to the fight, driving one Small-Plater battalion back from the hilltop </i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-hhzpsMzHkRPRRdd7ur7ckPMrqbNtkqfet6cNunewcpGa-CLwMJwUlI4JJw7JpEHqO9qh-UHCCIIUv-iuegVdJGGdmRmGxLOn1Q_RfMpT_i7xdBmCVjGoadRPoGHv-kMX0v8k075p1iKW/s1600/20200820_214400.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-hhzpsMzHkRPRRdd7ur7ckPMrqbNtkqfet6cNunewcpGa-CLwMJwUlI4JJw7JpEHqO9qh-UHCCIIUv-iuegVdJGGdmRmGxLOn1Q_RfMpT_i7xdBmCVjGoadRPoGHv-kMX0v8k075p1iKW/s400/20200820_214400.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div>
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<i>as more Small-Plater cavalry slowly appeared in the east they were thrown</i></div>
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<i> directly into the fight to slow the advance of the Proper-Mealer Horse</i></div>
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<i>this is where the loss of the cuirassier commander was crucial, </i></div>
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<i>for two turns the cuirassier regiment on the road behind the </i></div>
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<i>Small-Plater Foot on the hill stood unmoving, awaiting orders from their long-dead leader </i></div>
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<i><br /></i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-pmpaUKZzkol7IXHIPjoSc4ES9Fojt5DSR-L2nbisUSCmkDRI3sIDz76uW9xioTCT93BWdVSASOVNeDvpk9L_VE50hBwymR1bqNBJvZUsKnFDIGvbZFij18jCyWPljiwv0nbPF7HtLaYj/s1600/20200820_221340.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-pmpaUKZzkol7IXHIPjoSc4ES9Fojt5DSR-L2nbisUSCmkDRI3sIDz76uW9xioTCT93BWdVSASOVNeDvpk9L_VE50hBwymR1bqNBJvZUsKnFDIGvbZFij18jCyWPljiwv0nbPF7HtLaYj/s400/20200820_221340.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div>
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<i>desperate to protect the rear of the embattled Foot on the Long Hill the Small-Plater Mounted Arquebusiers threw themselves at the enemy cuirassiers, they saved the Foot from a rear attack but were badly bloodied in the process, by this point both armies were beginning to look like punch-drunk boxers, still on their feet and swinging but increasingly unable to land a telling blow </i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpm9EGPiD5EMK99UyBH5v-p4nE9SzobAIyl2z_KF27zvBT0vt5ynyYDkaWD5D7paBYkJefPEOn7CQdLWuPgR8lMOWQVVn4nn7BJSIytdXrVRT59F6I9xZgIawPCSjf3ghzaoqN4mGZGpNQ/s1600/20200820_221346.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpm9EGPiD5EMK99UyBH5v-p4nE9SzobAIyl2z_KF27zvBT0vt5ynyYDkaWD5D7paBYkJefPEOn7CQdLWuPgR8lMOWQVVn4nn7BJSIytdXrVRT59F6I9xZgIawPCSjf3ghzaoqN4mGZGpNQ/s400/20200820_221346.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div>
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<i>in the next turn two critical events occurred, the Small-Platers won the initiative which allowed Hanz to turn his battalion to face the flanking attack and the remaining Small-Plater Foot delivered a volley that broke the spirit of the Proper-Mealer Foot to their front </i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1URyTTt4IxCe4lFAKcMvgEWoIe7JpbIWoTE8lYfbv1VilGpuwHkqQ5vaHn-iMkUw8LEOniXiOlaR_2kbiMuT06JzzfNzdDOxdRVxJDI_7k8Jnkq0VJ8nVOqOLXJxEk1Hj1-U_hVzcPUM0/s1600/20200820_221352.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1URyTTt4IxCe4lFAKcMvgEWoIe7JpbIWoTE8lYfbv1VilGpuwHkqQ5vaHn-iMkUw8LEOniXiOlaR_2kbiMuT06JzzfNzdDOxdRVxJDI_7k8Jnkq0VJ8nVOqOLXJxEk1Hj1-U_hVzcPUM0/s400/20200820_221352.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div>
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<i>to the further discomfiture of the Proper-Mealers the Small-Platers reinforcements continued to dribble onto the battlefield as another Shot unit joined the forces just as the combined firepower of three units of Mounted Arquebusiers drive off another Proper-Mealer Horse unit</i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhclIopa-C85SIOssOj6I_iQ9gcIEQ-VGUszob-VzRx8HLYhRccz978eC588EGa7jshc91mStt0Ts7UGPJWxeqpJ0vmzcSY7BFlLafhoC9A9G0ERWsRpd7pwiKol__CsEFkgjnM8myhX36l/s1600/20200820_223439.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhclIopa-C85SIOssOj6I_iQ9gcIEQ-VGUszob-VzRx8HLYhRccz978eC588EGa7jshc91mStt0Ts7UGPJWxeqpJ0vmzcSY7BFlLafhoC9A9G0ERWsRpd7pwiKol__CsEFkgjnM8myhX36l/s400/20200820_223439.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div>
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<i>the following turn saw Hanz lead his troops victoriously against the flanking battalion, driving it from the field of battle, this suddenly tipped the balance sharply in favor of the Small-Palters</i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3e-m5pwckK_0v9wRXDTU7vPoGFYS4PkS7BilwrYCYh85O5sCOhR4RlCBcPtMtCXqrHMkYAN4iwEUgN9Wd8R0Nc_uJ6SAqa0WhWAWYr-Gmr15n06bGimhm4ME0_1CSeMn5Z9kZX0xH85TC/s1600/20200820_223446.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3e-m5pwckK_0v9wRXDTU7vPoGFYS4PkS7BilwrYCYh85O5sCOhR4RlCBcPtMtCXqrHMkYAN4iwEUgN9Wd8R0Nc_uJ6SAqa0WhWAWYr-Gmr15n06bGimhm4ME0_1CSeMn5Z9kZX0xH85TC/s400/20200820_223446.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div>
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<i>the Middle Hill belonged to the Small-Platers once again, </i></div>
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<i>and most importantly there were no opposing troops to contest that effectively</i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg85KOpWimSQDbSP29BTs7u9ZT6Sf68zqdorq-YhhxkvCs-ITzwXNG7qZWGdxUgjI2t_qWkeYqZsU8yTMl_Zw9czfoB8_T0XX0Rf2NQ1qHkDBM79NlOcgv3Y-9n6ck8t6S9cAKH4WcdT0PQ/s1600/20200820_223455.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg85KOpWimSQDbSP29BTs7u9ZT6Sf68zqdorq-YhhxkvCs-ITzwXNG7qZWGdxUgjI2t_qWkeYqZsU8yTMl_Zw9czfoB8_T0XX0Rf2NQ1qHkDBM79NlOcgv3Y-9n6ck8t6S9cAKH4WcdT0PQ/s400/20200820_223455.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div>
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<i>in the east the Small-Platers had hung on by the thinnest of margins, </i></div>
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<i>trading space for time and rolling unusually lucky dice </i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpuR2ZV4d0tTYt_euQIWeZUCYvcUkElA01-41ZYXTm2Anjv1NJGSvy5v9DUxq_97bDjFD_kzKY-zceOsF4G24z_bbU1ztGBdMWN7ReI0FXioRhRDpKEcr4VkKwsY5Ayy92Zw6w1dTjv6P3/s1600/20200820_224822.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpuR2ZV4d0tTYt_euQIWeZUCYvcUkElA01-41ZYXTm2Anjv1NJGSvy5v9DUxq_97bDjFD_kzKY-zceOsF4G24z_bbU1ztGBdMWN7ReI0FXioRhRDpKEcr4VkKwsY5Ayy92Zw6w1dTjv6P3/s400/20200820_224822.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div>
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<i>at the end of the battle the Proper-Mealer left flank had been reduced</i></div>
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<i> to two</i> <i>Mounted Arquebusiers regiments and one rather shaky Foot unit</i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPg1DYNzj6oxQsYH23bSD4cBvGViffrUlD5DfdDTVeLMlMLBNXkh4xCHfVG22CxUrN43Cmgnm4bD-QHoycGdJu185jh8C3eXM0n6FSCVWMIQJljRDLBFvbd2IJeW0HyS9el5sHRjDweR3D/s1600/20200820_224831.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPg1DYNzj6oxQsYH23bSD4cBvGViffrUlD5DfdDTVeLMlMLBNXkh4xCHfVG22CxUrN43Cmgnm4bD-QHoycGdJu185jh8C3eXM0n6FSCVWMIQJljRDLBFvbd2IJeW0HyS9el5sHRjDweR3D/s400/20200820_224831.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div>
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<i>in the west the constant dribble of Small-Plater reinforcements had been just enough to slow the powerful flanking thrust of the Proper-Mealer Horse and the Foot had been able to (barely) hold onto Long Hill, the loss of the cuirassier commander was catastrophic for the Proper-Mealers who would have likely rolled up this flank several turns earlier had he survived </i></div>
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<i><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguNzLsnQyToTtr3JM4rHoeBOLOl6QXr-DtNvwmH8L87BNwfR8hylUCrnQVjncq_rt69vMdtSIliaTaj_YzEU5pdduIz3NZektocIUiaYxzI594fVZcGI4kQkWzCTUQeveijwtQIf_yjCsQ/s1600/20200820_224826.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguNzLsnQyToTtr3JM4rHoeBOLOl6QXr-DtNvwmH8L87BNwfR8hylUCrnQVjncq_rt69vMdtSIliaTaj_YzEU5pdduIz3NZektocIUiaYxzI594fVZcGI4kQkWzCTUQeveijwtQIf_yjCsQ/s400/20200820_224826.jpg" width="400" /> </a></i></div>
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<i>the center of the field was nearly vacant,</i></div>
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<i> tended to by two regiments of Small-Plater Mounted Arquebusiers</i></div>
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Duke Stephen looked upon the retiring Freedonian troops with satisfaction, the fight had been long and hard and he had been fearful of the outcome on several occasions, but Triumph had smiled on the arms of Ferndalia today. Through the clouds of smoke the young Hanz rode toward him, "See I told you that we would be victorious! I shall be king yet!" Stephen shook his head in amazement at the blood-spattered figure in front of him, "Your Majesty is injured?" he asked with concern. Hanz glanced at his bandaged limbs, "Just a nick, oh, and a bullet, and a bit of a pike....but nothing of consequence", he smiled, "This is a fearful thing we do, but I have never felt so alive as I do today!"</div>
Anton Ryzbakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07844552779982758219noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3523735026214294681.post-86560348266609902852020-08-10T08:27:00.000-07:002020-08-24T08:37:52.280-07:00The Hazards of High Office<div style="text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPYBT_Jz8CL8GsZut5LBdVE4pFu5sNVBEmVCtPJGrwCmKtc-3-ol9BIv_5yu5gWu9LJXntj4DaM7v_itPMKsWfyNoRjeAGhhFDLir9WozLVbJ7tDCMmkZEaNahXrSynRpRYD_xb0gbYEdA/s1600/duke.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="700" data-original-width="1050" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPYBT_Jz8CL8GsZut5LBdVE4pFu5sNVBEmVCtPJGrwCmKtc-3-ol9BIv_5yu5gWu9LJXntj4DaM7v_itPMKsWfyNoRjeAGhhFDLir9WozLVbJ7tDCMmkZEaNahXrSynRpRYD_xb0gbYEdA/s400/duke.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div>
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<i>Mankowski contemplates the loss of his ear </i></div>
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Igor Mankowski slumped backward into his chair as Peter the Famished stormed out of the King's Private Chambers bellowing for his lunch. The searing pain in his right ear meant two things; one good, one bad. Good, that the King had not shot him between the eyes (like the last Minister of War), the King rarely missed and would have reloaded if he had needed to! Bad, that his right ear would forever have to be hidden by his wig.<br />
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The guards came rushing in right after Peter had left but Mankowski waved them away and pressed his handkerchief to his profusely bleeding ear, "It is but a scratch!", he protested as they offered aid. <i>"I wonder if the remark about the Navy saved my life, or cost me my ear?"</i> he thought as he sat contemplating the map on the table before him. The near-death experience had sharply focused his mind and he resolved to stop trying to solve all of the problems at once, to concentrate on the most important issue; the conquest of the northern third of Vienee. Dreams of his own Dukedom once more danced through his head , but he forced those thoughts away and aimed his formidable intellect at the situation on the ground.<br />
Frankly it wasn't good. Frozonia was once again in revolt, they were a recurrent irritant but not a strategic issue. The Freedonian expedition into the north (doubtless aided by Boozonian collusion) aimed to detach the area around Gruyere and gift it back to Boozonia in an effort to spark continuing problems in the north, this was a significant issue but did not change the power balance in the short-term. "Let it burn, indeed", muttered the wounded Minister of War as he searched through the troop dispositions seeking a way to pour even more soldiers into the effort against the Gluttonian capital. The Navy was performing beyond expectations but were in no position to render aid to the current effort, perhaps they could conduct coastal raids to tie down Proper-Mealer resources. Alternately he could rely on them to guard the southern coast as he stripped the rich southeastern lands of troops to strengthen the forces near Vienee. Seeking a larger view he turned to the gigantic wall-map of the entire Epicurean continent that hung at the eastern end of the chamber.<br />
Mankowski stood there for some time, holding his kerchief against he bleeding ear, mentally calculating march-times and distances, food and fodder requirements, balancing risks and rewards when he suddenly realized what was actually going on inside the head of Louis the Ravenous. He gasped and his knees buckled as he grabbed a chair for support, "Sweet Mother of God! They mean to go for the Canal!<i><b> That</b></i> is the object of the Freedonian invasion!" He turned and shouted frantically for his secretary, the guards and the wine steward.<br />
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Note on the Cheddar-Gouda Canal:<br />
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The Great Cheddar-Gouda canal project had been one of Peter's favorite "secret" projects to improve his kingdom. Every summer for the last eight years the army held "maneuvers" on the great plain between the headwaters of the two rivers, these had consisted mostly of digging furiously at the line of the canal. The entire area was sealed off as a Military Preserve and the soldiers were told that they were conducting experiments in a new mode of fortification. Peter's ambition was to be able to move commerce (and his Navy) between the Middle Sea and the Northern Oceans, thus bypassing the middle-man position that Freedonia and Nylia held in the trade between the New Lands and the East. It would also allow him to move his navy between the seas saving him from having to maintain a fleet in the north and the south as had been done in ages past.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYb1Gkasg1Veai6ZLzjozLcSCURBOm3JLgWWZKf6qBk3hO43wqwIQXsb11yNpYeMPdA0afEYF6U0Ghe28IvEEBAzYmARQd_4lZ-yAgRfBp45Hvspo6NvpDnev1opp6X8VFUVehOfEselXi/s1600/Canal.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYb1Gkasg1Veai6ZLzjozLcSCURBOm3JLgWWZKf6qBk3hO43wqwIQXsb11yNpYeMPdA0afEYF6U0Ghe28IvEEBAzYmARQd_4lZ-yAgRfBp45Hvspo6NvpDnev1opp6X8VFUVehOfEselXi/s640/Canal.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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<br />Anton Ryzbakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07844552779982758219noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3523735026214294681.post-73375208237895125762020-07-31T22:30:00.000-07:002020-08-01T16:25:29.975-07:00Shadows of the Night, The Battle of the Blutiger Bach<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimdejYQhNx6lWJyIAEsx7_BqC7bCuh0sQHeVeomo7pgpUlsVjdA7spkfSJtXhpK898q14-IIIkmONi0lL4SNdYScXM7k43TN_wlG_RZrgNyax87uLoSbVqJdQl1_HVbdwilu8zjnSBEuGY/s1600/Blutig+Bach.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimdejYQhNx6lWJyIAEsx7_BqC7bCuh0sQHeVeomo7pgpUlsVjdA7spkfSJtXhpK898q14-IIIkmONi0lL4SNdYScXM7k43TN_wlG_RZrgNyax87uLoSbVqJdQl1_HVbdwilu8zjnSBEuGY/s640/Blutig+Bach.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"> Emmanuel
Costanza, Duke of Brie, looked with satisfaction as his troops drew up into formation. Turning to his aide-de-camp he smiled, "Did you enjoy your breakfast?" the youth nodded nervously, "That is well, for I'm afraid that we shall miss Lunch and are most likely to be late for Dinner. The enemy has claimed the heights and we will have our day's work set before us to drive them off" he motioned to the dark formations along the hilltop that the light of dawn was slowly revealing. "Have our Freedonian allies shown up?" he inquired.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"> "No, they are still hours away, your majesty", the aide-de-camp squinted into the murky darkness to the west, "They seem to lack a sense of urgency".</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"> The Duke leaned toward him with a conspiratorial grin, "Frankly I don't trust them and would be happy to claim this day without their help. They seem to think that the land they help us liberate will be theirs in the end", he urged his steed forward, "Let us examine the enemy's position more closely".</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiY7g_uKh7EQyzFg4oC7CseMf7NqUraktpOv65bn9c_WK_xfFBB7UGC-lQPHdJrEH1OgRHj1XriuLiDAm9sSqHFucnb9E3iM8OcqxFgp_zvP94JDpUqURjgMNAk17qMjzGw_C6ZeTEwN6fH/s1600/20200730_173214.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiY7g_uKh7EQyzFg4oC7CseMf7NqUraktpOv65bn9c_WK_xfFBB7UGC-lQPHdJrEH1OgRHj1XriuLiDAm9sSqHFucnb9E3iM8OcqxFgp_zvP94JDpUqURjgMNAk17qMjzGw_C6ZeTEwN6fH/s400/20200730_173214.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div>
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<i>the Small-Plater position, South is to the right, from left to right on the far side of the picture; </i></div>
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<i>a brigade of Gluttonian Mounted Arquebusiers, two units of Gluttonian Foot, a Gluttonian Medium Cannon, two units of Ferndalian Foot, two Ferndalian Shot units, a brigade of Ferndalian Mounted Arquebusiers </i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhC1SH0KmOXVDunHMVYuXaKGN5VBsUnkM9-1LkVhT2ZwPb4GjeZD58QYH65laz_4sMSp69-osl5I5IjT-BF58Gk6EH5tOifC2NRkX3POtqZDyVP31DNRSbrqE37TgYO04Ml3EA0FgtXBvJq/s1600/20200730_173222.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhC1SH0KmOXVDunHMVYuXaKGN5VBsUnkM9-1LkVhT2ZwPb4GjeZD58QYH65laz_4sMSp69-osl5I5IjT-BF58Gk6EH5tOifC2NRkX3POtqZDyVP31DNRSbrqE37TgYO04Ml3EA0FgtXBvJq/s400/20200730_173222.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div>
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<i>the Proper-Meal army, left to right; a brigade of Mounted Arquebusiers, a brigade of Cuirassiers, three units of Foot fronted by four units of Shot and a Mounted Arquebusiers brigade</i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUnE44K0dZJ4koAE7gnqw3jZRhVUgQ0kb6snk6NVLoixBPOdBSzJHnaorZrTKde8GQ-Tpz1sl0jFLXHK78JZPp-seiENdK3-p56Vjfg8Dsjb6XdeV6fMSqznkfoIK0uu30vlsZvFNi7hZq/s1600/20200730_192039.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUnE44K0dZJ4koAE7gnqw3jZRhVUgQ0kb6snk6NVLoixBPOdBSzJHnaorZrTKde8GQ-Tpz1sl0jFLXHK78JZPp-seiENdK3-p56Vjfg8Dsjb6XdeV6fMSqznkfoIK0uu30vlsZvFNi7hZq/s400/20200730_192039.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div>
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<i>opening moves, cavalry on both sides press forward as the Proper-Mealer Foot shift to the north, the Shot occupying the ditch astride the bridge, far to the north the Ferndalian Shot move to support the Gluttonian Mounted Arquebusiers</i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLNVjhW8Ea3O4GQ4s8pOfE37Rur6jR2PvwnlARBwnSRmLbi9mb9F95MsBHsZOZvLH8Cd9RUP0nV11BeUbDEDWpICmhM1WNJ4ma-QluwAiSg42CrzdEEm9-VCS7vmHax888TsyMAsW4NIck/s1600/20200730_192728.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLNVjhW8Ea3O4GQ4s8pOfE37Rur6jR2PvwnlARBwnSRmLbi9mb9F95MsBHsZOZvLH8Cd9RUP0nV11BeUbDEDWpICmhM1WNJ4ma-QluwAiSg42CrzdEEm9-VCS7vmHax888TsyMAsW4NIck/s400/20200730_192728.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div>
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<i>first honors went to the Gluttonian Small-Plater Mounted Arquebusiers as they moved west and opened fire on their opposite numbers</i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLaLesSfSXR9YXeU9Gorgm2DNnGSZZuumP4DjkbOuxMVT_FUE4jC1zz3lEEkb8WpIG3jKAWh0dls-v6ebnrjEsj8nlFAgDooV984ybTWAj71sXH7SrgEYNdifA14kkn-qb1knDMtY8Qov3/s1600/20200730_193905.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLaLesSfSXR9YXeU9Gorgm2DNnGSZZuumP4DjkbOuxMVT_FUE4jC1zz3lEEkb8WpIG3jKAWh0dls-v6ebnrjEsj8nlFAgDooV984ybTWAj71sXH7SrgEYNdifA14kkn-qb1knDMtY8Qov3/s400/20200730_193905.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div>
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<i>but very soon the northern end of the battlefield became a large swirling cavalry skirmish, the Proper-Mealer Foot continued moving northward as the Shot marched up the Blutiger Bach stream</i></div>
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<i>to the south a very evenly matched skirmish developed between the opposing units of Mounted Arquebusiers</i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUDq_KLdur26xwgh-A36WsxFiwa73M-7KAAzPGl24t3nmv-LSUmof49QrQMO04egp_bI6yk_7ctiP_986zmXW5L71Uj4fLUdt5Ua3I2VmsyLq9y0G2NpixGLWM4ITUYALQN0FAiWk9U7qS/s1600/20200730_193916.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUDq_KLdur26xwgh-A36WsxFiwa73M-7KAAzPGl24t3nmv-LSUmof49QrQMO04egp_bI6yk_7ctiP_986zmXW5L71Uj4fLUdt5Ua3I2VmsyLq9y0G2NpixGLWM4ITUYALQN0FAiWk9U7qS/s400/20200730_193916.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div>
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<i>the Small-Plater Mounted Arquebusiers, ably supported by their allied Shot units, </i></div>
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<i>scored many hits in the early firefights </i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5FeDylf357FFEfLEeCeV-0Hz9TM6y3mpNz-hAWhEg4Vbp4u0g2WUpZX9tN-t7Mw5P5LTkPJBxHrks1VzlBvc9aTMYtZ5Pe3CS58EmIBKblIKs3_DsHkawJTF89Z4n6CVyQ5qG66ncNc-Z/s1600/20200730_200518.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5FeDylf357FFEfLEeCeV-0Hz9TM6y3mpNz-hAWhEg4Vbp4u0g2WUpZX9tN-t7Mw5P5LTkPJBxHrks1VzlBvc9aTMYtZ5Pe3CS58EmIBKblIKs3_DsHkawJTF89Z4n6CVyQ5qG66ncNc-Z/s400/20200730_200518.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div>
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<i>but, inexorably, the weight of fire and the advantage of numbers saw the Proper-Mealers</i></div>
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<i> push the Small-Platers back toward the stream; </i></div>
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<i>seeing the flank of the enemy was too much for the Ferndalain Foot and they descended the hill to engage the Shot in the weed-choked gully of the Blutiger Bach</i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjWowRa7xzw5_Y_DSAxogUHs8g7qQZT5XcdkoirxpuPf83EsClXYl90ehteIgIJ7swxdgqjsMT7e7fLRCgnEaCTJG-vMt9anEhfyOSAi07lX55d_dlLnZjRI5t_iNlgzqDfSuo-RewcOYS/s1600/20200730_200522.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjWowRa7xzw5_Y_DSAxogUHs8g7qQZT5XcdkoirxpuPf83EsClXYl90ehteIgIJ7swxdgqjsMT7e7fLRCgnEaCTJG-vMt9anEhfyOSAi07lX55d_dlLnZjRI5t_iNlgzqDfSuo-RewcOYS/s400/20200730_200522.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div>
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<i>while to the south the Proper-Mealer Mounted Arquebusiers pressed thier opposite numbers closely only to find the advantage shifting away from them</i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPKz8ZFFDcxiZOdVRi6KkcBcdCl7Ldzch1B-dUhVx1B6k57nH2BGiMAK9QskACyWDV8TSMjMQdLpAO6awqTw7aF826ty6G4LSelH05JrFkoubr0zsqORIvKlgsHqJ7lBEoboJELti5nwe3/s1600/20200730_202636.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPKz8ZFFDcxiZOdVRi6KkcBcdCl7Ldzch1B-dUhVx1B6k57nH2BGiMAK9QskACyWDV8TSMjMQdLpAO6awqTw7aF826ty6G4LSelH05JrFkoubr0zsqORIvKlgsHqJ7lBEoboJELti5nwe3/s400/20200730_202636.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div>
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<i>seeing that the Proper-Mealer Horse were no longer in need of their help</i></div>
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<i> the Foot turned to face the onrushing Ferndalain infantry </i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhqp67bbgrZoh90m1qiCgOYBlzbQOvT_rGvo_HGdKNpIFNy3QNXSrrSrN8BepSU4csE6zRGPwzm8O5cG3Ney8AqfScStL8EkaXgoFUH1DgHGkt7h3TnpwkuaGB9xDiLKHWaJ_h0ynJwP5g/s1600/20200730_202642.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhqp67bbgrZoh90m1qiCgOYBlzbQOvT_rGvo_HGdKNpIFNy3QNXSrrSrN8BepSU4csE6zRGPwzm8O5cG3Ney8AqfScStL8EkaXgoFUH1DgHGkt7h3TnpwkuaGB9xDiLKHWaJ_h0ynJwP5g/s400/20200730_202642.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div>
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<i>in the south things had turned to favor the Small-Platers, the Mounted Arquebusiers were wining the skirmish and the Foot were rapidly advancing to discomfit the Proper-Mealers advance</i> </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivysHbdBmFqwOoU08-M4sdBI0T-TEZU-QpbQRgwLEL6nbyvflEbU9RiVhu7vo81S6VfDZ-iQbkioOeig_loWudHZcEVaugDJjK5kv4VIEsRDPwqJlqGXdEZB5zV_4l3p3HJwzY4lYfCDm-/s1600/20200730_202653.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivysHbdBmFqwOoU08-M4sdBI0T-TEZU-QpbQRgwLEL6nbyvflEbU9RiVhu7vo81S6VfDZ-iQbkioOeig_loWudHZcEVaugDJjK5kv4VIEsRDPwqJlqGXdEZB5zV_4l3p3HJwzY4lYfCDm-/s400/20200730_202653.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div>
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<i>to the north the firefight between the opposing Horse was shifting to favor the Proper-Mealers and they began to press the enemy back across the stream </i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_Xr55FGi8vna5U0TqWDCy2JqEfsfrG3ZjCcWSNPKGWGNFPLZi7bOi2XcyuED3qrWCEzKEbylHn5eFhU7J09j8UB2P_Fyf0Y1wVdk0b-DsoVtRfkxZ4XxWHSqru-3D1lRj85jMwqh4xnRM/s1600/20200730_205356.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_Xr55FGi8vna5U0TqWDCy2JqEfsfrG3ZjCcWSNPKGWGNFPLZi7bOi2XcyuED3qrWCEzKEbylHn5eFhU7J09j8UB2P_Fyf0Y1wVdk0b-DsoVtRfkxZ4XxWHSqru-3D1lRj85jMwqh4xnRM/s640/20200730_205356.jpg" width="360" /> </a></div>
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<i>while in the south the Proper-Mealer Mounted Arquebusiers were rapidly losing the skirmish </i></div>
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<i>and were in danger of exposing the entire southern flank of the Proper-Mealer army</i></div>
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</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg86OQh88y1b8-_gQjbRB3Ro8bXOSQsIRM8HhMapA2HRWU_z-7dhvZnLiy2jGGCgsPqPS96yCdyYHTAMdlYkBq0yTUEisRuOEVdq6MbVwe8ka9tNeYK5He3UNVT71lpqErb26RqoCn1ndSA/s1600/20200730_205410.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg86OQh88y1b8-_gQjbRB3Ro8bXOSQsIRM8HhMapA2HRWU_z-7dhvZnLiy2jGGCgsPqPS96yCdyYHTAMdlYkBq0yTUEisRuOEVdq6MbVwe8ka9tNeYK5He3UNVT71lpqErb26RqoCn1ndSA/s400/20200730_205410.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div>
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<i>unsupported by their Gluttonian allies the brazen Ferndalian Foot</i></div>
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<i> threw themselves at an enemy force three times their size,</i></div>
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<i>action was now general all along the line</i> </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjO8GdfE0vaB7qDQC-l7JVHZ1-uUZ-6O9jtuc2R_WHvbwe0ZDRhfhxAx3NIym3g76xRLKcvich8LlC-JOcbu6nJyo6UCNw8O3Md6UkvIezLhxRCsCYMjUzOseXfElwR8b3l0Aie0t8KqXyv/s1600/20200730_205414.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjO8GdfE0vaB7qDQC-l7JVHZ1-uUZ-6O9jtuc2R_WHvbwe0ZDRhfhxAx3NIym3g76xRLKcvich8LlC-JOcbu6nJyo6UCNw8O3Md6UkvIezLhxRCsCYMjUzOseXfElwR8b3l0Aie0t8KqXyv/s400/20200730_205414.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div>
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<i>despite the disordering terrain and taking a pounding from the fire of the Small-Platers the bold brigades of Proper-Mealer cavalry forced a passage through the gully of the Blutiger Bach and gained a purchase on the far bank </i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBqMVSPk_Q39S0oVIqLMgPBmT3hNwNYpb1eIiaronZ7hQ_y4MGUC3RrjngSoSnD1NLPm4czrvM5d0aFWX1rFyUE6EwwtG4xa1FWg0Bl4KtH_oEuAdx3vcNfwWKBxYDwJ5qThURDylSGbRq/s1600/20200730_212349.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBqMVSPk_Q39S0oVIqLMgPBmT3hNwNYpb1eIiaronZ7hQ_y4MGUC3RrjngSoSnD1NLPm4czrvM5d0aFWX1rFyUE6EwwtG4xa1FWg0Bl4KtH_oEuAdx3vcNfwWKBxYDwJ5qThURDylSGbRq/s640/20200730_212349.jpg" width="360" /> </a></div>
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<i>while to the south the Proper-Mealers were desperately reorganizing </i></div>
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<i>as they were on the brink of complete collapse </i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwTTrSnKrdFNlVAp9CK4xr8GGCLiu_n2-nIeYotTLjP7LAPVm_k-upCGujsKq7yFvGdyKMkGHizooTBrzMXh3-k7ORZRDLRu38ptU8xDbbCkeaJMv2Uulf-Lk5X-WgD0qNLEr5NdSXIazp/s1600/20200730_212353.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwTTrSnKrdFNlVAp9CK4xr8GGCLiu_n2-nIeYotTLjP7LAPVm_k-upCGujsKq7yFvGdyKMkGHizooTBrzMXh3-k7ORZRDLRu38ptU8xDbbCkeaJMv2Uulf-Lk5X-WgD0qNLEr5NdSXIazp/s400/20200730_212353.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div>
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<i>back at the bridge the fearsome onslaught of the Ferndalian Foot swept the ravine clear and gained the far bank, driving all before them, a brutal short-range firefight developed as they reorganized</i></div>
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<i><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYKePQ-kQU_UwQMjrRPouE8RSRHtrsnL9iFQ6_VU_5lcZugf5jcbhIcVf4jj-zBom7SdiyX53IwqPY7hKp22T28cr_VW4z4qrXH9bjHU_4c_Pb6AEkIN7K6tvZPUADDO4FSEkBBEHPVc1j/s1600/20200730_212358.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYKePQ-kQU_UwQMjrRPouE8RSRHtrsnL9iFQ6_VU_5lcZugf5jcbhIcVf4jj-zBom7SdiyX53IwqPY7hKp22T28cr_VW4z4qrXH9bjHU_4c_Pb6AEkIN7K6tvZPUADDO4FSEkBBEHPVc1j/s400/20200730_212358.jpg" width="400" /> </a></i></div>
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<i>belatedly the Gluttonian Small-Platers sent one of their Foot units</i></div>
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<i> to assist the Ferndalians struggling to cross the stream</i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAndwB6ma-HbjnUw6hzqTdHHHMVSsMDBVBMtAkGSf83TMyH2_Imt8XVhlhTp4JJ_nTC6EHKlKEzOqx42rnULrOqf3ceOPrUk9iGERFVogJAIF7rd-omOk-6MfgyO1yEalccvgI8xPJOlwz/s1600/20200730_212404.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAndwB6ma-HbjnUw6hzqTdHHHMVSsMDBVBMtAkGSf83TMyH2_Imt8XVhlhTp4JJ_nTC6EHKlKEzOqx42rnULrOqf3ceOPrUk9iGERFVogJAIF7rd-omOk-6MfgyO1yEalccvgI8xPJOlwz/s400/20200730_212404.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div>
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<i>but the Proper-Mealers were gaining control of the space on the northern end of the battlefield as the Horse continued to press the Gluttonian Mounted Arquebusiers back</i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBQZ0euAbBUr8GXO-Vissmai7i517VfADI6wnNNPPIV-O9UNB4H5ifFyTEZCCe3J2m6-VUa7b4hA-1QiunIuJwMi5x2rH1Se5cl9QLigve2n0ZfiBhAfqWr08Wt9CYHmQpoBlQZhVMtqHK/s1600/20200730_212407.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBQZ0euAbBUr8GXO-Vissmai7i517VfADI6wnNNPPIV-O9UNB4H5ifFyTEZCCe3J2m6-VUa7b4hA-1QiunIuJwMi5x2rH1Se5cl9QLigve2n0ZfiBhAfqWr08Wt9CYHmQpoBlQZhVMtqHK/s400/20200730_212407.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div>
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<i>in the center the battle had turned into a bloody brawl that choked the soldiers with clouds of smoke and choked the stream with corpses </i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGOe1s6vVdoFMQ7WwtPIKFgmPcuxYRmWnuaU0CBdftWBtdcPvEGhus4PxOgHIdne5k8xSeNI2UCsM2N1gqLNm0Hjg1LI4P2Tdsa2Qe4cvHNQYszrgHiHNvKEm4FyuFezD2v3VjOT30sq5x/s1600/20200730_214702.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGOe1s6vVdoFMQ7WwtPIKFgmPcuxYRmWnuaU0CBdftWBtdcPvEGhus4PxOgHIdne5k8xSeNI2UCsM2N1gqLNm0Hjg1LI4P2Tdsa2Qe4cvHNQYszrgHiHNvKEm4FyuFezD2v3VjOT30sq5x/s640/20200730_214702.jpg" width="360" /> </a></div>
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<i>only by the narrowest margins did the Proper Mealer Mounted Arquebusiers </i></div>
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<i>hold on against the Ferndalian cavalry </i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKgDWk0KqjdFnUseCp6l3gNhGqChSify-PE5qu2Xk06iiQH-78wQWTZ5IEELTKK2y3l9PqS3FesdhCKPqSyhZ6UwK3_sFGbI9QukmG_XltnTuPaHZFy_0mdB53sjElOmHY-cpC29PKIy7l/s1600/20200730_214708.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKgDWk0KqjdFnUseCp6l3gNhGqChSify-PE5qu2Xk06iiQH-78wQWTZ5IEELTKK2y3l9PqS3FesdhCKPqSyhZ6UwK3_sFGbI9QukmG_XltnTuPaHZFy_0mdB53sjElOmHY-cpC29PKIy7l/s640/20200730_214708.jpg" width="360" /> </a></div>
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<i>in the center the weight of numbers was beginning to tell against the Ferndalain troopers </i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDH0W7XZJMbht9gd-0jJtgmu6XsNLctT6VgqR9ZdpWrISTbaNNsJXKvmK61I4F2eOf6purmH1vUgLOtvP4UsHtyFXYLwAiMmtMUWxwN4XILZ8T69y16T0iCDvsF58o7ROGAz5-QAoonhrl/s1600/20200730_214713.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDH0W7XZJMbht9gd-0jJtgmu6XsNLctT6VgqR9ZdpWrISTbaNNsJXKvmK61I4F2eOf6purmH1vUgLOtvP4UsHtyFXYLwAiMmtMUWxwN4XILZ8T69y16T0iCDvsF58o7ROGAz5-QAoonhrl/s400/20200730_214713.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div>
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<i>and to the north the Proper-Mealer horse were gaining full mastery of the battlespace </i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8CRZAaxlcrKa0RrZbx7sw-6iQNYCAnJrg0eJgcIlck-Ju2bnCizUReWnMjd8oRZHDe01-UMW9kxy89IthJhtnlqzZ2CBFPM7ThpcQfVRUNeQWWIkn_AgtzSxcILr8kdHKnmnrzQFKCYJY/s1600/20200730_214717.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8CRZAaxlcrKa0RrZbx7sw-6iQNYCAnJrg0eJgcIlck-Ju2bnCizUReWnMjd8oRZHDe01-UMW9kxy89IthJhtnlqzZ2CBFPM7ThpcQfVRUNeQWWIkn_AgtzSxcILr8kdHKnmnrzQFKCYJY/s400/20200730_214717.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div>
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<i>the tide was turning in the favor of the Proper-Mealers </i></div>
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<i>even far to the south the</i> <i>Mounted Arquebusiers of the Proper-Mealers steadied their line </i></div>
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<i>and held off the Ferndalains</i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEif_jdmbE8Z9gLKFjU6VFzYgyz49vgFTzHAomSiXj1tMeVivDjX2HegmZO8Lqi6vpFUl_ZSrs6hXQgUnBiHVqzFa1z9FwvgnCKmWl_z0tZy9ucjAfDYZKROveADZuVtIDt90KhLcNceaHPl/s1600/20200730_220752.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEif_jdmbE8Z9gLKFjU6VFzYgyz49vgFTzHAomSiXj1tMeVivDjX2HegmZO8Lqi6vpFUl_ZSrs6hXQgUnBiHVqzFa1z9FwvgnCKmWl_z0tZy9ucjAfDYZKROveADZuVtIDt90KhLcNceaHPl/s640/20200730_220752.jpg" width="360" /> </a></div>
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<i>heavily engaged to their front the Small-Plater Foot did not see the Proper-Mealer Horse </i></div>
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<i>turning their flank and gaining a position to their rear</i></div>
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<i>surrounded on the hilltop the Gluttonian Small-Plater Foot nervously considered</i></div>
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<i> their chances against the flood-tide of Proper-Mealer Horse</i></div>
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<i>the gunners resolutely refused to contemplate surrender and died to a man for their courage </i></div>
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<i>trying to gain space to help the now-endangered Foot the Small-Plater</i> <i>Mounted Arquebusiers broke contact with the Proper-Mealer cavalry</i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEio80GvhrbhbXf7AhIuYlxeRbKh-UJ5Po3x5t5AyXsUEsh1Sp3hQN0fblEDciP1PHu2RqzKlhnfDgpD5ZPqQZg9CSYKj4-IZ0-je1up0SWJ_OsNahjrk3QsOkubQIokBEvYzN15aKEXd40t/s1600/20200730_222812.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEio80GvhrbhbXf7AhIuYlxeRbKh-UJ5Po3x5t5AyXsUEsh1Sp3hQN0fblEDciP1PHu2RqzKlhnfDgpD5ZPqQZg9CSYKj4-IZ0-je1up0SWJ_OsNahjrk3QsOkubQIokBEvYzN15aKEXd40t/s400/20200730_222812.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div>
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<i>all along the body-choked stream of the Blutiger Bach the Proper-Mealer Foot pressed forward driving the Small-Plater Foot into the open and at the mercy of the Horse</i></div>
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<i>as the sun set the Ferndalain Foot fled, covered by the efforts of their</i> <i>Mounted Arquebusiers, while the Gluttoniain Small-Platers decided that dying over a choice of repast seemed a poor choice indeed, they laid down their arms and held up their mess kits in the traditional Epicurean display of surrender</i></div>
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Peter spread his hands out on the maps and sighed, "Explain to me again why I am not the master of this accursed town" he said slowly with a dramatically menacing tone. He raised his eyes to look at his Minister of War.<br />
Igor Mankowski felt a chill run down his spine, the next few moments could well spell the end of his thirty-year career in the service of the House of Whey, "Sire, it has just been a setback, the town is still under siege and our army is recovering inside the Lines of Contravallation. The Proper-Mealers suffered heavily and have stripped the rest of Gluttonia bare to press us in the north, Besides, the losses fell most heavily upon the Gluttonian Small-Platers and not upon our soldiers".<br />
Peter slowly pushed his chair back from the map-table, "Well, there is some small comfort in the thought that at least they fought for their cause", his voice dripping with icy sarcasm, "I hear that there was a mass surrender, it was confined to the Gluttonians, I trust?"<br />
Mankowski stiffened, "Our troops fought heroically, individuals may have been captured but none of our units surrendered", he replied, hoping that his King did not ask him if any of their troops had run from the fight. "The perfidious Gluttonians downed pike even though sunset was well upon them and they could have gotten away in the dark", he stated; not mentioning that the Gluttonians had been left behind when the Ferndalians had fled from the battlefield. "The siege continues unabated and the Proper-Mealers lack the artillery to assault our lines".<br />
"So, let me sum up our situation, and feel free to correct me if I misstate any salient points" Peter said as he clasped his hands behind his back, "First we have the Freedonians marching happily through supposedly neutral Boozonia and invading our northern provinces; second, the endlessly tumultuous Frozonians have once more risen in revolt against our throne; third, our Gluttonian allies won't fight for the King that they have proclaimed leaving the heaving lifting for us; fourth, the "lightning -strike" to capture Vienee has turned into a slow-motion siege", he paused and turned to his War Minister, "Have I missed anything?"<br />
"N-n-no, your Majesty." Mankowski stammered like a chastened schoolboy as he stood terrified at the sight of his King absentmindedly touching the ornate pistol he wore on his belt and remembering the fate of his predecessor. "The Navy is doing very well" he added lamely.<br />
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The Guardians of The Portal were startled to hear a loud report of a pistol come from the King's Private Chamber moments before the doors were flung open and Peter the Famished stormed out and down the hall shouting for his lunch..........<br />
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<br />Anton Ryzbakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07844552779982758219noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3523735026214294681.post-53020820339559648712020-07-21T22:02:00.000-07:002020-07-21T22:03:00.116-07:00Let It Burn!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqU8S9sWV3fmyBj1_y1GiPMT3PRsKsm9_n0Co6TKaWZcQ3dr-KxQvaTiPD9CXjZt_qQJluoLY0QW5n1WBcP_Yvn-M_fl8IC3GGN6OVDmOmwAcKn8Ve9rRqcMEBAhk6aYBk71t21CRt9xDM/s1600/fern+1620.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqU8S9sWV3fmyBj1_y1GiPMT3PRsKsm9_n0Co6TKaWZcQ3dr-KxQvaTiPD9CXjZt_qQJluoLY0QW5n1WBcP_Yvn-M_fl8IC3GGN6OVDmOmwAcKn8Ve9rRqcMEBAhk6aYBk71t21CRt9xDM/s640/fern+1620.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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<i>the Ferndalian plan for 1620 </i></div>
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Disgusted with his ministers and the failures of his Intelligence services Peter the Famished pounded his fist on the table and shouted once more, "Damn the North! Let It Burn! We have advanced thus far and I will not be distracted by the Freedonian adventurers and the turbulent Frozonians. After we capture the capital we can mop up those fools." He looked up at the cowering courtiers and asked in a darkly threatening tone, "Do any of you have something worthwhile to tell me?". The Minister of War exchanged glances with the Finance Minister, "Well , Your Majesty, I have good news from the west". Peter leaned back in his chair smiling vicously, "Do tell, my faithful servant", he enjoined.<br />
Igor Mankowski had served as Peter's Minister of War long enough to have learned that it was best to lead with the bad news. He had let the others broach the subject of the Frozonian atrocities and the failure of Boozonia to keep the Freedonians out of their lands before he began his dissertation. "Your Highness knows of the attack on the bridge of boats, a surprise to say the least. But meaningless in the larger picture as we had already resupplied the portion of the capital that the Small-Platers control. The attack stripped out a significant portion of the garrison of the northern third of the capital, it is now held by a skeleton force and we will likely be able to capture it by assault instead of a lengthy siege". He unrolled a large map across the table showing in detail the area around the Gluttonian capital, "Their infantry fled downriver in the pontoons, their cavalry is scattered to the winds while their Freedonian allies wander the swamps of our northern provinces"<br />
Peter held up his hand, Mankowski instinctively paused, "How long before the Proper Mealers can organize a response?" the King queried.<br />
"Given the distances they will need to march, three to five weeks", Mankowski's index finger stabbed the map at the location of the Gluttonian Proper Mealer winter quarters, "They are badly out of place, do doubt expecting that their friends northern adventure would keep you distracted".<br />
The King leaned forward, his eyes narrowing as he traced the path of the roads to the capital, "Deliver me unto that city and I will make you Duke of all the lands that fall to our swords this year" his voice was like the purr of a beast of prey. He leaned back in his chair, "Now go! Deliver me victories! I need to be freed of this lunatic Prince who has been wandering my palace; get him a throne of his own!"<br />
Minister of War Mankowski smiled as he walked down the hall to his office, "<i>Duke eh? Of all the lands that fall to our sword?</i>" he thought as he walked into his private chambers and looked at the wall map with the dispositions of the Ferndalian armies, "<i>Well then, I will be almost a King myself</i>, <i>and Hanz will be Emperor of nothing" </i>he laughed quietly to himself then whispered, "Emperor Igor Mankowski The First".........<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAX2Z65e1F5sLEecm3Bdj78SBHfr92-qMb6C0cHzvziMEmYps_EGbl3fwAtI_tR1dbwGr1acR0A3o4hyphenhyphenNZEOECeLpozgCjd6A5GSNAhQqommIRJ9BOo-N40FKrTJTXioEMukcr1s0UHrpA/s1600/Mankowski%2527s+Plan.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAX2Z65e1F5sLEecm3Bdj78SBHfr92-qMb6C0cHzvziMEmYps_EGbl3fwAtI_tR1dbwGr1acR0A3o4hyphenhyphenNZEOECeLpozgCjd6A5GSNAhQqommIRJ9BOo-N40FKrTJTXioEMukcr1s0UHrpA/s640/Mankowski%2527s+Plan.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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<i>the (proposed) Grand Duchy of Mankowski</i></div>
Anton Ryzbakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07844552779982758219noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3523735026214294681.post-46935383399449092262020-07-21T14:38:00.003-07:002020-07-21T14:42:48.878-07:00Nowhere To Run.......The Great Raid on Camembert<br />
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Tadeusz Podolski looked up from the document that he was reading and squinted at his brother, Krzysztof, "Are you sure of this?" he asked, his voice loaded with anticipation. Krzysztof smiled, "Yes, we found that in a local post office just a day ago". The document in question was a invitation to a local Ferndalian noble to attend a Grand Cotillion at the Summer Palace of Peter the Famished on the 23rd of July, Anno Domini 1620 in Camembert. "But we have only a week to get there", Tadeusz worried. Krzysztof patted him on the shoulder, "We are just over 120 versts away, three days journey without tiring the horses and we can capture the oppressor himself. Think of the fame! Think of the freedom! Think of the prestige! Frozonia will be forever independent, our father's dream will at last become true". </div>
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Tadeusz felt his pulse quicken at the thought but, ever the cautious planner, he unrolled a map of northern Ferndalia, "Show me again your proposed route". As his brother pointed out the plan of action and described the different inbound and return trips he felt the confidence grow in his mind. "Take the whole army except the levies, we will make a great show of activity with the Husarska trainees along the northern approaches to distract Ferndalians. Return victorious!" He reached out and they shook hands, "For Father!" he proclaimed, "For Frozonia" he brother returned.</div>
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<i>Five days later............ </i><br />
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"That can't be right! Frozonia has no Tercios and are sworn enemies of the Proper Meal faction in Gluttonia! Who would be such a traitor as to serve the King of Ferndalia?" Krzysztof roared. "Keep the carts moving, we will see if they are made of stern enough stuff to face the Husarska!" he ordered as he raced to the head of the column. Already hounded by Ferndalian troops from both flanks and the rear Krzysztof had no need of further bad news This expedition had already been a disappointment when they had found that Peter the Famished had not yet arrived at his Summer Palace due to a resurgence of the Plague. A disappointment only salved by the hijacking of two of Peter's most prized collections; his complete collection of Wolfgang Puck Signature Series cookware <i> </i>and the only complete collection of autographed Julia Child cookbooks known to man. That, and the burning to the ground of the Palace and all of its outbuildings. Krzysztof gave orders as he passed that the Husarska should form up and be ready to charge. </div>
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As he passed through the swirl of light cavalry scouting to the front of the column he spied the infantry formation ahead of them. A compact block of densely packed pikemen surrounded by musketeers. It sat neatly tucked into the only pass in the Camembert Hills that would allow a wagon train to cross. This was like a week of bad news all packed into a single moment. Not in living memory had a Tercio been broken by cavalry, and almost all of Krzysztof's troops were horse. He turned and rode back along the line issuing orders and marshaling his men.</div>
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<i>the Frozonian army, en-route home with the captured Wolfgang Puck Signature Series Complete Collection of cookware and the only complete collection of autographed Julia Child cookbooks known to man, encounters a problem</i></div>
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<i>East is to the right, north to the top, west to the left and south to the bottom </i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEib_jpcEfymPtR9a9pNOjWxjva9XjhAZDOm0i_LonFMM9C9fJ4hT97DdoaMQaaBiiIVsmWdcRsk9N1fOM-zjBYA8noIZmoJTUC_OCuwHaxqH8Tn_TGY8efNGpx2W90EmgLBD4ywwLZ8xvOI/s1600/20200716_181719.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEib_jpcEfymPtR9a9pNOjWxjva9XjhAZDOm0i_LonFMM9C9fJ4hT97DdoaMQaaBiiIVsmWdcRsk9N1fOM-zjBYA8noIZmoJTUC_OCuwHaxqH8Tn_TGY8efNGpx2W90EmgLBD4ywwLZ8xvOI/s400/20200716_181719.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div>
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<i>it certainly looks like a Tercio </i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRAqcjhQO_jx5YEsCw3Lm3PtwzNB-T5AfG0qx1JFvLYo9kknIIrGlCEm8M3lUoK6i4XEIDIPkAoQEEQ1itfwGpYhhijVFVseYM0dSTfK2gCK-aMhGaxC56NWudRqRVXEl8CQMmlQnHLqcH/s1600/20200716_181725.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRAqcjhQO_jx5YEsCw3Lm3PtwzNB-T5AfG0qx1JFvLYo9kknIIrGlCEm8M3lUoK6i4XEIDIPkAoQEEQ1itfwGpYhhijVFVseYM0dSTfK2gCK-aMhGaxC56NWudRqRVXEl8CQMmlQnHLqcH/s400/20200716_181725.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div>
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<i>smells like one too!</i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOuqwu2X3CmHSAnXBZ-qdwJW-wI3HM2nV0B-__qvQqILb1doN6DcTgzIzxURIdLp1f3_e9jBhyetsm8PaAy4twZLO_hp3zvyTiksT02nBQKAhP9NI4ipvbX6Vs_fqLfUiaJjqltm6-L229/s1600/20200719_135620.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOuqwu2X3CmHSAnXBZ-qdwJW-wI3HM2nV0B-__qvQqILb1doN6DcTgzIzxURIdLp1f3_e9jBhyetsm8PaAy4twZLO_hp3zvyTiksT02nBQKAhP9NI4ipvbX6Vs_fqLfUiaJjqltm6-L229/s400/20200719_135620.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div>
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<i>as if things couldn't get worse Ferndalian forces begin to arrive on both flanks, </i></div>
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<i>on the right a cloud of mounted arquebusiers boldly (foolishly?) confront the Husarska </i></div>
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<i><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSUxaiZ1NtMRxW-d__73Gms6rBC_Ks6_xKDphGWF4PHFPnBKvpEkXqJ6VrhcHPXdt72ZUH-aQOv7npU-wAJNbCOvzEF99Iewu8CBDDwQB8OFajUWy28mAfxy5ZQnRqIZeVy61RfiGCJckf/s1600/20200719_135626.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSUxaiZ1NtMRxW-d__73Gms6rBC_Ks6_xKDphGWF4PHFPnBKvpEkXqJ6VrhcHPXdt72ZUH-aQOv7npU-wAJNbCOvzEF99Iewu8CBDDwQB8OFajUWy28mAfxy5ZQnRqIZeVy61RfiGCJckf/s400/20200719_135626.jpg" width="400" /> </a></i></div>
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<i>while on the left a column of dust shows itself to be two brigades of Ferndalian horse,</i></div>
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<i> one of mounted arquebusiers, the other heavy cuirassiers, the Haiduks hurry to occupy the town</i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkNH6EKfB2L90PnQfMaCknoilMomPygqwyED4kzWvwcOTIAryzLrUy6bHWmwSdlZ9P1DkvIzi02YA1YrRSzalVjFK6rdn_oYzGsj9M4LBloZaYJbWTY03FpDNEapLVBFF9CjsFd6S0XjL6/s1600/20200719_141955.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkNH6EKfB2L90PnQfMaCknoilMomPygqwyED4kzWvwcOTIAryzLrUy6bHWmwSdlZ9P1DkvIzi02YA1YrRSzalVjFK6rdn_oYzGsj9M4LBloZaYJbWTY03FpDNEapLVBFF9CjsFd6S0XjL6/s400/20200719_141955.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div>
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<i>in a world of bad news things keep getting worse, now the following force has arrived, </i></div>
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<i>more of the same, mounted arquebusiers, and heavy cuirassiers,</i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyANy02qjDUFEDHTX14KLBmwnC5uX4wjKCaMVpCtwatA0pI1t7ovNRBUIiupTPTqZMYv1a68auPV5dSZmAhBYkliEUY2obCNH4ItrNTFchQF8s683470gyFDrDDlbmIajziC91aG559kmj/s1600/20200719_141957.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyANy02qjDUFEDHTX14KLBmwnC5uX4wjKCaMVpCtwatA0pI1t7ovNRBUIiupTPTqZMYv1a68auPV5dSZmAhBYkliEUY2obCNH4ItrNTFchQF8s683470gyFDrDDlbmIajziC91aG559kmj/s400/20200719_141957.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div>
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<i>the Haiduks promptly opened fire on the left hand column of Ferndalian horse</i></div>
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<i> and were assisted by the clouds of Lisowczycy skirmishers </i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiM9MW2zoO1dQsw5CUumaP_IO7ud5qKvOg-GzQlNUmCgD83oLZT6kCVN7KYxXI2XWRw2z6u6-foO_axp153yIZavGHeIZ9XmwR8upnN1SzjjON-ymxYyLVEgub8l8uKmcw2SEG6dB0ffYDc/s1600/20200719_142001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiM9MW2zoO1dQsw5CUumaP_IO7ud5qKvOg-GzQlNUmCgD83oLZT6kCVN7KYxXI2XWRw2z6u6-foO_axp153yIZavGHeIZ9XmwR8upnN1SzjjON-ymxYyLVEgub8l8uKmcw2SEG6dB0ffYDc/s400/20200719_142001.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div>
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<i>with the left contained and the right being pushed away by a brigade of Husarska a Coriagiew forms on the road next to the village, this is an attack column specially developed by the Frozonian cavalry locally it is known as the "Pain Train"</i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjW9tEQW_VBjjB1mh4HYXRB3CCwrnjgCa5y5RALlEogHFbSqRP8l7FW2SkimFvLhzlwkKCkkUC6dIQOdSdYhXNRObXq5TaWqv_gvClc70CqfG-2aNzTMsle3qKVXIopWiT5G72m0LPIDgrj/s1600/20200719_142003.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjW9tEQW_VBjjB1mh4HYXRB3CCwrnjgCa5y5RALlEogHFbSqRP8l7FW2SkimFvLhzlwkKCkkUC6dIQOdSdYhXNRObXq5TaWqv_gvClc70CqfG-2aNzTMsle3qKVXIopWiT5G72m0LPIDgrj/s400/20200719_142003.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div>
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<i>the Tercio engages the skirmishing light cavalry </i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjndr7PBL0TMmWVhyR2h2xLWxzSG2B-gt2nZ829l1KAvmIMb7dHiX0hKF6YMG6rpXpxndVYgxJEvSRXp81zuA_SoFDKpzZtbFlKhrUBsg1hvnlq2FLD247VMrIUuPDA-igh5pIgo5TgY6j6/s1600/20200719_142010.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjndr7PBL0TMmWVhyR2h2xLWxzSG2B-gt2nZ829l1KAvmIMb7dHiX0hKF6YMG6rpXpxndVYgxJEvSRXp81zuA_SoFDKpzZtbFlKhrUBsg1hvnlq2FLD247VMrIUuPDA-igh5pIgo5TgY6j6/s400/20200719_142010.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div>
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<i>as the right hand mounted arquebusiers flee from the threat of the Husarska </i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyDe290NioUlFiCTGCJ3y8GYjAr3aAKtXA0aISuMc-tTCQrtOft6Um_rA4fUM_Q4c_xshyphenhyphenAorBbekxeItKA3hNk8J5O84YQnk59HgXFb2MANBiXE8k4n10VzI0H4gAaz-kEUPit2ONsj5P/s1600/20200719_143816.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyDe290NioUlFiCTGCJ3y8GYjAr3aAKtXA0aISuMc-tTCQrtOft6Um_rA4fUM_Q4c_xshyphenhyphenAorBbekxeItKA3hNk8J5O84YQnk59HgXFb2MANBiXE8k4n10VzI0H4gAaz-kEUPit2ONsj5P/s640/20200719_143816.jpg" width="360" /> </a></div>
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<i>one unit was foolish enough to engage them in melee,</i></div>
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<i> it did not end well for the mounted arquebusiers </i></div>
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<i>Note; I have been asked about the various discs on the battlefield. The large ones are Order discs, they are all green on one side and a color on the other, the colors reflect one of the six orders possible under the rules, the small discs are Wear markers reflecting the amount of casualties a unit has taken</i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjW2JuloUQPThM39nUSg6iqVHHoAufgyelFptfv-NMyxCmraCc57oho7dp3MwXbtwtrrxIj9fagxN1TyzvWxUwZUZan5rq3QCvPkG9xNT16nknEQtukTxbUGo9iDoUg5ej6r8B-HRUy1HYb/s1600/20200719_144632.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjW2JuloUQPThM39nUSg6iqVHHoAufgyelFptfv-NMyxCmraCc57oho7dp3MwXbtwtrrxIj9fagxN1TyzvWxUwZUZan5rq3QCvPkG9xNT16nknEQtukTxbUGo9iDoUg5ej6r8B-HRUy1HYb/s400/20200719_144632.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div>
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<i>with the light troops out of the way the real fight begins, Husarska vs Heavy Cuirassiers </i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuA7QDtg_thpE_57Zi4ejFJYXdSRI_FkQvRz4uCvIh2PadJzkhuTHkoStCyUZ97tanK46w8cHFS8kMQuQ6j_mHGsgPvJ4OqECVrYp4qFTFVRBW26OFZzalpW_S3jL9rXLJOzIoqcd2ivup/s1600/20200719_145436.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuA7QDtg_thpE_57Zi4ejFJYXdSRI_FkQvRz4uCvIh2PadJzkhuTHkoStCyUZ97tanK46w8cHFS8kMQuQ6j_mHGsgPvJ4OqECVrYp4qFTFVRBW26OFZzalpW_S3jL9rXLJOzIoqcd2ivup/s640/20200719_145436.jpg" width="360" /> </a></div>
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<i>the fire from the mounted arquebusiers has done some damage to the Husarska</i></div>
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<i> but will it be enough to tip the scales? the Husarska have already thrown back one charge by the cuirassiers and look prepared to do so again</i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcSVT0eO-Esc8AafHJGIgWKkW_PyLzNpTdBn9Y-xzteFKW3O3V1XrK_yg0Fn66_zUSqtJWQ1-izL42sJRZ891xsyVJnoq2c4CXT8ecVA3VQsRbnPaW5OBrc5LvD9l8rox9bQFyZ0d-EcA8/s1600/20200719_145442.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcSVT0eO-Esc8AafHJGIgWKkW_PyLzNpTdBn9Y-xzteFKW3O3V1XrK_yg0Fn66_zUSqtJWQ1-izL42sJRZ891xsyVJnoq2c4CXT8ecVA3VQsRbnPaW5OBrc5LvD9l8rox9bQFyZ0d-EcA8/s400/20200719_145442.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div>
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<i>the Coriagiew has formed and is now ready to charge to Tercio, but wait! that is no Tercio just two units of Ferndalian foot pretending to be one, this should be a different matter </i></div>
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<i>but, to everyone's surprise, the sturdy Ferndalian foot rebuff the attack and drive off the Husarska!</i></div>
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<i><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQ59_CAIRYDIsFg9Pp924Vf-yOnMo_bRTscPBWx8tg49nRzayiUjdOJGt2Vbn5HQFT3irI53W4nEUVmELy4k5T0c-FGJZWVPXhu2D0BgopJH_tZQ71Dp8Q2f1B0W3lWvFjgXbThqEFTnAs/s1600/20200719_145446.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQ59_CAIRYDIsFg9Pp924Vf-yOnMo_bRTscPBWx8tg49nRzayiUjdOJGt2Vbn5HQFT3irI53W4nEUVmELy4k5T0c-FGJZWVPXhu2D0BgopJH_tZQ71Dp8Q2f1B0W3lWvFjgXbThqEFTnAs/s400/20200719_145446.jpg" width="400" /> </a></i></div>
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<i>on the left the Lisowczycy occupy the attentions of the mounted arquebusiers</i></div>
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<i> as the Haiduks pound the slowly approaching cuirassiers with a hail of shot </i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdPyNusCm5eRFG_M2J3yn4ddS9QuRfWNdzxBQIbVM1W11QfSpR8qYaEGsOUCNXBLBk63gjmCks21dyycNGST2KBv1FIowltqhgK_DKFGI8OMisQiNtMq3DS5EVkz6xmSth0NBX75S2Wb-v/s1600/20200719_145451.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdPyNusCm5eRFG_M2J3yn4ddS9QuRfWNdzxBQIbVM1W11QfSpR8qYaEGsOUCNXBLBk63gjmCks21dyycNGST2KBv1FIowltqhgK_DKFGI8OMisQiNtMq3DS5EVkz6xmSth0NBX75S2Wb-v/s400/20200719_145451.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div>
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<i>alas there is little left to retard the advance of the trailing force of Ferndalians </i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7SthB2pkUuSG22oZxca3qmYKfPVVV9BFdgshKIHdqG1ac8GmAckC1XmuG_mjbKXuuh8W5JrVk3nMJnjAE0xZ3kQGEqiy5U2k4CBX-seezV8_uyi4s3WveTHLTLeEOpr95JZv3NdRFO9C7/s1600/20200719_155228.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7SthB2pkUuSG22oZxca3qmYKfPVVV9BFdgshKIHdqG1ac8GmAckC1XmuG_mjbKXuuh8W5JrVk3nMJnjAE0xZ3kQGEqiy5U2k4CBX-seezV8_uyi4s3WveTHLTLeEOpr95JZv3NdRFO9C7/s640/20200719_155228.jpg" width="360" /> </a></div>
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<i>with things looking decidedly grim to the front, left and rear the Frozonians</i></div>
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<i> redouble their pressure against the right hand column of Ferndalian horse,</i></div>
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<i>arquebusiers empty a saddle here and there, but victory in melee is firmly with the Husarska </i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjovAqBLxG2od1Oq-zjlOqZdHuR-2nUKVbzqS9lH6hvuYmQsHp93GMst47_ah_G0avEjFXFqbc1OUskqzh5vrBfI1BorGuxGAfwAXIrzrvMUUZKVkAxuDilJzc_XiyoRBj_jg5xBP1IJXuj/s1600/20200719_155230.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjovAqBLxG2od1Oq-zjlOqZdHuR-2nUKVbzqS9lH6hvuYmQsHp93GMst47_ah_G0avEjFXFqbc1OUskqzh5vrBfI1BorGuxGAfwAXIrzrvMUUZKVkAxuDilJzc_XiyoRBj_jg5xBP1IJXuj/s400/20200719_155230.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div>
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<i>and more are on the way! the fate of the right hand Ferndalians may well be sealed </i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWdF0P9JQiU4jrEFdy89BITXIlZ1XAA-dtEbXSswO6tBG2Q0dxD5LYPoNqA1gma94CcSYUS09Dv7o_VFudESDmurEG3jDlQ_whytPqQaXa8pSII98oCQOiFfj3PI77Chf5TPi8tGyXSAKL/s1600/20200719_155234.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWdF0P9JQiU4jrEFdy89BITXIlZ1XAA-dtEbXSswO6tBG2Q0dxD5LYPoNqA1gma94CcSYUS09Dv7o_VFudESDmurEG3jDlQ_whytPqQaXa8pSII98oCQOiFfj3PI77Chf5TPi8tGyXSAKL/s400/20200719_155234.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div>
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<i>not having a way to carry off the the looted treasures the Frozonians set the wagons alight</i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYJhNRsipdvLPaQRVlVW2kiQ389gev79B5MDQv8GZ0gevWNHC3S_cp5q1_PwyDk_La6lOfQsYZ9cfqbMGXcDq_4xf7uFSHUe7QUvmReRwGMP74U2VtHEO_Q3KrfcDmz-VygVhEAta7RcU1/s1600/20200719_155238.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYJhNRsipdvLPaQRVlVW2kiQ389gev79B5MDQv8GZ0gevWNHC3S_cp5q1_PwyDk_La6lOfQsYZ9cfqbMGXcDq_4xf7uFSHUe7QUvmReRwGMP74U2VtHEO_Q3KrfcDmz-VygVhEAta7RcU1/s400/20200719_155238.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div>
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<i>seeing no way to rejoin their friends beyond the village the Lisowczycy begin to retire to the west,</i></div>
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<i>from the village the Haiduks continue their barrage of fire at the surrounding enemy cavalry </i></div>
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<i><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5MjwRC1Zbxn41o55ka3AhJNtnJN0_u40RwLfojzw6SxBocAyO0ZAwgw1HptSmGbOZ2-SXCmVyTtGgMqbsacBltgQ-T-SoiYevMZV7orMNLcSZC2dLP_NFzG_vD2h48MdzGaBBiBy7bkqw/s1600/20200719_161056.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5MjwRC1Zbxn41o55ka3AhJNtnJN0_u40RwLfojzw6SxBocAyO0ZAwgw1HptSmGbOZ2-SXCmVyTtGgMqbsacBltgQ-T-SoiYevMZV7orMNLcSZC2dLP_NFzG_vD2h48MdzGaBBiBy7bkqw/s640/20200719_161056.jpg" width="360" /> </a></i></div>
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<i>in a vain attempt to slow the press of Frozonian cavalry </i></div>
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<i>the cuirassiers and mounted arquebusiers threw themselves ferociously at the Husarska,</i></div>
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<i> with predictable results </i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6MvwVoNLHlhmXAK6fBNxBF9UET7dkS7QIYK0R3jqcentu50s6S6QZ8uYCbQKL1VbN3x7fTjcPed5a9WF9x-Z0EiDGYKfNz81-Kjh4fskdhZotTT-WkF-dYpkyk0WWv42-tQXFHczORBbQ/s1600/20200719_161100.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6MvwVoNLHlhmXAK6fBNxBF9UET7dkS7QIYK0R3jqcentu50s6S6QZ8uYCbQKL1VbN3x7fTjcPed5a9WF9x-Z0EiDGYKfNz81-Kjh4fskdhZotTT-WkF-dYpkyk0WWv42-tQXFHczORBbQ/s400/20200719_161100.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div>
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<i>but all was not well for the Frozonians,</i></div>
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<i> they were now taking fire from the approaching enemy horse behind them </i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitDDkMrM9vNrXC38VjQQr84XaQjnQwBOVJhqh3L_p0on2fGn09SJJYqoR69USVRp-FqmJ8VQhrlMvbru2Vx-mCrpEp3VkM84qn2TktX0Jf0lX3c4zMw1yaeJmYfdhIHiPOdqQEE7QwNLdt/s1600/20200719_161103.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitDDkMrM9vNrXC38VjQQr84XaQjnQwBOVJhqh3L_p0on2fGn09SJJYqoR69USVRp-FqmJ8VQhrlMvbru2Vx-mCrpEp3VkM84qn2TktX0Jf0lX3c4zMw1yaeJmYfdhIHiPOdqQEE7QwNLdt/s400/20200719_161103.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div>
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<i>the fire emptied a few saddles</i></div>
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<i> but the Ferndalains were powerless to catch the retiring Frozonian horse</i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgw_Tli-PrHHLJSCF-AzzbJAal2yNpnFeeQUHBcz9fAUYBjX5ipZjFh4xWdtyJtjKKOybyTzjmJWn_oYbZrhENcQTQ9IXwT5qxHqkgqAVw37zAmKWYofeuUqx_WG_QUSHLro2SfXFdztazT/s1600/20200719_161108.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgw_Tli-PrHHLJSCF-AzzbJAal2yNpnFeeQUHBcz9fAUYBjX5ipZjFh4xWdtyJtjKKOybyTzjmJWn_oYbZrhENcQTQ9IXwT5qxHqkgqAVw37zAmKWYofeuUqx_WG_QUSHLro2SfXFdztazT/s400/20200719_161108.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div>
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<i>seeing themselves surrounded by enemy horse, and not fancying the idea of serving as a rower on one of Peter's galleys, the wily Haiduks broke cover and dashed into the mountainous woodlands of the Camembert Hills, the fire aboard the wagons was extinguished but the damage had been done!</i></div>
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In setting up this little aside I assigned values to how effectively the local governors would react to the invasion by the Frozonians. On the inbound route few made any effort at all to stop the invaders, the Palace troops particularly were completely taken aback. The return trip was another matter. Alerted now that the enemy was in their midst, and with the dual atrocity of burning the Summer Palace and the kidnapping of the King's collections I gave the governors a "plus one" to their die rolls for reacting. They didn't need any of it, they all scored a maximum response and the wheels were set in motion for a very bad outcome for the Frozonians. I was tempted to play the "Hand of God" and re-roll some of the responses but resisted the temptation. As it was the Frozonians made the right decision and cut their losses, saving the precious Husarska but leaving the looted treasures.</div>
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Anton Ryzbakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07844552779982758219noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3523735026214294681.post-48659411941086711222020-07-12T19:56:00.001-07:002020-07-13T03:52:24.450-07:00Good Times, Bad Times....The Destruction of the Bridge of Boats, July 12th, 1620AD<div style="text-align: left;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCbmzMJYDmhhhCEcrdnRfbQTDO269uxh11ZbWDWxkHijTe8qdEnyc84p9vHv9TWNTb2gdiOGAuI124E5lb1PUQqiKkDNQOQn6la8b7xORSWg6mxmYcpR2uri9lYXjshiI3hvXu2Jjzx70n/s1600/The+Plans.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1201" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCbmzMJYDmhhhCEcrdnRfbQTDO269uxh11ZbWDWxkHijTe8qdEnyc84p9vHv9TWNTb2gdiOGAuI124E5lb1PUQqiKkDNQOQn6la8b7xORSWg6mxmYcpR2uri9lYXjshiI3hvXu2Jjzx70n/s640/The+Plans.png" width="640" /></a><i>a contest of conflicting plans</i></div>
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The siege of central Vienee had gone on since December, the city managed to hold on to some of the surrounding farmlands and was able to gather supplies from there but, by the time Spring had arrived, things were truly desperate. Butter and heavy cream for making sauces were in short supply. White flour for pastries was nearly gone. Most spices were nigh unto impossible to find and even sausages were rising in price. Surrender was looking more and more like the only remaining option.</div>
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Enter the hero, Victor von Hastenburg, the First Imperial Engineer of Ferndalia, he convinced Peter the Famished that as the Small-Platers controlled the eastern shore of the Upper Gluten River they should build a bridge of boats across and supply the city by that route. Many scoffed at his idea, the river being nearly 3/4 of a mile wide at that point. Von Hastenburg swore it could be done and wagered to pay for the bridge himself if the attempt failed. Faced with such confidence (and suffering no loss if the effort came to naught) Peter gave his approval. Von Hastenburg set to work and had the bridge assembled and in operation by the end of May despite the problems raised by The Plague. The capital was saved!</div>
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The Proper-Mealers were blissfully unaware of all this until a cavalry patrol pushing down the north bank of the spotted the vast span reaching across the river . They were chased away by the Small-Platers but the cat was out of the bag. Many stratagems were employed to try to break the bridge, first a barge laden with combustibles was launched downstream but that was diverted by the stalwart Small-Plater guard boats. Next an intrepid crew of soldiers drifted downstream on a foggy night with axes intending to cut the hawsers holding the bridge in place, this time they were thwarted by the bells that the engineers had craftily hung on the ropes, the ringing of the bell brought the guard boats out again. Eventually it was decided that only a proper expedition would be able to capture the end of the bridge and cut it loose from it's moorings. A force of cavalry and fast-marching infantry was assembled from the garrison of North Veinee and sent down the Old Post Road (a little-traveled byway that hoped to bypass the enemy's cavalry patrols). All would have been well except for one small detail, a spy in the boarding house of the Proper-Mealer officers. The shoe would be on the other foot, the Proper-Mealers would not be executing a surprise attack, they would be walking into a trap. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcRYWDt11_U_4IfY3Wy8MO-xAigZgpa2K4Xf_Io481JGdSMVPqkIwI2ezirpQj-XGnXbiZTjfBtMw8-e-pTvu6p6DQTgBH5lSudmSR1qpVxSNuuhEuMFZRU3ZgPj9ad7ptEUGZqNS02Ao1/s1600/1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcRYWDt11_U_4IfY3Wy8MO-xAigZgpa2K4Xf_Io481JGdSMVPqkIwI2ezirpQj-XGnXbiZTjfBtMw8-e-pTvu6p6DQTgBH5lSudmSR1qpVxSNuuhEuMFZRU3ZgPj9ad7ptEUGZqNS02Ao1/s400/1.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div>
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<i>the terrain, north is to the right </i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-KyOCZC_gPV_aKDgc_AWPnD8VynrMSpEVIMBs6Bl223IlYRmgs1Hpytuum1pkj8QrrqeyujNWE4vvj9oaFEFlUNG9QxlNAZg99WGwae9xPmMpAH7CJ9qOS5heIusRIyaJcMwmaSzwTlS5/s1600/2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-KyOCZC_gPV_aKDgc_AWPnD8VynrMSpEVIMBs6Bl223IlYRmgs1Hpytuum1pkj8QrrqeyujNWE4vvj9oaFEFlUNG9QxlNAZg99WGwae9xPmMpAH7CJ9qOS5heIusRIyaJcMwmaSzwTlS5/s400/2.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div>
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<i>the Small-Plater force</i></div>
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<i>A. a brigade of Veteran Mounted Arquebusiers</i></div>
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<i>B. a brigade of Cuirassiers </i></div>
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<i>C. a Foot Brigade, 2x Shot and 3x Melee companies</i></div>
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<i>D. a Foot Brigade, 2x Shot and 3x Melee companies</i></div>
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<i>E. the blocking force, 2x Clubmen (workmen), 2 x Light Guns, one unit of elite Clubmen </i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrPj-MH_3dj71sROnVCWJnCEwAqEqMY_WwIRZ6O2YdJErfl_dKrrxW6yX1SJkmM3WvVo_nbu9v7svz7SEJpXSFqUwJuzghINXc5FQ5z7JSfYzV_Zgabd4BJL0iTYoVkHlSuYMLRhM6dzhx/s1600/3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrPj-MH_3dj71sROnVCWJnCEwAqEqMY_WwIRZ6O2YdJErfl_dKrrxW6yX1SJkmM3WvVo_nbu9v7svz7SEJpXSFqUwJuzghINXc5FQ5z7JSfYzV_Zgabd4BJL0iTYoVkHlSuYMLRhM6dzhx/s400/3.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div>
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the Proper-Mealer strike force</div>
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A. <i> a brigade of Veteran Mounted Arquebusiers</i></div>
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<i>B. a brigade of Cuiassiers</i></div>
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<i>C. </i><i><i>a Foot Brigade of 3x Shot </i></i></div>
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<i><i>D.</i></i><i><i><i> a Foot Brigade of 3x Shot </i> </i></i></div>
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<i><i>E. </i></i><i><i><i>a brigade of Veteran Mounted Arquebusiers</i></i></i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdXEo3NqO3uoUlG4sfwLJGihLbTCvgF1tjqeTwTbPcEkLVMYo4gfKyvGpwwV1NqAwKII9TwSxnq3ynu97L9h-iMCSGGH6znqAGvTNW-0nnR_-h0pfspjAmzU40S6Ie2LKt6Ec1ukg_MzeC/s1600/4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdXEo3NqO3uoUlG4sfwLJGihLbTCvgF1tjqeTwTbPcEkLVMYo4gfKyvGpwwV1NqAwKII9TwSxnq3ynu97L9h-iMCSGGH6znqAGvTNW-0nnR_-h0pfspjAmzU40S6Ie2LKt6Ec1ukg_MzeC/s400/4.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div>
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<i>the approach march of the Proper-Mealers </i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgd4SYEdsAIfeRPx8OwDpxbLvKl87_5ICirMhEAUfcWUjEEE2jdh8LSEHcbWgD8azRmgPoKsKltImDwcxtsR5fqDEuRa74urOnFHe2VqEOeZuCF3ws7OdnWsVm8JRQapaJ3gyGo3MiULYZH/s1600/5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgd4SYEdsAIfeRPx8OwDpxbLvKl87_5ICirMhEAUfcWUjEEE2jdh8LSEHcbWgD8azRmgPoKsKltImDwcxtsR5fqDEuRa74urOnFHe2VqEOeZuCF3ws7OdnWsVm8JRQapaJ3gyGo3MiULYZH/s400/5.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div>
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<i>then they spotted the roadway had been blocked, the jig is up, </i></div>
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<i>they have been found out, and, hey!, what's that moving in the woods? </i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPBJ4W_OYKKc02f1-WNIpJbTqHvB8GDtkl8ZKZuyfGFdw3hvf2OObxtZpj-fqoTuIoLZTgPlILQOIHZirVYidRgFhWjC0mSyBwj15foZzivkeV7m5Shak9fwi2FH8hQKZb9Q12Md4HvNQw/s1600/6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPBJ4W_OYKKc02f1-WNIpJbTqHvB8GDtkl8ZKZuyfGFdw3hvf2OObxtZpj-fqoTuIoLZTgPlILQOIHZirVYidRgFhWjC0mSyBwj15foZzivkeV7m5Shak9fwi2FH8hQKZb9Q12Md4HvNQw/s640/6.jpg" width="360" /> </a></div>
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<i>a view looking north along the road </i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjg8g84b_vXZ-bX4g_TG-SSdnjz0jfmIYE6hknZ3s8g2h0mXGUAirWYyopsXzPmWVDolPGzoK2QnnqGGwNKyb8qnpDfEhvqY7g5SWqtd2n9viUnyI97sA0knDLMoZ78e0FEK8FgngJKBLpM/s1600/7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjg8g84b_vXZ-bX4g_TG-SSdnjz0jfmIYE6hknZ3s8g2h0mXGUAirWYyopsXzPmWVDolPGzoK2QnnqGGwNKyb8qnpDfEhvqY7g5SWqtd2n9viUnyI97sA0knDLMoZ78e0FEK8FgngJKBLpM/s640/7.jpg" width="360" /> </a></div>
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<i>as the cavalry round the corner a single cannon shot is fired</i></div>
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<i>the troops along the road have told off a brigade of foot to observe the activity in the woods </i></div>
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<i>the PM cavalry press forward firing at the troops manning the road block and,</i></div>
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<i> far to the north, at the troops emerging from the woods </i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2IS1ttImLCueHA28T06EEoU2m8LBeebCu-G_-SHqaBaWCRdTf_etZ-eRwl6MB87K5FZZDSAIWftGdQnGK9-pf0FqH5Lg-qB0ywaItjWxp8haNxuek-FsyNkGC5OHJFJgf0lstwgJNUL-h/s1600/9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2IS1ttImLCueHA28T06EEoU2m8LBeebCu-G_-SHqaBaWCRdTf_etZ-eRwl6MB87K5FZZDSAIWftGdQnGK9-pf0FqH5Lg-qB0ywaItjWxp8haNxuek-FsyNkGC5OHJFJgf0lstwgJNUL-h/s640/9.jpg" width="360" /> </a></div>
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<i>after much delay the SP sneak-attack from the side road finally appeared; the PM force turned the rearmost Mounted Arquebusier brigade around to deal with this threat, to the south the ambush force began to emerge from the woods as the PM heavy cavalry moved forward to clear off the blocking force, they discovered that the abbatis was simply a row of chopped-down shrubberies instead of a proper obstacle and pushed through it </i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8vMbjCM8IDd6-d7wsR_9HhyidNKC8jeLnTM5gyM-XVHMF_zryn-BwjZV5waFrIvXrXNt0Y4H9gM-wVqNSY2P6linTkco6EquA6Uf72YUPNcHr_FnqWZraxmQ4K3oCRfCWjRh7B6-ZD4NH/s1600/10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8vMbjCM8IDd6-d7wsR_9HhyidNKC8jeLnTM5gyM-XVHMF_zryn-BwjZV5waFrIvXrXNt0Y4H9gM-wVqNSY2P6linTkco6EquA6Uf72YUPNcHr_FnqWZraxmQ4K3oCRfCWjRh7B6-ZD4NH/s400/10.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div>
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<i>fire had become general all along the line but few casualties were incurred </i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhX7oRLDS9_JPBOjQeDYg7Y4dEkb_eXh_UUPP4cmdu56k328Ys0r_fFuWws8mtS1Ifw5M9EPw2eALUvXP4_MAAdD6N0yyynPaxGX5QqcSEOioipn8e7asppAQYtmycd1yOQzjPGhVQM6aj8/s1600/11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhX7oRLDS9_JPBOjQeDYg7Y4dEkb_eXh_UUPP4cmdu56k328Ys0r_fFuWws8mtS1Ifw5M9EPw2eALUvXP4_MAAdD6N0yyynPaxGX5QqcSEOioipn8e7asppAQYtmycd1yOQzjPGhVQM6aj8/s400/11.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div>
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<i>to the rear the Mounted Arquebusiers were masterfully successful at evading charges</i></div>
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<i> (Trunkmonkey was white-hot when rolling Discipline Tests all night long!) </i></div>
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<i>the upshot of it was that each evade moved them closer to the rest of their force</i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidLJADrmPvcpqr5AwKYeNX1CPxrkZIiA6v5CBS-eY_xQrxc8SC48WRLmMC7MmS4L0BfAWOLjDS83rV9fj1SMbTYdZeZOsQ-Hu9CVC42oIVXj5TNV7TyQkx9p-qqU_gv9KhoEFyNmHpei_b/s1600/12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidLJADrmPvcpqr5AwKYeNX1CPxrkZIiA6v5CBS-eY_xQrxc8SC48WRLmMC7MmS4L0BfAWOLjDS83rV9fj1SMbTYdZeZOsQ-Hu9CVC42oIVXj5TNV7TyQkx9p-qqU_gv9KhoEFyNmHpei_b/s640/12.jpg" width="360" /> </a></div>
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<i>things began to go to pieces at the blocking force,</i></div>
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<i> first a unit of workmen fled from the fire of the Mounted Arquebusiers.... </i></div>
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<i><br /></i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXpfMxl4VdyztKOLPiWoFvGCAzSyQJK1P1ynSIeR5BFkDTohaFQhDyFXuy3lDQI4xChmN0Cr26wLAFsCyuABff5GfYIuPrx043STF7C26aIqCppVcg8Pd2yhM2rcDUoTAwEQ9S-bXlkbd9/s1600/13.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXpfMxl4VdyztKOLPiWoFvGCAzSyQJK1P1ynSIeR5BFkDTohaFQhDyFXuy3lDQI4xChmN0Cr26wLAFsCyuABff5GfYIuPrx043STF7C26aIqCppVcg8Pd2yhM2rcDUoTAwEQ9S-bXlkbd9/s400/13.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div>
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<i>in an attempt to relieve some of the pressure</i></div>
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<i> the San Patrico's company attacked the enemy Mounted Arquebusiers </i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCGCbybeEuCSIjEul1DswAc-Bst1X3YUmIE-d9yW-c-n4kjk7Dc85mD4J7T-3-ZpKUU8xXHygFLv-PVzkVNyd2JAdYLP4WQWqz1aQ9TTuv0rbZhCHlUYW3_FdTjBRfDriMh1Ok7Q4zEjgI/s1600/14.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCGCbybeEuCSIjEul1DswAc-Bst1X3YUmIE-d9yW-c-n4kjk7Dc85mD4J7T-3-ZpKUU8xXHygFLv-PVzkVNyd2JAdYLP4WQWqz1aQ9TTuv0rbZhCHlUYW3_FdTjBRfDriMh1Ok7Q4zEjgI/s400/14.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div>
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<i>with surprising success (unusually good die-rolling by yours truly) </i></div>
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<i>they shattered the enemy horsemen and killed the attached general </i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxXh4lbaGAsFz3S0QcvTjFhoOGS2bTrzC98Fiqg9Us2gpcGcusPZZBuMv-V27QdTT_HbFhcovAcE6AtLrMsCQsNIarglf0-skcHM1bHWiAZckYlM7XX7phbdgs5jaLcetvohSX6_lAvvgz/s1600/16.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxXh4lbaGAsFz3S0QcvTjFhoOGS2bTrzC98Fiqg9Us2gpcGcusPZZBuMv-V27QdTT_HbFhcovAcE6AtLrMsCQsNIarglf0-skcHM1bHWiAZckYlM7XX7phbdgs5jaLcetvohSX6_lAvvgz/s400/16.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div>
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<i>but the PM force ground forward, the cuirassiers crossed the abbatis to </i></div>
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<i>confront the "elite" armed mob supported by fire from the Mounted Arquebusiers</i></div>
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<i>another unit of cuirassiers followed in their footsteps </i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMkmzBbPXK51PtTVa8MBDYRQh8RIeZO6XDuGm4M9qkWCn6saTnhD04rbjY9EXfhHs3I1Gjcz3nVezuRoxcEKvApzIxFPi9Fag8N2GtXASUQsKh_ManuMUOMr8AhGO-2Zj4ZVHt8UcsGECJ/s1600/17.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMkmzBbPXK51PtTVa8MBDYRQh8RIeZO6XDuGm4M9qkWCn6saTnhD04rbjY9EXfhHs3I1Gjcz3nVezuRoxcEKvApzIxFPi9Fag8N2GtXASUQsKh_ManuMUOMr8AhGO-2Zj4ZVHt8UcsGECJ/s640/17.jpg" width="360" /> </a></div>
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<i>far to the north the Mounted Arquebusiers continued to stymie the advance of the flank attackers</i></div>
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<i>while in the center the ambush force had completely broken cover and was running to catch up with the PM trooops</i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFod_mg9scEBYoshEqUxSL0nq76fUYPPxy7r7y3fzQnucbeQcMWiK8BmB1azLoOqaq4u6P6mLjHjh9T1pwjDBD_wOjekpG08NcMBHG6MxsLXAsWl47YXRVb1RtM0L_dcz4jQJf4jmh-oGT/s1600/18.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFod_mg9scEBYoshEqUxSL0nq76fUYPPxy7r7y3fzQnucbeQcMWiK8BmB1azLoOqaq4u6P6mLjHjh9T1pwjDBD_wOjekpG08NcMBHG6MxsLXAsWl47YXRVb1RtM0L_dcz4jQJf4jmh-oGT/s640/18.jpg" width="360" /> </a></div>
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<i>the San Patricos swiftly learned the disadvantages off acting as the "meat-shield"</i></div>
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<i> for the other troops as they were pummeled by fire from the enemy shot, these shot were doubly annoying as they would evade away if charged! </i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisVQwtG9KAmE1m-H5xtHhc0Wj8sTUKef9XUrPtR4Piuj3EBZJ8dbUqhtkTKF7QZVntK9HPd1xBoXqqk27tQdBrSUaPYtBz3FgKLIxK7DcbzUinuIXeOeBBIWqFdjJWBM0Ar8WcdOShdQoh/s1600/19.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisVQwtG9KAmE1m-H5xtHhc0Wj8sTUKef9XUrPtR4Piuj3EBZJ8dbUqhtkTKF7QZVntK9HPd1xBoXqqk27tQdBrSUaPYtBz3FgKLIxK7DcbzUinuIXeOeBBIWqFdjJWBM0Ar8WcdOShdQoh/s400/19.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div>
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<i>meanwhile, on the other side of the abbatis the cuirassiers put sword to the gunners </i></div>
<i><br /></i>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeLQgOMfjmpApQs3VUNEnFKxR12hbJqWKnln-PEjDpaVXZ3hDjyIB8_vQKRPTaGYBWTrOrJ4nvKuaf8tlxl8M_hulUjcScidmTF-cExFaw8fwFZSwwTeXaZxE1JXG_CehYrkbFOmtc-kxV/s1600/20.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeLQgOMfjmpApQs3VUNEnFKxR12hbJqWKnln-PEjDpaVXZ3hDjyIB8_vQKRPTaGYBWTrOrJ4nvKuaf8tlxl8M_hulUjcScidmTF-cExFaw8fwFZSwwTeXaZxE1JXG_CehYrkbFOmtc-kxV/s640/20.jpg" width="360" /> </a></div>
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<i>and then ignored the fire of the next armed mob, in the center the Shot continued to pepper the SP melee companies with fire and far to the north the the</i> <i>Mounted Arquebusiers continued their heroic delaying action</i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhje34ZCs8c4fncyQCCPOejH7ab3Psi45phWUQZxk4P5Oe6HNpQ7sNqcW2rrHTo-JTBs4FHgTVoxqpXygdeeVV3UNC0Le9YIOVx1EqudSBnrx654FhFJcH8FqAqaFHJtEiHViayOObj5t2T/s1600/21.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhje34ZCs8c4fncyQCCPOejH7ab3Psi45phWUQZxk4P5Oe6HNpQ7sNqcW2rrHTo-JTBs4FHgTVoxqpXygdeeVV3UNC0Le9YIOVx1EqudSBnrx654FhFJcH8FqAqaFHJtEiHViayOObj5t2T/s400/21.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div>
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<i>and to the south the PM troops began to exit the battle space to continue on their mission </i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJUZxKI4rJPbfNSSOSsqAzabOp1xoZ7JZc4or75KxPZx0JwP5ub1CY5-rxaR7VI76eqtaOYpdUI8Dn8kpr9rndQCkDRntxWPbEzEbqs3SmJVkSRbO2xPXZZrODrFFXjRwll7249hir0h-2/s1600/22.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJUZxKI4rJPbfNSSOSsqAzabOp1xoZ7JZc4or75KxPZx0JwP5ub1CY5-rxaR7VI76eqtaOYpdUI8Dn8kpr9rndQCkDRntxWPbEzEbqs3SmJVkSRbO2xPXZZrODrFFXjRwll7249hir0h-2/s400/22.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div>
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<i>retiring but never routing the </i><i>Mounted Arquebusiers baffled every effort to bring them to combat</i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGYwOb-IBetKr1WvAwPeKyTrmwRR_gxzRkgeYN8akg2dKxxckZuoNWRNmYhAAU2i_KpEEbXmD3HKFLro_xzdrgs_8ysqOKkk-PRjKkGv0yCpCErmarwQdPVttk5BNHmN0XpzTd4RXIlO0R/s1600/23.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGYwOb-IBetKr1WvAwPeKyTrmwRR_gxzRkgeYN8akg2dKxxckZuoNWRNmYhAAU2i_KpEEbXmD3HKFLro_xzdrgs_8ysqOKkk-PRjKkGv0yCpCErmarwQdPVttk5BNHmN0XpzTd4RXIlO0R/s640/23.jpg" width="360" /> </a></div>
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<i>as the cuirassiers did away with the last of the armed workmen </i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYtlxqSRqthGUhpuR4aLXjFguhUNL8L5U6dPFmJt55EmPFw3cfK1n3583D4s_Ui9e_xSnWzwSKS5L5jKgzDQfGD8Z3Jg7R6JE69fPK1_xtHm8DT8sFzL0Y-xQYUk3m44CgtBX_yu6Nvnt0/s1600/24.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYtlxqSRqthGUhpuR4aLXjFguhUNL8L5U6dPFmJt55EmPFw3cfK1n3583D4s_Ui9e_xSnWzwSKS5L5jKgzDQfGD8Z3Jg7R6JE69fPK1_xtHm8DT8sFzL0Y-xQYUk3m44CgtBX_yu6Nvnt0/s640/24.jpg" width="360" /> </a></div>
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<i>having dispatched the mobs the cuirassiers now were in a position to take the SP melee companies in the rear, the weary San Patricos turned to willing to sell their lives dearly so that the others could continue to hunt the PM Shot troops </i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgT095CS3SgbuCulU9fOP6Hpe1TY0jkpL-1ZmdlSE_tNFkB1tQJ6hwYqdIJ3Kx79GFQrXpoKm-JpflroudRtftJPkndDLCuMRS0AmJHuU9im9XJhGGKMmWG1V56w95-PHyT1Ol7c_mhQ8P-/s1600/25.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgT095CS3SgbuCulU9fOP6Hpe1TY0jkpL-1ZmdlSE_tNFkB1tQJ6hwYqdIJ3Kx79GFQrXpoKm-JpflroudRtftJPkndDLCuMRS0AmJHuU9im9XJhGGKMmWG1V56w95-PHyT1Ol7c_mhQ8P-/s400/25.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div>
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<i>their mission completed, the bent-but-never-broken</i></div>
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<i> PM Mounted Arquebusiers turned and raced to rejoin their fellows</i> </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNNS9EalhfQApEeJqawGF8JJ9119t6zlulMf0mYD3EorCgEPa7oF9hI0_WXTmmb9H_naHDMNmtzvMCWhyphenhyphenO7-UKrUfBFuOaHjtXbLdlGBfXLoKu9C22hvqMYj22qAnGP4kOvAJreuo1g4jc/s1600/26.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNNS9EalhfQApEeJqawGF8JJ9119t6zlulMf0mYD3EorCgEPa7oF9hI0_WXTmmb9H_naHDMNmtzvMCWhyphenhyphenO7-UKrUfBFuOaHjtXbLdlGBfXLoKu9C22hvqMYj22qAnGP4kOvAJreuo1g4jc/s400/26.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div>
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<i>as the cavalry hurried southwards the Shot units laid </i></div>
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<i>down a furious fusillade that slowed the SP melee companies</i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5lpcnVU9wLlwUAdB-dl6p1Oe5g6XuMXDMSUwknUuh4kdtMb_QJN5nY27lPHlg26VIp78L78KEfbxcHeWdz2EfF40gy11D3p1bmIquwn3JlP1zQHWD9gxw5lo7H0LitEIn1UZxCFeS0A12/s1600/27.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5lpcnVU9wLlwUAdB-dl6p1Oe5g6XuMXDMSUwknUuh4kdtMb_QJN5nY27lPHlg26VIp78L78KEfbxcHeWdz2EfF40gy11D3p1bmIquwn3JlP1zQHWD9gxw5lo7H0LitEIn1UZxCFeS0A12/s400/27.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div>
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<i>as more and more PM units exited the southern area of the battle the San Patricos went down in glorious defeat trying to stop the relentless press of the cuirassiers </i></div>
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As the battle wound down the PM force moved with dispatch toward its objective; the eastern terminus of the bridge<i>. </i>Outpacing the enemy they fell upon the few remaining guards at the bridge with little mercy and set to work cutting cables and burning the structure. Knowing that the (by now furious) SP force was just a short few hours behind they loaded the infantry into the barges that had formed the bridge and sent them floating downstream toward friendly shores. The cavalry turned northeast and marched into the countryside trying to get back west by a circuitous route.<i></i><br />
An important but costly victory for the Proper Meal faction as the northern part of the capital is nearly denuded of troops and the infantry are drifting southwards with every minute! The cavalry have a long and uncertain march back home and will have to dodge enemy patrols as they move. The real question remains; can the Small-Platers get themselves sorted out to conduct an assault on the northern portion of Vienee before the fortress can be reinforced?<i><br /></i>Anton Ryzbakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07844552779982758219noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3523735026214294681.post-23898968497302442302020-07-05T15:56:00.003-07:002020-07-05T15:56:56.985-07:00The Army of Free Frozonia<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLoLAoYqHMjFJwai9DC7I8Et8_TYysWwfjXZvlXuEZrmmJQDpeQTJFouAfUFPOFXDquXCUNKBMYA2TI0rKibq9jmjJ-wBbC6aoRCl1-2J1Kf_R46fRQGxw5y9f1S8dZ6KkLjVTfkVh8ldX/s1600/20200703_161947.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLoLAoYqHMjFJwai9DC7I8Et8_TYysWwfjXZvlXuEZrmmJQDpeQTJFouAfUFPOFXDquXCUNKBMYA2TI0rKibq9jmjJ-wBbC6aoRCl1-2J1Kf_R46fRQGxw5y9f1S8dZ6KkLjVTfkVh8ldX/s640/20200703_161947.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<i>the core of the Frozonian army, the famous Winged Hussars </i></div>
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Tiny, but fierce and famously independent, the reborn army of the Seventh War of Frozoniain Emancipation has at it's center the battle-dominating Winged Hussars. Drawn from the landed gentry each Hussar competes with all the others for splendor, heroism and fame. Like the ancient Vikings they consider dying in battle to be this highest honor to which a man can aspire. Hussars are accompanied by the vassals from their estates who serve in large units of levies, they lack a great deal of martial skill but can control areas of the battle field by their sheer numbers and considerable staying power. Other Freemen serve as well; those wealthy enough to own horses serve in the famed Lisowczycy Light Horse, scouting ahead of the army and harassing the enemy's flanks during battles. Humble Freemen serve on foot in the Haiduks, fierce warriors that combine their muskets with heavy bardische axes (used as musket rests when shooting). These nimble soldiers can scout rough terrain and move freely about the battlefield hunting for opportunities to discomfit the enemy.The individual units of the army can be quite powerful but this force is very sensitive to casualties given the small population that it is drawn from.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiukHOj-K097tCgwgHu5_ORiVCF281ge3krsVf5Oszelt48rQblr-t63gNks0enGxSLka-gfJsoWL91qKJx_Df-l65X1I6CuqSvXMNlNWM6FclNFbWONsxphansOQkb58U-3HiLkMcUKaKh/s1600/20200705_140416.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiukHOj-K097tCgwgHu5_ORiVCF281ge3krsVf5Oszelt48rQblr-t63gNks0enGxSLka-gfJsoWL91qKJx_Df-l65X1I6CuqSvXMNlNWM6FclNFbWONsxphansOQkb58U-3HiLkMcUKaKh/s640/20200705_140416.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<u>Commander In Chief</u> Grand Hetman Tadeusz Podolski Rank 5<br />
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Second in Command Hetman Krzysztof Podolski Rank 4<br />
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Andrzej Seweryn Hetman of the Hussars Rank 4<br />
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Krzysztof Kieslowski Rank 3<br />
Dariusz Michalczewski Rank 3<br />
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Zbigniew Boniek Hetman of the Lisowczycy Rank 3<br />
Adam Malysz Rank 3<br />
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Andrzej Golota Hetman of the Foot Rank 3<br />
Czeslaw Milosz Rank 3<br />
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The Winged Hussars; six units of Husarska<br />
The Lisowczycy seven units of Organized Lisowczycy with pistols<br />
The Haiduks four unit of Well Equipped Veteran Haiduks with Halberds<br />
The Levy Two units of Well Equipped, Large, Obedient Levies without pikes<br />
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With the stunning success of the early days of the campaign more men are expected to join the colors soon , but for now, these men are sword and shield of Frozonia.<br />
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Anton Ryzbakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07844552779982758219noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3523735026214294681.post-57261760534686099362020-07-03T22:35:00.002-07:002020-07-05T12:07:05.892-07:00Wild Horses.....but more appropriately; Winged Hussars!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg852KurhAUzH_VkhaV6S_OC2jyFpL9Ejmj0dOTAlc8v531nC_MGcXOR8Z2SaOGmZ7Roj8sUwTrN15_kDFJNFN13vNa3Wi7gz1jUTebPHiYO1CyvT7UeMS0s2Cfvj7nEHhJQWTui5jWMqE7/s1600/20200703_161947.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg852KurhAUzH_VkhaV6S_OC2jyFpL9Ejmj0dOTAlc8v531nC_MGcXOR8Z2SaOGmZ7Roj8sUwTrN15_kDFJNFN13vNa3Wi7gz1jUTebPHiYO1CyvT7UeMS0s2Cfvj7nEHhJQWTui5jWMqE7/s640/20200703_161947.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Tadeusz Podolski looked up from his desk at the dusty messenger that had just clattered into his courtyard and rushed into his house. The Governor of Frozonia had received far too many hurried messages of bad news in the last three months but his expression softened when he realized that it was his young nephew, Kazimierz. "Well, what brings my favorite nephew to my house in such a hurry on this fine day?" The young man made a concerted effort to compose himself as he straightened his uniform and drew an envelope from his jacket pocket. With deliberate formality he bowed and presented the envelope to his uncle.</div>
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Tadeusz reached out and took the proffered packet from his nephew with a quizzical look. Turning it over he saw that it bore the seal of his brother, but not the seal of the Commander of the Fortress of Druhzba, but instead the seal of the family Poldolski. "So this personal message had to be sent with great haste?" he asked his nephew, "Has the plague claimed another of our House?" He saw his nephew's eyes widen slightly and a faint flicker of a grin dance across his face, "No sir!" he replied smartly. "I believe that you will be a happy recipient of this news, But my father forbade me from telling you, he desired to be the one that broke the news to you, Sir!"</div>
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Tadeusz raised one eyebrow then looked back down at the packet as he slid his thumb under the wax seal and broke it open. He carefully open the letter and began to read it. His eyes narrowed and he stood up so suddenly that his chair flew across the room, he looked up at Kazimierz with a smile of joy spreading across his face, "Is this true? he asked in an incredulous tone, This isn't some sort of cruel joke, is this really true?" The boy returned his smile, "Yes, Uncle, it is! As real as the sunrise!"</div>
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Tadeusz threw back his head and laughed for joy, "After all these years, and all those broken promises, they have finally come to our aid!" He turned to the credenza next to his desk and picked up a bottle of vodka, "We drink!" He shouted, "We drink to a free Frozonia, the Freedonians have finally marched to our aid!" He pulled out the cork and took a long draught before passing the bottle to his nephew. "You will have the chance to earn your wings before the week is out lad, Free Frozonia!"</div>
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The other half of Louis the Ravenous' foreign policy had fallen into place. Not only had Louis <a href="https://epicureanwars.blogspot.com/2020/06/take-me-to-river-battle-of-belmas.html">invaded Ferndalia via Boozonia</a>, he had managed to convince the recently reconquered Frozonians to join him in his attack on the Ferndalian Northern Marches. He knew that the Frozonians chafed under harsh rule of the House of Whey and would need little prompting to rise up and try to re-establish their ancient freedoms. He counted on that desire to persuade the Frozonians to put an army into the field in Peter's rear and ease the task of his own invading army. Let us see how that turned out....</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAKMnCCQJZVTLJ-4BmNcM8dxP6ZknQlsRhnncbq1-V9p4-YnAba9uVGBOODkf_G0zZi_h_N0dV0g5Lws00msV3ZQdjkR2JzbkNoYVMXNMQxXdzVNDWIuzhaOrZgYMR7kepMrAsSHYXC2U0/s1600/20200702_194046.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAKMnCCQJZVTLJ-4BmNcM8dxP6ZknQlsRhnncbq1-V9p4-YnAba9uVGBOODkf_G0zZi_h_N0dV0g5Lws00msV3ZQdjkR2JzbkNoYVMXNMQxXdzVNDWIuzhaOrZgYMR7kepMrAsSHYXC2U0/s400/20200702_194046.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div>
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<i>north is to the left in all these pictures</i></div>
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<i>on the near edge, left to right; the Ferndalian troops, mounted arquebusiers, Cuirassiers, four battalions of militia, more cuirassiers, and then more mounted arquebusiers</i></div>
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<i>on the far edge the rather smaller Frozonian army; again left to right; two units of light horse, two units of Haiduks, two units of levies, and five units of light horse on the south</i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkvwStv7Nimz4kQZQx4tmeUD23lDsuRgGQixMdGouIiBqSAdFPt3ge8eAvdG1mMu-bqI8AZnFeGucIt-_XLI5p1TRD9AmL4icA3jvXYWK2W4jpiFQTI_QOoibdh0mnAzOu2urZGOKKVQkl/s1600/20200702_195054.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkvwStv7Nimz4kQZQx4tmeUD23lDsuRgGQixMdGouIiBqSAdFPt3ge8eAvdG1mMu-bqI8AZnFeGucIt-_XLI5p1TRD9AmL4icA3jvXYWK2W4jpiFQTI_QOoibdh0mnAzOu2urZGOKKVQkl/s400/20200702_195054.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div>
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<i>the opening moves; on the left the Ferndalians move out confidently</i></div>
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<i> as the foot in the center trudge forward </i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdAQRXNPxLcgKDWKLdP1QKNadt_QnJKO6msWQPpF8Wtl6xEp91vNGxhjASP-k41_yjcR5KO5c90deUl8UoMqdRc7kU90GvFzQqj6yxzXe19YNsKWdffB8RhPtC70kfWxmAOSSCadndUW4F/s1600/20200702_195100.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdAQRXNPxLcgKDWKLdP1QKNadt_QnJKO6msWQPpF8Wtl6xEp91vNGxhjASP-k41_yjcR5KO5c90deUl8UoMqdRc7kU90GvFzQqj6yxzXe19YNsKWdffB8RhPtC70kfWxmAOSSCadndUW4F/s400/20200702_195100.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div>
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<i>on the right the Ferndalians found progress slowed by freshly plowed fields</i></div>
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<i> these caused the Frozonian light horse little trouble</i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4U2R6x74BHdKQUghvnhuyeDBSho4h1tIef96WvotTTdG_EQhOLcfOXlB4Tlnu9foGtwGzJ35mv8TFSv2ZPcXfT8yxr8VZ0nDJ7lP2-HCTOn21M1LxPwjOKp-SP5sqXlT3TINLzbYuDMku/s1600/20200702_202032.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4U2R6x74BHdKQUghvnhuyeDBSho4h1tIef96WvotTTdG_EQhOLcfOXlB4Tlnu9foGtwGzJ35mv8TFSv2ZPcXfT8yxr8VZ0nDJ7lP2-HCTOn21M1LxPwjOKp-SP5sqXlT3TINLzbYuDMku/s400/20200702_202032.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div>
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<i>the next turn saw aggressive action by the left hand mounted arquebusiers drive back the Frozonian light horse, in the center the Ferndalian heavy units moved forward slowly receiving fire from the Haiduks (to little effect), the Ferndalians felt confident of victory at this point</i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJFfIVvVTSWxSBXAZYrEmqSsH2d2-nwG_lLpVRXJPWIqtKPSKthDLgUT6BurpLp_zY9DKrjMf8CYpeBlcAG4qHP_Ni3_UtPzRILz7cLj9XKqTEWUf2R2JcDuKmFIcVl3I3vfoE2z0CH908/s1600/20200702_202048.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJFfIVvVTSWxSBXAZYrEmqSsH2d2-nwG_lLpVRXJPWIqtKPSKthDLgUT6BurpLp_zY9DKrjMf8CYpeBlcAG4qHP_Ni3_UtPzRILz7cLj9XKqTEWUf2R2JcDuKmFIcVl3I3vfoE2z0CH908/s400/20200702_202048.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div>
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<i>still too far to open fire, the Ferndalian infantry continued to march ahead </i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtf8kKZpzZ0GNReSucARbR3sslzc8CGxOF9i3ldOX7V7YZKQuEjnLdn33GhMC3xhwDW71gO3qO3d9u0fxtMXNublp3LtXvYe5FSIIP_EqdNhhAJ7n6dOL8L8bz9y_PL0BOuRZsEMFZZziV/s1600/20200702_202053.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtf8kKZpzZ0GNReSucARbR3sslzc8CGxOF9i3ldOX7V7YZKQuEjnLdn33GhMC3xhwDW71gO3qO3d9u0fxtMXNublp3LtXvYe5FSIIP_EqdNhhAJ7n6dOL8L8bz9y_PL0BOuRZsEMFZZziV/s400/20200702_202053.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div>
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<i>unable to navigate the turnip field the mounted arquebusiers opened fire</i></div>
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<i> on the light horse causing some casualties </i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnR0q2pOLiCC9GpUVb-UoPluXwPKf8C0kLgkAo4_KPxh3v8DIcBGegTVg3W0hjYtNYrqZz912lD2IL7547glfP_p_WS1Kcyk4aYgUTBxhGgYleoPjAPe4R50gfuGFtohxLcW5u0rm5_cVi/s1600/20200702_210244.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnR0q2pOLiCC9GpUVb-UoPluXwPKf8C0kLgkAo4_KPxh3v8DIcBGegTVg3W0hjYtNYrqZz912lD2IL7547glfP_p_WS1Kcyk4aYgUTBxhGgYleoPjAPe4R50gfuGFtohxLcW5u0rm5_cVi/s400/20200702_210244.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div>
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<i>the the third turn began, dust clouds from the north and then a sudden onslaught of steel; </i></div>
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<i>the Winged Hussars had arrived scattering the over-extended Ferndalian cavalry</i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijJKBM5KztI8zmfQKtIA_P1hbuWK1HO-mAPef9QSMONhHReUdsHbpvxi6ar7XiylJOgCtjS-_Dufs0B9vtIl051BNLbpV1xtz4nc_v9qoNx9TiD-j6CiDLL_xeFqj8Amde5GPn3vX5Ur46/s1600/20200702_210247.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijJKBM5KztI8zmfQKtIA_P1hbuWK1HO-mAPef9QSMONhHReUdsHbpvxi6ar7XiylJOgCtjS-_Dufs0B9vtIl051BNLbpV1xtz4nc_v9qoNx9TiD-j6CiDLL_xeFqj8Amde5GPn3vX5Ur46/s400/20200702_210247.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div>
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<i>at the same time the Frozonian foot poured fire into the cuirassiers adding casualties </i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipoPrRRflk-5vi4PbXo9iqqM0-GDm3CAjV9DS69CCTOPwGg8yUyl9fcZLrheOtyt1M_pL3C1rbLYqr_P7hR9sVknhWZVLQcM_QWZTNbBLKBHkKzhretQmgW3m2nxS0mVzQU49V_wYr9hL4/s1600/20200702_210250.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipoPrRRflk-5vi4PbXo9iqqM0-GDm3CAjV9DS69CCTOPwGg8yUyl9fcZLrheOtyt1M_pL3C1rbLYqr_P7hR9sVknhWZVLQcM_QWZTNbBLKBHkKzhretQmgW3m2nxS0mVzQU49V_wYr9hL4/s400/20200702_210250.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div>
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<i>a charge by the Frozonian light horse punished the mounted arquebusiers that had been caught, supporting fire from the other Ferndalian units drove off the offending skirmishers</i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4BvDeLtlB14PGnk0rGAgq0GnYC8eOEnXKlGMoV346eF5oiZIjBa6RvxLODkis6auQaniay956kmlkGNzt9pjt5nBEAev2CwCjcNEeZ_UIX77530QAauyO2CjHeQ2QKai_vS_zC8AAwD1e/s1600/20200702_213223.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4BvDeLtlB14PGnk0rGAgq0GnYC8eOEnXKlGMoV346eF5oiZIjBa6RvxLODkis6auQaniay956kmlkGNzt9pjt5nBEAev2CwCjcNEeZ_UIX77530QAauyO2CjHeQ2QKai_vS_zC8AAwD1e/s400/20200702_213223.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div>
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<i>the fourth turn saw the unrelenting flood-tide of Hussars</i></div>
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<i> shatter several more Ferndalian cavalry units</i></div>
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<i>the foot in the center began to turn to face this seemingly unstoppable threat</i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhybAlx92HmxqOQskkdAvQlDyAkLwOeVTNvSgj60HDlTH8ZJS2jO5chrNa-kpFd5k8yohV4oKgAafa6KJs0VK51ny0lYJD_cR5xE0R3pPJfZYrSFyA8BFdvskiwSWaNpUEbtFYLLvCzPxKf/s1600/20200702_213226.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhybAlx92HmxqOQskkdAvQlDyAkLwOeVTNvSgj60HDlTH8ZJS2jO5chrNa-kpFd5k8yohV4oKgAafa6KJs0VK51ny0lYJD_cR5xE0R3pPJfZYrSFyA8BFdvskiwSWaNpUEbtFYLLvCzPxKf/s400/20200702_213226.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div>
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<i>in the center fire had become general </i></div>
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<i>with the cuirassiers lining up to attack the southernmost haiduks in the next turn </i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8SapNtC-LvcX0hcgBLbqVEz00bmwfMShWsCqlChKB5ic7k8U6IZ4HNQ6b1ZI3JERM3uHouXV_1Hm5VoMu5oYP2MczXvQtxC1-zDNawNOSaiswFvp7hXKM-rljc1TdSL_WDAGMmUyTbZJQ/s1600/20200702_213231.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8SapNtC-LvcX0hcgBLbqVEz00bmwfMShWsCqlChKB5ic7k8U6IZ4HNQ6b1ZI3JERM3uHouXV_1Hm5VoMu5oYP2MczXvQtxC1-zDNawNOSaiswFvp7hXKM-rljc1TdSL_WDAGMmUyTbZJQ/s400/20200702_213231.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div>
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<i>far away to the south, the light horse and the mounted arquebusiers spent the turn reorganizing</i></div>
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<i>the large number of generals on the Frozonian side really began to impact the game, the Ferndalian simply didn't have enough command ability to keep up</i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAIpqJfK_PuwTzjud6VhwXhvKLA2YAHxKRnS-JKL7HBUtBkUlckGHEr89QHfOPpgQCHL0cDcKjyqGdAqPSNGzItOT-psq9Iuwp35_-0pT2F4HePMKL48FF5uqpDSt-DmypT7JRxiuOL2yt/s1600/20200702_220156.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAIpqJfK_PuwTzjud6VhwXhvKLA2YAHxKRnS-JKL7HBUtBkUlckGHEr89QHfOPpgQCHL0cDcKjyqGdAqPSNGzItOT-psq9Iuwp35_-0pT2F4HePMKL48FF5uqpDSt-DmypT7JRxiuOL2yt/s400/20200702_220156.jpg" width="225" /> </a></div>
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<i>opening move of the fifth turn, the Hussars broke a unit of militia, destroying it completely</i></div>
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<i>the writing began to appear on the wall </i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizRsn58ZoDPJJn0tQSIus4lPM2FNVyQJwapjSXSX4MllyNC7H1UjX-HQ50DBhxjtDQXE5DK4h9lZ-jL3fq51FBPJ9hNEs3lVK1rh9OthzM68-rg0jycvxQxvZcctR6oXzDnk8GTkEHp7Hq/s1600/20200702_220413.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizRsn58ZoDPJJn0tQSIus4lPM2FNVyQJwapjSXSX4MllyNC7H1UjX-HQ50DBhxjtDQXE5DK4h9lZ-jL3fq51FBPJ9hNEs3lVK1rh9OthzM68-rg0jycvxQxvZcctR6oXzDnk8GTkEHp7Hq/s400/20200702_220413.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div>
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<i>to the far north the one remaining unit of mounted arquebusiers had charged (vainly) a unit of Hussars, only to be thrown back with three excess stamina hits, remarkably they passed their discipline test and remained, only to be charged again, they lost that fight as well gaining another two excess hits which (unbelievably) they saved as well; battered, bloodied, but still on the field they bravely faced the foe </i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNaJyumG5Ftz3uXQ_xUpiJMBEzrH1z1w2H09EwWT3pPYmZb8HXEOA_D5tSvTsCRtMXhf0o5ySj8t7OGgIMvdvNTrek4kmVMlEOJ6byysBcm3p_7Y9YFgRfQACYQbiWyioilkPw7CGsTkWb/s1600/20200702_220416.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNaJyumG5Ftz3uXQ_xUpiJMBEzrH1z1w2H09EwWT3pPYmZb8HXEOA_D5tSvTsCRtMXhf0o5ySj8t7OGgIMvdvNTrek4kmVMlEOJ6byysBcm3p_7Y9YFgRfQACYQbiWyioilkPw7CGsTkWb/s400/20200702_220416.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div>
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<i>in the center thing were going from bad to worse for the Ferndalian cause, the infantry were taking hits but generating few in return while the cuirassier paid heavily for breaking a unit of haiduks, to top it all off the generals all decided to fail their command tests </i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuJ7RjQLsDVxGY5nHP8s8GziyiVU5Tz0ZkAg2cHuWMo92YqjfoNCX-8GKZueipgj7Ua34gx-Cs6IePTUQxc0nsMBVQrUCRhCCxS7h123DOUPlI5UqUeQwPQeMQdienUqDdE6I93r3oLJsl/s1600/20200702_220418.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuJ7RjQLsDVxGY5nHP8s8GziyiVU5Tz0ZkAg2cHuWMo92YqjfoNCX-8GKZueipgj7Ua34gx-Cs6IePTUQxc0nsMBVQrUCRhCCxS7h123DOUPlI5UqUeQwPQeMQdienUqDdE6I93r3oLJsl/s400/20200702_220418.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div>
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<i>in the far south the mounted arquebusiers bravely moved </i></div>
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<i>up to try to take pressure of the faltering cuirassiers </i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6a-OBQW7K-nK0VDISwIHP2edwR9VJdMl6Ckz1fnOBjbp-083-BZRNSdk6w8BZ35kC8BDOjijDcsfnhyIUPDH6XqPYhX0GHemjWzTHiF24LsHF0l5jlUkhcmHPl69qzm2BsN0Ffj1J4yUQ/s1600/20200702_222459.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6a-OBQW7K-nK0VDISwIHP2edwR9VJdMl6Ckz1fnOBjbp-083-BZRNSdk6w8BZ35kC8BDOjijDcsfnhyIUPDH6XqPYhX0GHemjWzTHiF24LsHF0l5jlUkhcmHPl69qzm2BsN0Ffj1J4yUQ/s400/20200702_222459.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div>
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<i>the next turn saw the Hussars breaking another foot formation </i></div>
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<i>while the lone unit of arquebusiers again rebuffed the advances of the Hussars </i></div>
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<i> and improbably survived another two excess stamina hits</i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUs_26CIgsMS2VRUs9x1sCDNiN5Dnqf4fcOjJOvQ_Okwdvf1RfnbjFWMm-hblDInZmv1Bt50d5hPKGaKBx5JKe__0p2yLpv22Gi2gILBVRRbrEF5Pq7VozP-KE0jk2Ybevn8XWtoeuVUcb/s1600/20200702_222503.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUs_26CIgsMS2VRUs9x1sCDNiN5Dnqf4fcOjJOvQ_Okwdvf1RfnbjFWMm-hblDInZmv1Bt50d5hPKGaKBx5JKe__0p2yLpv22Gi2gILBVRRbrEF5Pq7VozP-KE0jk2Ybevn8XWtoeuVUcb/s400/20200702_222503.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div>
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<i>the battered foot tried to react to the frightful advance of the Hussars without success, </i></div>
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<i>the generals once again failed to provide leadership</i></div>
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<i> as the Frozonian infantry fire eliminated the last of the cuirassiers</i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVEOYFJzqFh65T29xKkZmBhTkksxESSVSpj9P77GBo5PVTclPs9DDHDKSbN-AvZgB3mxWnJpJWye1rSbkCeQiaQcSqThFq9O1IlJ3-KCA2SlgaGBxa1zBWIRqnbceKEyQxVR72IQytoyqw/s1600/20200702_222505.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVEOYFJzqFh65T29xKkZmBhTkksxESSVSpj9P77GBo5PVTclPs9DDHDKSbN-AvZgB3mxWnJpJWye1rSbkCeQiaQcSqThFq9O1IlJ3-KCA2SlgaGBxa1zBWIRqnbceKEyQxVR72IQytoyqw/s400/20200702_222505.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div>
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<i>at this point the entire fighting strength of the Ferndalian army consisted </i></div>
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<i>of two (very frightened) militia foot units and two units of mounted arquebusiers </i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQEcuYKuvf6jR3RYx0wQ4gfqhrZh8R73EAsCHMHlPQJWcsdTChNn1sp7pn1laSybD2DmLIRu6WstHLtIuEETROxOqFokfFYpXB__DMEl1C5AGGhNWVxV11VnElLTLjwNytF0zRzdS0_Qb_/s1600/20200702_222510.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQEcuYKuvf6jR3RYx0wQ4gfqhrZh8R73EAsCHMHlPQJWcsdTChNn1sp7pn1laSybD2DmLIRu6WstHLtIuEETROxOqFokfFYpXB__DMEl1C5AGGhNWVxV11VnElLTLjwNytF0zRzdS0_Qb_/s400/20200702_222510.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div>
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<i>their morale shattered by the hopeless situation the Ferndalian horse left the field</i></div>
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<i> and the the now defenseless foot began to lower their weapons</i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-7jwYh9fh4XH89XuJzo_fYjqWhFnz0eXyjHKl2ANqE3fFz30LpjXoZ4GVtvI3ggLPW88wP5yjGlqQX8qe5xOFeCV6Owwkfn2NTAO9XoUHtqCBkSSWsJj08eJ2XrrQPpIPDugxqkFY6oQy/s1600/20200702_222513.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-7jwYh9fh4XH89XuJzo_fYjqWhFnz0eXyjHKl2ANqE3fFz30LpjXoZ4GVtvI3ggLPW88wP5yjGlqQX8qe5xOFeCV6Owwkfn2NTAO9XoUHtqCBkSSWsJj08eJ2XrrQPpIPDugxqkFY6oQy/s400/20200702_222513.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div>
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<i>by common accord the heroes of the battle were the northern mounted arquebusiers </i></div>
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<i>who had survived a total of eight excess stamina hit through the course of the battle </i></div>
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<i>they at least could leave the field of strife with their heads held high</i></div>
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<i> </i> The Seventh Frozonian War of Emancipation had begun with a stunning success but Tadeusz Podolski found no joy in the day. His face stricken with grief he stood over the fallen form of his nephew, one of the few casualties suffered by the Hussars this day. Wiping a tear from his craggy features he lifted the boy and placed Kazimierz on his war-horse leaning the boy's lifeless form against the wings fixed to the saddle. "You earned them, poor child", he whispered before leading the horse away on foot into the fading light.</div>
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Anton Ryzbakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07844552779982758219noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3523735026214294681.post-91400943793773354732020-06-28T12:07:00.001-07:002020-06-29T04:15:57.693-07:00Take Me To The River.... The Battle of Belmas<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWp2HG9nyLsgV3f0NjsWS844AmJf6L6P3ZleXiHeiUAXMkfwqNqXhmX10JYIeqh9WWNg_mdZeXNmP1AMyW0l3E8jxz8SWXkdb6ggJxhhEXBAi43iB1U8TkaFZv3EDDqzyVavk4B63XrAfe/s1600/Marching.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWp2HG9nyLsgV3f0NjsWS844AmJf6L6P3ZleXiHeiUAXMkfwqNqXhmX10JYIeqh9WWNg_mdZeXNmP1AMyW0l3E8jxz8SWXkdb6ggJxhhEXBAi43iB1U8TkaFZv3EDDqzyVavk4B63XrAfe/s640/Marching.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<i>the blue line reflects the march of the Freedonian Army through neutral Boozonia</i></div>
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In an outrageous act of aggression the Freedonain army marched through plague-stricken Boozonia to attack Ferndalia, Using secretly placed supplies they were able to keep up a blistering marching pace that made any response by the Boozonian army impossible. The Boozonian Lord High Constable, Gordon Ramsey, has ordered the Freedonian Ambassador to report to his office to answer an Inquiry as to these events, additionally he has closed the border with Freedonia.<br />
Upon debouching into the northern plains of Ferndalia the Freedonians found only local border-guards and militia opposing them. These troops were mostly viewed as an inconvenience. Resistance grew over time as the local Governors frantically gathered troops and ordered the burning of bridges and supplies to slow the Freedonian advance. At the tiny market town of Belmas the ancient stone bridge defied attempts to blow it up and the Ferndalians were forced to turn and confront their invaders.<br />
Having no time to file the troops across the narrow bridge the Ferndalians were forced to turn and fight. With a force of local militia, supported by a moldering cannon found on an estate, two units of Regular Foote and two brigades of Cuirassiers that had rushed to the scene from the Capitol they formed a line across the path of the invaders advance. Their flanks were guarded by two rivers that joined just behind their position, but this also meant that the only means of escape was that lone bridge to their left rear. Snacks and sandwiches were distributed along the line by the Students of the Culinary Academy, along with the last of the remaining ammunition. This would be a desperate fight indeed!<br />
The foot-sore soldiers of Louis the Ravenous were happy to see the enemy finally stop and face them. They had been marching almost non-stop for the last week and a half and were in a mood for a good brawl. They could scarcely believe their luck that the enemy chose to fight on this side of the bridge rather than retiring to defend the far bank. As the morning fog lifted they could see the serried ranks of the enemy across the battlefield, they were happy for the full breakfast they had just enjoyed but were concerned that lunch was unlikely to be served on time.<br />
This game was played using the <b>Tercio</b> rules from Liber Militium.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsHmfZXLzNlf340PjDZ5TjiaNY0GjQ4cKYeukSTS6qZUf0OSRWAJhyphenhyphen_dbWCOTQ6yscJNGYm2-ncIMPmd77NfPnx33j7Gi6a5y9Qda6fMB2eb9vXS-N4TvdmTtdWdafn4j0gmR-9krW0NNz/s1600/20200627_191906.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsHmfZXLzNlf340PjDZ5TjiaNY0GjQ4cKYeukSTS6qZUf0OSRWAJhyphenhyphen_dbWCOTQ6yscJNGYm2-ncIMPmd77NfPnx33j7Gi6a5y9Qda6fMB2eb9vXS-N4TvdmTtdWdafn4j0gmR-9krW0NNz/s400/20200627_191906.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div>
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<i>the Freedonian army right flank, (l to r) Chassuers, </i></div>
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<i>dragoons covering the front of the Heavy Cuirassiers,</i></div>
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<i> then a brigade of Reformed Squadron foot near the center</i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMbgvJr7bxwc_yBBnz3T9C0nexmFCfZPkP6EL6M5svgZcaTGKOrNjMYZmsDFXxkJaXbjqF_UZJMrSZvJd_7ssf35xeCsLZLJuVDy38ZnRDAJGDQKYSBhCDulVzYT_aSPZBfGauyuGdEWr4/s1600/20200627_191909.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMbgvJr7bxwc_yBBnz3T9C0nexmFCfZPkP6EL6M5svgZcaTGKOrNjMYZmsDFXxkJaXbjqF_UZJMrSZvJd_7ssf35xeCsLZLJuVDy38ZnRDAJGDQKYSBhCDulVzYT_aSPZBfGauyuGdEWr4/s400/20200627_191909.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div>
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<i>the left flank of the Freedonian army; (l to r) a brigade of Reformed Squadron foot covering the front of some mounted Arquebusiers, two battalions of Chassuers, and some Dragoons on the far flank. </i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAlSHYfWBcguLIXLMikQejET83LxoK9faX-pogxe4YZ3WX1NmZdkh61AAtmFnZuNhjJaOBCP-U2Mid9Rkn_I4oHDoLdrqmpF3kUlW9RB0-YJ_HEzt53LVJiNAFGT2KDDRSDZeTqkSlEpj9/s1600/20200627_191914.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAlSHYfWBcguLIXLMikQejET83LxoK9faX-pogxe4YZ3WX1NmZdkh61AAtmFnZuNhjJaOBCP-U2Mid9Rkn_I4oHDoLdrqmpF3kUlW9RB0-YJ_HEzt53LVJiNAFGT2KDDRSDZeTqkSlEpj9/s400/20200627_191914.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div>
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<i>facing them on the right of the Ferndalian army, (l to r) </i></div>
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<i>two units of militia foot in front of two squadrons Cuirassiers, </i></div>
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<i>on the far right three units of dragoons</i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmE7JTtkZ-JW_34ArI2j5fSmDCAY4I5EWYQY6bMbJ3SnpIcTTZG7xHXvGkYoXtIpggMoSluNsN3O5JYaAuguZj3b6a9K12bDQZk300HfB4i8SUyum8iiddyi8ijesnu1XkB9xY6lGRNd7q/s1600/20200627_191919.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmE7JTtkZ-JW_34ArI2j5fSmDCAY4I5EWYQY6bMbJ3SnpIcTTZG7xHXvGkYoXtIpggMoSluNsN3O5JYaAuguZj3b6a9K12bDQZk300HfB4i8SUyum8iiddyi8ijesnu1XkB9xY6lGRNd7q/s400/20200627_191919.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div>
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<i>the Ferndalian army's left wing (l to r); two units of militia foot in the front row, a lone battalion of regular foot, in the far lower left two squadrons of mounted Arquebusiers, occupying the town an armed mob, behind the town two squadrons of cuirassiers, to the right of the town a unit of regular foot and a heavy cannon</i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhi1YJGT8Ci1uokz53CPZfPIj7yO96UumH4QHPqL1FTI3NR7STSS1wBi-IDAuETYGS_N5nfMIFbca8OgPefjEy-ypDL646txpeSUBo0gaelfBEcoC-rAxSX27lzZ1_OeBijdPY4427fwtqx/s1600/20200627_192412.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhi1YJGT8Ci1uokz53CPZfPIj7yO96UumH4QHPqL1FTI3NR7STSS1wBi-IDAuETYGS_N5nfMIFbca8OgPefjEy-ypDL646txpeSUBo0gaelfBEcoC-rAxSX27lzZ1_OeBijdPY4427fwtqx/s400/20200627_192412.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div>
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<i>as the Freedonian troops advance the cannon opens fire at long range, </i></div>
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<i>making a great deal of noise but harming no one </i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhm2oHxf_IQuvpBMXS83_IzJY_iUvww2PsiCyCPR9T0YwiVzgq1dqbOoDyy8QwfZp7-vcnSq6MYCqUgnEWHw0ok77qsdCiq7iCFS3TKHUs8cv-aY4Q8NRE4axLzx3KW7XDjyqh9b4wwMA9C/s1600/20200627_192857.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhm2oHxf_IQuvpBMXS83_IzJY_iUvww2PsiCyCPR9T0YwiVzgq1dqbOoDyy8QwfZp7-vcnSq6MYCqUgnEWHw0ok77qsdCiq7iCFS3TKHUs8cv-aY4Q8NRE4axLzx3KW7XDjyqh9b4wwMA9C/s400/20200627_192857.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div>
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<i>as the enemy Dragoons come in the range the foot added their fire,</i></div>
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<i> with equally poor effect </i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOBQd11bQfiW05LBu4IvcEElYyaTD7UZy18ZLfkS7rY3iy-wu6bL0jfDOBDqoWFtSpqMV3g23_3uuL1Ytuqqs60jUTJFRZhbC8BELs2FtCT57T3frVByIOS_m6kJ4Y0obX-VErgz0efS1s/s1600/20200627_193250.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOBQd11bQfiW05LBu4IvcEElYyaTD7UZy18ZLfkS7rY3iy-wu6bL0jfDOBDqoWFtSpqMV3g23_3uuL1Ytuqqs60jUTJFRZhbC8BELs2FtCT57T3frVByIOS_m6kJ4Y0obX-VErgz0efS1s/s400/20200627_193250.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div>
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<i>the armed mob in the town finally score a hit on the cheeky Dragoons </i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfvK8jq9k02BI6NFSWFHdOmH-2tO0VOUW81S1fIvmhm6c6HpPl_akGJ5h2pE2w8kFVTIV0w859UoBs5ZFLv0W3ZBjaR2pHd3yFxLU0TmFRqCQo2p2DD2kmf8HPu-TTwJf8VAV8IBtfs6uu/s1600/20200627_193253.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfvK8jq9k02BI6NFSWFHdOmH-2tO0VOUW81S1fIvmhm6c6HpPl_akGJ5h2pE2w8kFVTIV0w859UoBs5ZFLv0W3ZBjaR2pHd3yFxLU0TmFRqCQo2p2DD2kmf8HPu-TTwJf8VAV8IBtfs6uu/s400/20200627_193253.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div>
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<i>on the Freedonian's right a freshly-plowed field slowed the advance of the Heavy Cuirassiers </i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgg41xqWLcP8zg22LPirZrHNxOISumVFTEz9EOJ5bL-ag4MJLd-QDqCMP9oWaQ-bSI59JcDmpoZu7DTSSY5IVv0qXyFI4bW9nr2a32tUAe55Lfx1KSjhr7TZBJ_dXxzAaB2FRZlirIRoeBO/s1600/20200627_193301.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgg41xqWLcP8zg22LPirZrHNxOISumVFTEz9EOJ5bL-ag4MJLd-QDqCMP9oWaQ-bSI59JcDmpoZu7DTSSY5IVv0qXyFI4bW9nr2a32tUAe55Lfx1KSjhr7TZBJ_dXxzAaB2FRZlirIRoeBO/s400/20200627_193301.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div>
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<i>in an effort to slow the envelopment of the weak right wing the Ferndalians </i></div>
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<i>pushed forward the Dragoon brigade hoping to use the cover of the hedges </i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvPBf6tzGUfUm8pd5jSfKcq2uTs-y2XFq7TlhoJw1XPDU3Ku4j9-r4Bl_XIafbVkm4ELfVzR27CBVh0vdPxLzh0mWBM1QlTpqsUIPShpX8zRpq8lDZKf_hehQaKpA0GjD3HThIuyDHNBa0/s1600/20200627_194617.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvPBf6tzGUfUm8pd5jSfKcq2uTs-y2XFq7TlhoJw1XPDU3Ku4j9-r4Bl_XIafbVkm4ELfVzR27CBVh0vdPxLzh0mWBM1QlTpqsUIPShpX8zRpq8lDZKf_hehQaKpA0GjD3HThIuyDHNBa0/s400/20200627_194617.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div>
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<i>but the hedge row seemed to provide little cover, </i></div>
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<i>fire from the Freedonian light troops and Dragoons broke one unit before it got a shot off </i></div>
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<i>(I'm blaming those red jackets for making then such easy targets!)</i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi24qurGRyy6B0QYLw1uTo5r9Fp_Nv5ESyXoLU_QWWC5B2DXQFtt-pU3ZUCI9Ok1lxb0DQFmNvbMLBE3w7-OFHMEsF4mzVKU1K5hr-mudgV7alTzVXYsN1nHzlfirpD7VJraQn5XsLF4JC1/s1600/20200627_194623.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi24qurGRyy6B0QYLw1uTo5r9Fp_Nv5ESyXoLU_QWWC5B2DXQFtt-pU3ZUCI9Ok1lxb0DQFmNvbMLBE3w7-OFHMEsF4mzVKU1K5hr-mudgV7alTzVXYsN1nHzlfirpD7VJraQn5XsLF4JC1/s400/20200627_194623.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div>
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<i>the other Dragoons returned fire to avenge their brothers </i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1h5JnBVYN47nGfgy8UYJSmBy5Wkf0CRBj6yH7TiYhiLiQVhE_4fR20wvZ96swHYhEqpbllHRsJ0SIByrUElYCwPRL0TBoVlvBuX_wWk7rKYLdADp1r8iEgvt_4gDcZKzy623I5cyTGppC/s1600/20200627_194725.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1h5JnBVYN47nGfgy8UYJSmBy5Wkf0CRBj6yH7TiYhiLiQVhE_4fR20wvZ96swHYhEqpbllHRsJ0SIByrUElYCwPRL0TBoVlvBuX_wWk7rKYLdADp1r8iEgvt_4gDcZKzy623I5cyTGppC/s400/20200627_194725.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div>
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<i>even with their Brigadier adding a die they failed to score a single hit </i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNR-1cm_fbgLdxTtzoJrlP1SpLoWF3wXFSB6V8YsUlgfSA68q1uLNk9wxq4eaJOBiwEAnhu7x5nnWo8mQ_r9zPdYW-RKBhjKpYAEmCz5_nR8esXbU5hmezapxTt7gawrE7ErtRrUdVIAsf/s1600/20200627_195007.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNR-1cm_fbgLdxTtzoJrlP1SpLoWF3wXFSB6V8YsUlgfSA68q1uLNk9wxq4eaJOBiwEAnhu7x5nnWo8mQ_r9zPdYW-RKBhjKpYAEmCz5_nR8esXbU5hmezapxTt7gawrE7ErtRrUdVIAsf/s400/20200627_195007.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div>
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<i>but in the center the Ferndalian dragoons were paying the price </i></div>
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<i>of acting as a "meat-shield" for the advancing foot </i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjerU4F3DsDWuCoVuN7LJsRx1jXsFBg9_zoK43csGCvTICCrpYh2MHauvgRcByS8ZVHB6foKYnzL5UZqiujXqDeESys4aL61ndlgnVVFHYS4k0oRLkJKxyzUeupwk-NG_Vw8oIYH-uPesJf/s1600/20200627_202621.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjerU4F3DsDWuCoVuN7LJsRx1jXsFBg9_zoK43csGCvTICCrpYh2MHauvgRcByS8ZVHB6foKYnzL5UZqiujXqDeESys4aL61ndlgnVVFHYS4k0oRLkJKxyzUeupwk-NG_Vw8oIYH-uPesJf/s400/20200627_202621.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div>
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<i>on the left the Ferndalians threw the brigade of Mounted Arquebusiers forward </i></div>
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<i>to slow the advance of the mass of Freedonian troops, </i></div>
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<i>a goodly traffic-jam resulted but Arquebusiers suffered heavily for their action </i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVEFhq09d4Wz5P2sVLtUyk7t1bAwVsvdIt7DzTTSDA8uFqzybqtd45A-PE3TM2e_CsB9EVsdTEjue8b6v-YqX5evemGL8hGy2QO7gLtkrwdgaWlv5m5lqAFTivXZaWRYma3xQxLarS9fAp/s1600/20200627_202629.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVEFhq09d4Wz5P2sVLtUyk7t1bAwVsvdIt7DzTTSDA8uFqzybqtd45A-PE3TM2e_CsB9EVsdTEjue8b6v-YqX5evemGL8hGy2QO7gLtkrwdgaWlv5m5lqAFTivXZaWRYma3xQxLarS9fAp/s400/20200627_202629.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div>
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<i>in the center the Freedonian foot advanced rapidly with</i></div>
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<i> their Mounted Arquebusiers following looking for a gap to exploit,</i></div>
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<i>on the far left the students of the Culinary School of The Small Plate opened fire on the invaders</i></div>
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<i> as the Ferndalian Dragoons decided to abandon the unequal firefight and retire</i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYzMRI0dyxpwpnlcG2c0Fg9GgvXIi-P6QWI9XH4lh0Q1FrNtWW-QMo0E0B4VVvTSnqNL8iR51QdEK-bvxxSUGKpaQIgxIcnkx1vKJNBRK3yAn791jjzkcDmP8kwsnLFfhnnfjS_yM2uC0V/s1600/20200627_220358.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYzMRI0dyxpwpnlcG2c0Fg9GgvXIi-P6QWI9XH4lh0Q1FrNtWW-QMo0E0B4VVvTSnqNL8iR51QdEK-bvxxSUGKpaQIgxIcnkx1vKJNBRK3yAn791jjzkcDmP8kwsnLFfhnnfjS_yM2uC0V/s400/20200627_220358.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div>
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<i>the next turn saw the Freedonians very aggressively exploit the retirement of the Ferndalian dragoons, pushing forward the entire brigade of Mounted Arquebusiers to engage the militia foot, toward the center the combined fire of the cannon and regular foot had broken one of the Freedonian Reformed Foot, far the rear the Chassuers had begun a tit-for-tat exchange with the Students</i></div>
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<i><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6DrjkJQaXTphVDeFPYWORLZvDQZNqwZWsXacotKeMxgdMpARgvWkn9ZtAtMzw8zzFmGanX_aEqiIv-BJF1b14y2BunO0WvllwUjtxRKCKuLFsvJ8cDwuHGVHA7W21XFinzHTzjAfbzlgu/s1600/20200627_220403.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6DrjkJQaXTphVDeFPYWORLZvDQZNqwZWsXacotKeMxgdMpARgvWkn9ZtAtMzw8zzFmGanX_aEqiIv-BJF1b14y2BunO0WvllwUjtxRKCKuLFsvJ8cDwuHGVHA7W21XFinzHTzjAfbzlgu/s400/20200627_220403.jpg" width="400" /> </a></i></div>
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<i>in the center the Freedonian Dragoons had withdrawn to reorganize,</i></div>
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<i>leaving the center of the battlefield oddly vacant </i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxkXmeQ1r1ik8Gdc7dO7WEoFo7n-yPKe87rtQKXPIB69cV07Q2hJkF6yNJ3zXBXCK0Xag__uXvgXl2HNIIxKbdcL_1JrxrhUjUxLbhkjrTMTV1iLUeliCFgS5lZWeLXVQ5LU2ZPDGjlD9L/s1600/20200627_220408.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxkXmeQ1r1ik8Gdc7dO7WEoFo7n-yPKe87rtQKXPIB69cV07Q2hJkF6yNJ3zXBXCK0Xag__uXvgXl2HNIIxKbdcL_1JrxrhUjUxLbhkjrTMTV1iLUeliCFgS5lZWeLXVQ5LU2ZPDGjlD9L/s400/20200627_220408.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div>
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<i>but on the left action had become general; astride, and next to, the road the Freedonian Reformed foot and the Ferndalian militia exchanged fire while on the far left the Freedonian Heavy Cuirassiers began grinding their way through the Ferndalian cavalry, by the end of the turn one of the Freedonian foot had been driven off but the Ferndalians had lost a militia unit and had several cavalry units almost exhausted</i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiM4Wa4ejP8Z8l4SvdCzOgwjmY2krDCtEqwskwkPUCXaSbT2hKtrTGqpB_Ah1xTfDX-8ROciTocnpwOyKpoIiBEaUw7GhJjXGnxiJCfXZ3Gqv_n41n5i9TpbBYOhHpz8ebx6uXzfh80K7CN/s1600/20200627_223728.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiM4Wa4ejP8Z8l4SvdCzOgwjmY2krDCtEqwskwkPUCXaSbT2hKtrTGqpB_Ah1xTfDX-8ROciTocnpwOyKpoIiBEaUw7GhJjXGnxiJCfXZ3Gqv_n41n5i9TpbBYOhHpz8ebx6uXzfh80K7CN/s400/20200627_223728.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div>
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<i>the next turn saw far less fighting as everyone was trying to reorganize, </i></div>
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<i>a few units exchanged fire but little else happened </i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhD00eeBH_aeufdrGxBR2gowcl60T0wqxxdqmxQfVizxiBEcGwV7lz6K0c3WIA0ImxTRKQlbiybBCk9yMysI0dR_3xgRIqXJahRhTDEaGCDYgQ1g2-Tb7CCQJrWa4VF91rIAZrIwDpi73X/s1600/20200627_223732.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhD00eeBH_aeufdrGxBR2gowcl60T0wqxxdqmxQfVizxiBEcGwV7lz6K0c3WIA0ImxTRKQlbiybBCk9yMysI0dR_3xgRIqXJahRhTDEaGCDYgQ1g2-Tb7CCQJrWa4VF91rIAZrIwDpi73X/s400/20200627_223732.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div>
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<i>in the center furious fire from the Ferndalian cannon and foot units had managed to break the last Freedonian reformed foot unit, but it also saw the rout of one of the militia units under the unrelenting fire of the Mounted Arquebusuiers</i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEje4KEBqBCKKZSqMjA81Z9EVNrZhyphenhyphenRzOOKzLx3AWQ3LEpZBrS-r169aWtXwkmh1za_sUSpqRN064aI4mdV9gAv9cmNE82W-jGIMXA_-GqO9Meqg2rfyrJBSPhRI2lgjlmsxtF8qBRSRRueJ/s1600/20200627_223737.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEje4KEBqBCKKZSqMjA81Z9EVNrZhyphenhyphenRzOOKzLx3AWQ3LEpZBrS-r169aWtXwkmh1za_sUSpqRN064aI4mdV9gAv9cmNE82W-jGIMXA_-GqO9Meqg2rfyrJBSPhRI2lgjlmsxtF8qBRSRRueJ/s400/20200627_223737.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div>
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<i>far off to the right the Ferndalian dragoons had attempted to take the pressure off the militia</i></div>
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<i>but their fire (once again!) had failed to inflict any casualties </i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiylovxkl3_l905WLsyrmqvDk2FH9hqhs7H1x3Pl6SP1zzXUjD5fIB3ws15vvrSjgtHr4NQz4C1248z7RNnlvf9MIBMX7i_wRLgHVC-mBvY1U3AyHkAsPBeYigEDxS-wfeBxetzy32LjdEe/s1600/20200627_225647.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiylovxkl3_l905WLsyrmqvDk2FH9hqhs7H1x3Pl6SP1zzXUjD5fIB3ws15vvrSjgtHr4NQz4C1248z7RNnlvf9MIBMX7i_wRLgHVC-mBvY1U3AyHkAsPBeYigEDxS-wfeBxetzy32LjdEe/s400/20200627_225647.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div>
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<i>back on the left the Ferndalian cavalry were desperately trying to rally and reorganize,</i></div>
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<i> while this was going on a Heavy Cuirassier unit charged the militia foot on the roadway,</i></div>
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<i>routing them in one turn, the foot all fired ineffectually </i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCFNjIoIePdjMV06Sf3ZK7oh40n3D26ILMu6C5VG_PN20J5HSl4JDHdXoLMsj8JcwOCSWg6407E6_s8mFkwZaejE1BCS-jh0tka490DqzAeVlHS-kYadLGW74tBKMmmhi3z5Twh3ypfKKg/s1600/20200627_225650.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCFNjIoIePdjMV06Sf3ZK7oh40n3D26ILMu6C5VG_PN20J5HSl4JDHdXoLMsj8JcwOCSWg6407E6_s8mFkwZaejE1BCS-jh0tka490DqzAeVlHS-kYadLGW74tBKMmmhi3z5Twh3ypfKKg/s400/20200627_225650.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div>
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<i>in the center the Ferndalians took advantage of the lull</i></div>
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<i> to withdraw their cannon and retire the militia's flank </i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhG3zKxS53JoPNNjidyEmRw5tK8pTTblQxSc-y0PoqLNRguY4xaQPdSYAi-lz2qczTGeWyT0UaezSQ4gu5IPD0Lw93-HF3K6kP555lajtTH5eb3_clKdbGPl5CN-HdU7npv01cLm0DLXxjU/s1600/20200627_225654.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhG3zKxS53JoPNNjidyEmRw5tK8pTTblQxSc-y0PoqLNRguY4xaQPdSYAi-lz2qczTGeWyT0UaezSQ4gu5IPD0Lw93-HF3K6kP555lajtTH5eb3_clKdbGPl5CN-HdU7npv01cLm0DLXxjU/s400/20200627_225654.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div>
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<i>the fire from the Freedonian Mounted Arquebusiers was without pause</i></div>
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<i>while the fire from the Ferndalian Dragoons was (surprised, anyone?) without impact </i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfUj_TpmpmxR_tK1P2o8WFLD_ty7MT9uJzXkWxcF5Mg1MoLIFBgq603ICjO-9XqY2HIfKP2JgJVAqazMCixkoGEe03OKrhHf4rda70HLvisxZmfde1M8MUvy0cdUV4r4m1LwP9RR2hTZGD/s1600/20200627_225659.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfUj_TpmpmxR_tK1P2o8WFLD_ty7MT9uJzXkWxcF5Mg1MoLIFBgq603ICjO-9XqY2HIfKP2JgJVAqazMCixkoGEe03OKrhHf4rda70HLvisxZmfde1M8MUvy0cdUV4r4m1LwP9RR2hTZGD/s400/20200627_225659.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div>
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<i>meanwhile, back at the Culinary Arts School, both sides exchanged shots with equal honors </i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLMbK8MUU-8sI6hnB30c0nygXckioUv8xIjtCd5jJcuitigMC_VoRQfRz6l4_xxZD4QmTVc55HABza8vVg29bpqbfRWxdP2lHrw45kisbF6HVlQARCs75RAJ12qztBrWhWpTuVnLFe37qA/s1600/20200627_231540.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLMbK8MUU-8sI6hnB30c0nygXckioUv8xIjtCd5jJcuitigMC_VoRQfRz6l4_xxZD4QmTVc55HABza8vVg29bpqbfRWxdP2lHrw45kisbF6HVlQARCs75RAJ12qztBrWhWpTuVnLFe37qA/s400/20200627_231540.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div>
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<i>once more on the left; </i></div>
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<i> the horrific killing-machine that was the Freedonian Heavy Cuirassiers destroyed the remaining militia foot unit and proceeded to ignore fire from three units of Ferndalian troops </i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9KOZSJCCKXRIH9VTVcqXUuWTQf0oONO8tVvnTJSa43XM3vBjDS3JoJW51Fb4b6wWxHdLOiW8jwST7lz1aR5gxzHX3i8sgvn1GAagbo2z9EnPoSTHbnLdx3pyqmvABURxyJGMJ-JQMAO4z/s1600/20200627_231543.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9KOZSJCCKXRIH9VTVcqXUuWTQf0oONO8tVvnTJSa43XM3vBjDS3JoJW51Fb4b6wWxHdLOiW8jwST7lz1aR5gxzHX3i8sgvn1GAagbo2z9EnPoSTHbnLdx3pyqmvABURxyJGMJ-JQMAO4z/s400/20200627_231543.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div>
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<i>while in the center; the Freedonian Dragoons, (fully rested from several turns of reorganization) returned to add their firepower to that of the Mounted Arquebusiers assailing the dwindling Ferndalian troops on the center and right, fire was exchanged all around to little effect</i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhZdLLSrZoIKyzs48VMSx0PuWiKYOz2NqCmeD1BubRs51qGbXjJrVMsZfS4_cioF9NfAfDJ_P05lUbHdS0U9n7QpJDuH-27pFsyHPGk_S6hn8veTCxg8xsLg9oDcxm-d8xMcC0tCqr6hBX/s1600/20200627_231547.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhZdLLSrZoIKyzs48VMSx0PuWiKYOz2NqCmeD1BubRs51qGbXjJrVMsZfS4_cioF9NfAfDJ_P05lUbHdS0U9n7QpJDuH-27pFsyHPGk_S6hn8veTCxg8xsLg9oDcxm-d8xMcC0tCqr6hBX/s400/20200627_231547.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div>
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<i>the Ferndalian dragoons on the far right, </i></div>
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<i>feeling justifiably lonely, finally managed to score a few hits,</i></div>
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<i> but they took more in return</i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLPy4Ji1Bwz3sw8gbJYLfuPcHEQS5_yJcmZda_3BaoDnlRvArzN-NT7fDGIUYSU8OtrKh3s6WwfG73VpVkxZUrh672M1xveUz0g93psTlOH88iQB5iKinXssiaL5JLkOTRcRO0m1o6Jzao/s1600/20200627_232835.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLPy4Ji1Bwz3sw8gbJYLfuPcHEQS5_yJcmZda_3BaoDnlRvArzN-NT7fDGIUYSU8OtrKh3s6WwfG73VpVkxZUrh672M1xveUz0g93psTlOH88iQB5iKinXssiaL5JLkOTRcRO0m1o6Jzao/s400/20200627_232835.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div>
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<i>back to the left where we find that one of the Heavy Cuirassiers has finally managed to fail a Courage Test and has been wiped out by fire, thus leaving only one such unit causing havoc, fire at that unit by the Mounted Arquebusiers was (of course) without issue </i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkEtPXpH7YxpOzD2cYssufkjy30NBtG1m9HPXO2lz6T9rRfVcpHxR2PPvJMQ1hmoVDfdHsjQ1e3PNEFdJTgypFP4ZedZfllZ9YcYyctwGqOlLSO-Dz4cOp9M9Bpv4M6-0RN9H9IWRNyuRH/s1600/20200627_232847.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkEtPXpH7YxpOzD2cYssufkjy30NBtG1m9HPXO2lz6T9rRfVcpHxR2PPvJMQ1hmoVDfdHsjQ1e3PNEFdJTgypFP4ZedZfllZ9YcYyctwGqOlLSO-Dz4cOp9M9Bpv4M6-0RN9H9IWRNyuRH/s400/20200627_232847.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div>
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<i>seeing the small effect they were having on the enemy Dragoons (and the battle at large) the Ferndalian Dragoons beat a hasty retreat to a position on the flank of the last remaining militia unit who were suffering from the combined fire of the Freedonian Mounted Arquebusiers and Chassuers </i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZwVLz2CJe6nxUjwDvdiqlcisxOOQlTjR1L5zaJE_TL01nEXSAXiB7dmZuP6_T7RAKeKGY8I-93BEU77TRYWtvA8-U1lfMMvbaGRDQdzppyHFyHj4RGXBJm5SSKxeU15RzXuIQlG8Z19nt/s1600/20200627_232841.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZwVLz2CJe6nxUjwDvdiqlcisxOOQlTjR1L5zaJE_TL01nEXSAXiB7dmZuP6_T7RAKeKGY8I-93BEU77TRYWtvA8-U1lfMMvbaGRDQdzppyHFyHj4RGXBJm5SSKxeU15RzXuIQlG8Z19nt/s400/20200627_232841.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div>
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<i>at this point night was falling, the Freedonians lacked any formed foot to try to capture the town or the bridge and broke off the action, on the Ferndalian side they were out of powder and shot (a total of one turn of general fire left) and their cavalry were wrecked, the two regular foot units retired in good order covering the retreat of the cannon and the remaining other troops to fortify the opposite bank of the river and deny the Freedonians a crossing here</i></div>
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Anton Ryzbakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07844552779982758219noreply@blogger.com1