tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1509150733623259282024-02-29T21:39:27.635-08:00Gathering of HostsLand of the 4 Winds Campaign: Old Figures playing New GamesRoss Mac rmacfa@gmail.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04053555991679802013noreply@blogger.comBlogger240125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-150915073362325928.post-73820329479798254172024-02-06T13:40:00.000-08:002024-02-06T13:42:48.769-08:00They Shall Not Pass!<p><b><i><u>OOPS! </u></i></b> I just discovered that I did not finish this battle report from last June! Well, hopefully late is better than never. Good thing I have some pictures at least.</p><p>This game was a revenge attack from the Great Raid launched in the previous year against the Midlish Kingdom's Eastern Frontier. (See <a href="https://gatheringofhosts.blogspot.com/2021/12/fight-for-ford.html">Fight at the Ford</a> and the <a href="https://gatheringofhosts.blogspot.com/2022/01/a-bit-of-whimsy.html" target="_blank">stop motion video report on the following clash</a>).</p><p>This game followed a year later when the Midlands launched a revenge raid against the Valdurian province of the Northern Federation. In expectations of a counter raid, border guards were posted along the frontier to watch and raise the alarm if, or <b><i>when, </i></b>it came, and to hold until relieved. </p><p><b style="text-align: center;"><i>ALARM! SOUND THE HORNS! TO ARMS!</i></b></p><p><b style="text-align: center;"><i>LIGHT THE BEACONS!</i></b></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsHiBOIR6-VkJufpmrsmPlm4TJ8BjjrG_SO5eh2PFzeHHdhg9L48_PSb4z9syMiR9GelWJnuMVXFR7kIiaVLHly1CvHwTQBS4eWG8nwgKh2cGzqXF5uK0NN0Ih5jkHJF9ls0ONSBNuO6TXFm2hLaqsNs_3mJ4eZCUaFRM-ASGkYFytugY5wABX5rNucrM/s4160/Duck_start.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3120" data-original-width="4160" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsHiBOIR6-VkJufpmrsmPlm4TJ8BjjrG_SO5eh2PFzeHHdhg9L48_PSb4z9syMiR9GelWJnuMVXFR7kIiaVLHly1CvHwTQBS4eWG8nwgKh2cGzqXF5uK0NN0Ih5jkHJF9ls0ONSBNuO6TXFm2hLaqsNs_3mJ4eZCUaFRM-ASGkYFytugY5wABX5rNucrM/w640-h480/Duck_start.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i> The Northern Federation Horse Guards and some of the local Valdurian tribesmen were first to arrive.</i></b></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9ycmnlvsr_P1GQC2ZupRt3OmV75N5HMgtOzyFUWVfUBFUM9S92qjcmPw54e6lFgYvMb-8ow14KXS4eaSmY0eZwtQbBxa8KIekI5qBEFCAj8c4CFsv49f4F0gGVnmR-oC2FtTLFIH24VCoZadEJaRslevc4ywEuV-tA1Wky1p-fATcg_6QGr3ox9LgJNM/s4160/Duck_start%20(1).jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3120" data-original-width="4160" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9ycmnlvsr_P1GQC2ZupRt3OmV75N5HMgtOzyFUWVfUBFUM9S92qjcmPw54e6lFgYvMb-8ow14KXS4eaSmY0eZwtQbBxa8KIekI5qBEFCAj8c4CFsv49f4F0gGVnmR-oC2FtTLFIH24VCoZadEJaRslevc4ywEuV-tA1Wky1p-fATcg_6QGr3ox9LgJNM/w640-h480/Duck_start%20(1).jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>The Valdurian light troops relied on ambush and missile fire to slow down the invaders until help arrived.</i></b></td></tr></tbody></table><p><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhah3_Cppu0Z7UVML4yi-rM5UzkX-DKDLNJ-KYbrAkg86lZLnhVaRhbACDKhZYgkZ87HzKhln7bPQCGtMskXzdlDfUkDUou-WPnQe7xQxAHFTdrcAHFVg-slSkRYtMBNN0zRDBO8NILer6jPpjq3UGRBPo7_479fd2GN6v_wesUV5TovEsdmTzMy_7LJ9o/s4160/Duck_game_end.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3120" data-original-width="4160" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhah3_Cppu0Z7UVML4yi-rM5UzkX-DKDLNJ-KYbrAkg86lZLnhVaRhbACDKhZYgkZ87HzKhln7bPQCGtMskXzdlDfUkDUou-WPnQe7xQxAHFTdrcAHFVg-slSkRYtMBNN0zRDBO8NILer6jPpjq3UGRBPo7_479fd2GN6v_wesUV5TovEsdmTzMy_7LJ9o/w640-h480/Duck_game_end.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>After a fierce and bloody fight, the Black Knight, Captain of the Pass and Commander of the expedition, fell prisoner to the Captain of the Federation Horse Guards and the battle was over.</i></b></td></tr></tbody></table><p><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwKELLm7523KdBktrsAmC9tewgIA85qjCuio3DdredbWjwkVpXdkNJaZrZQHxa62cPPhvdR5ZLy2jSzJqjA--AMa3wA1dzbiTs8Bsv8VSC2Fhp2k_AwxpvG5Up4nFY-LfoDGnX5m4R9DOa7X4zrmRCxaTQM1Z4-yIcU9D5kuAlrdaLKS6iMLTUU4oBLpw/s3826/Duck_losses.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2670" data-original-width="3826" height="446" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwKELLm7523KdBktrsAmC9tewgIA85qjCuio3DdredbWjwkVpXdkNJaZrZQHxa62cPPhvdR5ZLy2jSzJqjA--AMa3wA1dzbiTs8Bsv8VSC2Fhp2k_AwxpvG5Up4nFY-LfoDGnX5m4R9DOa7X4zrmRCxaTQM1Z4-yIcU9D5kuAlrdaLKS6iMLTUU4oBLpw/w640-h446/Duck_losses.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><b>Legend has it that the ghosts of the fallen rise and fight amongst the woods and fields each year on the night of the anniversary of the battle.</b></i></td></tr></tbody></table><p><br /></p><p><br /></p>Ross Mac rmacfa@gmail.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04053555991679802013noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-150915073362325928.post-66393084907949726992023-06-20T15:12:00.000-07:002023-06-20T15:12:03.876-07:00The Watchers in the Pass<p>After last year's raid into the East Watch of the Midlands, the Federation had been waiting and watching for a response from the Midlands. In the woods at the mouth of the Black Pass, the Old Ones watched the roads that the Steel Men might take. Long before the Midlish riders emerged, the word had been passed. </p><p><br /></p><p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5QUWEMeSatoFpL_ZvKeG200JsRujV8LTJKgJNTLgjoZfBsBZsgScLX3nkmW2kKO73HV2RoPXemPt_XNisK9E10OcdDNxvw5b7ITXrBh3r_R9au8mHuOUpdVy87b8AglKIpnMyKLL4rtYVqaPa_6xL7PoeV92YgaSheWPa_G9iRnLfjKErDWf1_lcTcGo/s3760/Watchers.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2477" data-original-width="3760" height="422" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5QUWEMeSatoFpL_ZvKeG200JsRujV8LTJKgJNTLgjoZfBsBZsgScLX3nkmW2kKO73HV2RoPXemPt_XNisK9E10OcdDNxvw5b7ITXrBh3r_R9au8mHuOUpdVy87b8AglKIpnMyKLL4rtYVqaPa_6xL7PoeV92YgaSheWPa_G9iRnLfjKErDWf1_lcTcGo/w640-h422/Watchers.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><h3><span style="text-align: left;">"</span><b style="text-align: left;"><i>Hurry!</i></b><i style="text-align: left;"><b> They are coming!</b></i><span style="text-align: left;">"</span></h3></td></tr></tbody></table><br /> to be continued........<br /><br />(<i><b>Note:</b> The archers in the wood are home cast Prince August orcs. I originally painted these weird, hairless, brutes a greenish hue but they never looked right to me. Yesterday I decided to fix them so repainted their flesh and added shaggy hair and beard. Now they fit in! </i>)</p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p>Ross Mac rmacfa@gmail.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04053555991679802013noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-150915073362325928.post-5895528520448491612023-06-17T12:52:00.001-07:002023-06-17T12:52:10.145-07:00To Arms! The Beacons Are Lit! <p>Who will answer?</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlMLDq3ZRFWv7aNC15oX_sFa-RRDShhVlFk_IJzxiDkAG9Jh0aJCY49QJe_GEfVtIjGyAIg4SNnByKzTOOOvnH_DIZnhR5TyXIBVbcwxaAcB4nRMfMPIy7cgeP4R8Y-CUgRyRwnf6mo0lro5mi9PiHosZrbR759bSlzBPGhwkAruw3fYX5X5P-BcDk/s4160/Minifigs%20refurbished.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3120" data-original-width="4160" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlMLDq3ZRFWv7aNC15oX_sFa-RRDShhVlFk_IJzxiDkAG9Jh0aJCY49QJe_GEfVtIjGyAIg4SNnByKzTOOOvnH_DIZnhR5TyXIBVbcwxaAcB4nRMfMPIy7cgeP4R8Y-CUgRyRwnf6mo0lro5mi9PiHosZrbR759bSlzBPGhwkAruw3fYX5X5P-BcDk/w640-h480/Minifigs%20refurbished.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><h3><span style="text-align: left;"><b><i>Prince Wyngnuht, 8th of his name, and the Valdurians!</i></b></span></h3></td></tr></tbody></table><p>"(<i>Oh great, the 50 year veterans.....</i>)"......."<b>ANYONE ELSE?</b>......"</p><p><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjz8k7KFNMKnQy8ut0HJcNrBwmpa_fAUzwy70gGhWGY6TpMJY0Wfc4VEO-FpCK24EIX7jSwu3eynTNBdXl8jILksXp4zXl2hU0HUPL5QjqeO8hl6XRXn8_pVX5CgX6QZtP44ESPBjmw1vcwehfV9BIsC6U8M3E-RfR2e9uzTucZV5YR8GsWqQjlOU40/s4121/Dale.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2809" data-original-width="4121" height="436" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjz8k7KFNMKnQy8ut0HJcNrBwmpa_fAUzwy70gGhWGY6TpMJY0Wfc4VEO-FpCK24EIX7jSwu3eynTNBdXl8jILksXp4zXl2hU0HUPL5QjqeO8hl6XRXn8_pVX5CgX6QZtP44ESPBjmw1vcwehfV9BIsC6U8M3E-RfR2e9uzTucZV5YR8GsWqQjlOU40/w640-h436/Dale.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><h3>"<b><i>The Men of Dale and 2 Squadrons of the Horse Guards!</i></b>"</h3></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p>"(<i>Well, more would have been better, but that's something anyway.</i>")</p><p> </p><p>Brave Men! The Foe is upon us! The enemy desires to cross the Duck River, burn your farms and drag your families into slavery! It is up to <b><i>YOU</i></b> to <b><i>STOP THEM!</i></b>.</p>Ross Mac rmacfa@gmail.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04053555991679802013noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-150915073362325928.post-85047373598730747882023-06-12T07:00:00.005-07:002023-06-13T04:27:35.806-07:00Revenge!<p>It has been 18 months since the Great Raid on the Eastern March of the Midlands. When his anger is fresh and hot, a warrior's anger may cloud his judgement. </p><p>Now, tempers have cooled and the damage made good. With summer approaching, the Duke's messengers have been dispatched to his nobles.......</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBBXiixqsxScZgoinJMWGooeJCf9_Yw4vXIL7yi85OhKQjXgGGUfaRYHOpwWT57SFy9ST-pe0cwI0Pi08MBD7kfbT3zPysHEBY2dcPQL1T0Z1_yi5f2NopJoOsEXbeGPJPLdU7ANJwnjHCphNv3sCxU5wiQa6Z8QeBw4YR3sCaR67O9L9PaaUXGApy/s3600/Revenge.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2481" data-original-width="3600" height="442" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBBXiixqsxScZgoinJMWGooeJCf9_Yw4vXIL7yi85OhKQjXgGGUfaRYHOpwWT57SFy9ST-pe0cwI0Pi08MBD7kfbT3zPysHEBY2dcPQL1T0Z1_yi5f2NopJoOsEXbeGPJPLdU7ANJwnjHCphNv3sCxU5wiQa6Z8QeBw4YR3sCaR67O9L9PaaUXGApy/w640-h442/Revenge.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b style="text-align: left;"><i>" The dish is cold, it is time to eat!"</i></b></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p><br /></p><p><b><i><br /></i></b></p>Ross Mac rmacfa@gmail.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04053555991679802013noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-150915073362325928.post-91727223752790473102022-01-09T19:11:00.004-08:002022-01-09T20:07:34.367-08:00A Bit of Whimsy<p> Today Rob (<a href="http://sharpbrush.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Sharp End of the Brush</a> blog) and I played a remote game to test the draft of the Gathering of Hosts rules. There were a few little hitches like a case of contradicting information appearing in two different places having been missed during proofreading, situations which had yet to be covered or where a where something was lacking, and so on, but overall it had the sort of feel I wanted. A good start. </p><p>Unfortunately, I haven't fixed my issues with using the webcam I bought so I once again used my phone and we were using Discord and on the mobile version, I couldn't figure out on the fly how to do screen shots, and hadn't lined up an alternate camera, so......no pics. Sorry. </p><p>I was going to stage some photos afterword but in a sudden flash of silliness, I decided to try making a quick stop motion battle report video, My first attempt at first stop motion ever, and without proper preparation, like a script and a plan etc as well as some technical glitches such as thinking I had successfully hit pause but hadn't allowing the Friendly Giant's hand to appear)! But it was fun. </p><p>Here's part 1, the beginning. (<i>The video turned into 3 because I twice hit stop instead of pause and I can't seem to use any of the software I have to edit videos</i>.)</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/EJXalZIaUbg" width="320" youtube-src-id="EJXalZIaUbg"></iframe></div><br /><p>Part 2: Attack on the hill:</p><p><br /></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Z-nPAC_TCvw" width="320" youtube-src-id="Z-nPAC_TCvw"></iframe></div><br /> <p></p><p>Part 3: The end.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/wVgzMeTFpyo" width="320" youtube-src-id="wVgzMeTFpyo"></iframe></div><br /><p>I need to figure out how to use the equipment I have until I can get something better and sit down and plan it out with scripts etc rather than improvising but you never know, there could be some more and better animated battle videos in the future! </p>Ross Mac rmacfa@gmail.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04053555991679802013noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-150915073362325928.post-80637783988978436782022-01-08T09:59:00.000-08:002022-01-08T09:59:05.667-08:00Call The Banners!<p> Word has spread, the barbarians from the north are loose in the Midlands. All nobles and knights are to muster their fighting men, prepare their strongholds and send their pledged contingent to the Earl's muster.</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh6ShnMCIWZsKhI2WEKGl56oyosESIksk5BCP6z8jRIRETo5i54VZe3AqtmGevxllA8B0e1JUK60sfgM_9l0m7UGX2v6FSxabX6UPsxhKNyw4-4VaWwaoaQoG8vGW_y82WFmxWl2rVaooPi0FO2hqLMcwWntX_oF0V17DkOeqNmlzhtQGxE6FrelSxG=s3067" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1738" data-original-width="3067" height="362" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh6ShnMCIWZsKhI2WEKGl56oyosESIksk5BCP6z8jRIRETo5i54VZe3AqtmGevxllA8B0e1JUK60sfgM_9l0m7UGX2v6FSxabX6UPsxhKNyw4-4VaWwaoaQoG8vGW_y82WFmxWl2rVaooPi0FO2hqLMcwWntX_oF0V17DkOeqNmlzhtQGxE6FrelSxG=w640-h362" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><b>Sir Peter Phlathead musters his veterans.</b><br />(1/2 my old Prince August and Ral Partha figures, 1/2 my brother-in-law's old Ral Partha's from the '80's. All being repaired and touched up where needed.</i>)</td></tr></tbody></table><p>There's likely to be a battle soon.</p>Ross Mac rmacfa@gmail.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04053555991679802013noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-150915073362325928.post-46640731669552115542021-12-04T19:51:00.001-08:002021-12-04T19:51:32.939-08:00Fight For The Ford<div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: left;">It did not take long for the Federation scouts to find fords and begin crossing the river, but it was long enough for Sir John of Raven's Wood Tower, Captain of the Pass, to arrive with a detachment of the Black Guards.</div><br /><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LbOc8-kALGU/YavZ39cbapI/AAAAAAAAws0/3aXlFqIyPvQ_i44heu6y3On9PRcPMjSagCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/ford_2nd.jpg" style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1188" data-original-width="2048" height="372" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LbOc8-kALGU/YavZ39cbapI/AAAAAAAAws0/3aXlFqIyPvQ_i44heu6y3On9PRcPMjSagCNcBGAsYHQ/w640-h372/ford_2nd.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Sir John had led the detachment from the Black Tower to the Eastern Frontier as soon as word came from spies about the raid, but it was by chance that they arrived at the right place at the right time. The addition of a company of heavily armoured knights supported by both mounted and foot crossbowmen was a major boost to the garrison and local levies but they were faced by twice their numbers of Federation Horse Guards and horse archers wading across the river.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYhyphenhyphen2BrWnJJw5sWXkSE-r5KvYNcV2dc2D2_IxZVbW3K78eoXQ6L8F4BoAgXpa-u-r5DOCfU50LQbk3EOt_tWXwT74hTZ1lC4guALI8sF0nSICVAuqut3JirWcuDq5NjmmCayS8HdZbtqM/s2572/ford_1st.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="2572" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYhyphenhyphen2BrWnJJw5sWXkSE-r5KvYNcV2dc2D2_IxZVbW3K78eoXQ6L8F4BoAgXpa-u-r5DOCfU50LQbk3EOt_tWXwT74hTZ1lC4guALI8sF0nSICVAuqut3JirWcuDq5NjmmCayS8HdZbtqM/w640-h298/ford_1st.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>At the main ford where the road crossed the river, 4 companies of archers, supported by the Horse Lord with two companies of lancers, began a long range duel with the two companies of local levies that defended the palisade. Two more companies of horse archers spread out to the south to look for a ford which would let them outflank the fort.</div><div><br /></div><div><div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-G8uoGLQEEy4/YavWY9VfHxI/AAAAAAAAwsM/b2jFy-EMNn4F2UjQ4hajuJp9WzlAst6SQCNcBGAsYHQ/s2643/ford_2nd_blackguard.jpg"><span style="color: black;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1189" data-original-width="2643" height="288" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-G8uoGLQEEy4/YavWY9VfHxI/AAAAAAAAwsM/b2jFy-EMNn4F2UjQ4hajuJp9WzlAst6SQCNcBGAsYHQ/w640-h288/ford_2nd_blackguard.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div><div><br /></div>By the northern ford, the Black Company initially drove back the Federate light cavalry with heavy casualties, but they couldn't stem the flow of enemy cavalry entirely. Once the Horse Guards crossed over, their fierce charge drove the Black Company cavalry with heavy losses with the young Captain Theodora proving her ability to lead and to fight.</div><div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SxFO-LfV6Zg/YavY0eAMwBI/AAAAAAAAwsk/T6sHT5GDaTYyGokIv0dPV7Z_oGcawH0nACNcBGAsYHQ/s1956/ford_surrounded.jpg"><span style="color: black;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1012" data-original-width="1956" height="332" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SxFO-LfV6Zg/YavY0eAMwBI/AAAAAAAAwsk/T6sHT5GDaTYyGokIv0dPV7Z_oGcawH0nACNcBGAsYHQ/w640-h332/ford_surrounded.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div><div><br /></div>While the Black Company was holding back the upstream raiders, Lord Neville had arrived with his levies and driven off the Federate light cavalry who had crossed downriver. The garrison behind their palisade was slowly taking losses but appeared to be winning the exchange of arrows. </div><div><br /></div><div>The sun was starting to slip for the horizon and it seemed like it might be possible to hold back the invaders till more of the local forces arrived.</div><div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXOK16lr0EPfvX-IgppmteZsjl36kb5cc8sQ0Xp2jmHA9bjuOokaFrmYRfxRaJObkCLAhyzPaE5hDkN2ttEpGrY285-ukgqEE0py8ywT1sd08GyG13vZl6sH_1_b9q_KWS6CEWY1HKbCQ/s2643/ford_end.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="1189" data-original-width="2643" height="288" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXOK16lr0EPfvX-IgppmteZsjl36kb5cc8sQ0Xp2jmHA9bjuOokaFrmYRfxRaJObkCLAhyzPaE5hDkN2ttEpGrY285-ukgqEE0py8ywT1sd08GyG13vZl6sH_1_b9q_KWS6CEWY1HKbCQ/w640-h288/ford_end.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><p>The Horse Lord was not one to be easily dismayed though and he commanded a picked force. The assault was renewed with effect, sweeping away most of the remaining Midlish cavalry. There was nothing left for the defenders but to retreat behind their palisade and watch the raiders march past. In the woods to the north, the veteran Black Company crossbowmen did their best to form a rallying point for the surviving cavalrymen whose units had been shattered. When night fell, they retreated back through the woods.</p><p>The prolonged defence had been overcome with heavy losses, but it had slowed the raiders long enough to give the countryside time to prepare. The raiders would have to fight for their plunder!</p></div></div>Ross Mac rmacfa@gmail.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04053555991679802013noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-150915073362325928.post-11318691422056287792021-11-29T12:20:00.000-08:002021-11-29T12:20:40.695-08:00The East Watch Beacon Is Lit! <p>Rumours are constant on the frontier. Few are true but none can be ignored so the garrison at Eastford has been on alert for a week. A call for reinforcements has gone out, and mounted patrols of the river have been doubled. Then one day.....</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uVU3krkv-N8/YaUzCdMrIOI/AAAAAAAAwrA/zu8DtAbcGX8QmOJko_PmVran83uXbjRMwCLcBGAsYHQ/s2643/alarm%2521.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1189" data-original-width="2643" height="288" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uVU3krkv-N8/YaUzCdMrIOI/AAAAAAAAwrA/zu8DtAbcGX8QmOJko_PmVran83uXbjRMwCLcBGAsYHQ/w640-h288/alarm%2521.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>Alarm! Enemy in sight!</i></b></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p>The local frontier garrisons are used to small raiding parties but this looks like an army marching towards them. The men peer over the palisade and some could be seen clenching their fists, shaking them and then opening them like men throwing bones in a tavern while muttering: "<b>Lady Luck be with us</b>".</p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p>Ross Mac rmacfa@gmail.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04053555991679802013noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-150915073362325928.post-69694312133677620642021-11-25T11:16:00.001-08:002021-11-25T11:16:30.071-08:00The Host Gathers For The Raid<p> The talking is over. A plan has been agreed upon and the the raiders have mustered</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcA_ZAeiavmYoYfCjhMOXtaPlCrAOm7p8R4I6ypp0qFfc4jyfmcnUHwrPvmeXKtifWS8LT29Ei-BmcUfMDHrOBV8pB4Vs3F4HBtFnKGzRTffzBIRqXB-4kfusk5n5gpFxc2EEM3hKcgFBt/s2165/raid_muster.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="2165" height="296" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcA_ZAeiavmYoYfCjhMOXtaPlCrAOm7p8R4I6ypp0qFfc4jyfmcnUHwrPvmeXKtifWS8LT29Ei-BmcUfMDHrOBV8pB4Vs3F4HBtFnKGzRTffzBIRqXB-4kfusk5n5gpFxc2EEM3hKcgFBt/w640-h296/raid_muster.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><p>The Valdurian component, led by the now recovered <a href="http://gatheringofhosts.blogspot.com/2020/01/fighting-for-hearth-and-home.html" target="_blank">Prince Wyngnuht</a>, is on the right as the eldest of the Federation. They are represented by one company of lancers and two of light cavalry. Two companies of the Federation Horse Guards are in the middle supported by a company of Dalish archers and two companies of Others from the mercenaries forces who guard the Great Pass which leads from Dale, past the <a href="http://gatheringofhosts.blogspot.com/2019/01/in-shadow-of-black-tower.html" target="_blank">Black Tower</a> and into the heart of the Midlands. The Herdsman, with the largest force, form the left with 4 companies of archers, 4 of light cavalry and 2 of Lancers, 1 of which contains the Horse Master who has been given command of the expedition since he has the largest force.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhm7v7ARBze3E6obKBlT0eAgDguFBbW4h7Rd_xF__hDYR7Ed8xJNPLq0eQ2GfyGUOvQUPMLGfjCMfZ3Z-0u_4FVofV-wN07Z0iKNZ1iwnBtwm3EU6PXmMegRhMw_1FDHlmSeHx8X6DXdTE/s1412/4Winds_raid_map.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1412" height="362" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhm7v7ARBze3E6obKBlT0eAgDguFBbW4h7Rd_xF__hDYR7Ed8xJNPLq0eQ2GfyGUOvQUPMLGfjCMfZ3Z-0u_4FVofV-wN07Z0iKNZ1iwnBtwm3EU6PXmMegRhMw_1FDHlmSeHx8X6DXdTE/w640-h362/4Winds_raid_map.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><p>With the Midlish army licking its wounds behind the Black Tower, and the Free Folk still harassing the Midlish Northwestern border, it was thought best to flank the Midlish defences by moving swiftly through the East Pass into the debated lands and crossing the Great River that runs down to the Middle Sea before the East Marchers of the Midlands can muster and block the crossings.</p><p>The horns were sounded, and the march began.</p>Ross Mac rmacfa@gmail.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04053555991679802013noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-150915073362325928.post-2324207548863333972021-11-20T16:59:00.002-08:002021-11-20T16:59:36.467-08:00The Great Raid: Prologue<p>At last the planning and preparations are done, the polyglot forces have gathered, and the Great Raid into the Midlands has begun.</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IvLapaRxgIY/YZmTVx3bM1I/AAAAAAAAwoU/DKxmugmaAMgts33-swxjRS-7Gr-yfJ2twCLcBGAsYHQ/s1505/20211120_201147.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1436" data-original-width="1505" height="610" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IvLapaRxgIY/YZmTVx3bM1I/AAAAAAAAwoU/DKxmugmaAMgts33-swxjRS-7Gr-yfJ2twCLcBGAsYHQ/w640-h610/20211120_201147.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><b>Captain Theodora, at the head of the Third Squadron of Riders, pauses at the crest of the pass to survey the vista of farms and villages that stretch across the Midland plain below.</b></i></td></tr></tbody></table><p>Captain Theodora, recently appointed to command the Third Squadron of Horse Guards, has been given the honour of commanding the allied advance guard. She may find glory at the head of this polyglot force but she is as likely to leave her bones for the ravens in these rich lands. </p><p>As long as the Bards sing songs of her deeds it will be worth it.</p>Ross Mac rmacfa@gmail.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04053555991679802013noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-150915073362325928.post-53747498639787422852021-08-13T05:22:00.004-07:002021-08-13T05:25:00.237-07:00A Tale From The Days Of Long Ago<p> The days when the warriors of Valdur were smaller and more flexible.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9fG4DTY3bkhAnIlkVlhJvsp84JDvVL_AWvEIt1fEGulFugoJidCdx7WwPUXjdIeS5BLrkeNZCip04jT5SHQkVxpdWQOYmdenzVfG5zU2Y4MQ0obF92COFZYXnoWUuHxLab8VhUU79IBp0/s2048/20210811_172747%257E2.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1033" data-original-width="2048" height="322" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9fG4DTY3bkhAnIlkVlhJvsp84JDvVL_AWvEIt1fEGulFugoJidCdx7WwPUXjdIeS5BLrkeNZCip04jT5SHQkVxpdWQOYmdenzVfG5zU2Y4MQ0obF92COFZYXnoWUuHxLab8VhUU79IBp0/w640-h322/20210811_172747%257E2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><p>Dismayed by the encroachments of the Sea Raiders, King Aerophix led his host against the enemy.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVO9fZDS5Ie8l6o45Z-9WrMeVtm3b_aiJBDUsyKVIH6PN97JFZU_JFssECt6II38pap9o4BkuEmNGuNvAOREydq-Hiuy5m3I-3j66QQcPqbQjj9FL-dzTVhJP8hHrZaXl_aUTZm0N-wgBH/s2643/20210811_172723.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1189" data-original-width="2643" height="288" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVO9fZDS5Ie8l6o45Z-9WrMeVtm3b_aiJBDUsyKVIH6PN97JFZU_JFssECt6II38pap9o4BkuEmNGuNvAOREydq-Hiuy5m3I-3j66QQcPqbQjj9FL-dzTVhJP8hHrZaXl_aUTZm0N-wgBH/w640-h288/20210811_172723.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><p>Despite the enemy's armour and his shield wall, the Valdurian cavalry swept around the enemy right flank while the Valdurian light troops harassed and slowed his centre. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEii9AmtaVQq703azbU1Fd4f6Kn0XJyiokRtYnO02xIorhZJVfRjvSjADBrykEOIu2CNcKUD81JLdqvBH2F4EkJr3T2YONTi8AyOlDmVPOzCi0HL5nv7YkQhZK0gmiGoSzbEhuWRRU3Ny8iH/s2048/20210811_172447%257E2.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1209" data-original-width="2048" height="378" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEii9AmtaVQq703azbU1Fd4f6Kn0XJyiokRtYnO02xIorhZJVfRjvSjADBrykEOIu2CNcKUD81JLdqvBH2F4EkJr3T2YONTi8AyOlDmVPOzCi0HL5nv7YkQhZK0gmiGoSzbEhuWRRU3Ny8iH/w640-h378/20210811_172447%257E2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><p>The battle was short and bloody. King Aerophix was lightly wounded but refused to let his chariot retreat lest his men lose heart. Inspired by their king, the Valdurians enveloped the Sea Raider line and cut them to pieces. King Orion himself was severely wounded but his men did not abandon him. Drawing close around his wounded body, they carried him back to their ships to raid again when his wounds were healed.</p>Ross Mac rmacfa@gmail.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04053555991679802013noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-150915073362325928.post-46946572238712522302021-01-26T11:01:00.000-08:002021-01-26T11:01:56.900-08:00The Enemy of My Enemy<p> The peoples who make up the Northern Federation have little love for the Free Folk of the West but they are not the threat that that the Midlands present, nor the rich source of plunder.</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-U3C9tKDtxDc/YBBlar_YOKI/AAAAAAAAsdg/smA-3dXyE5cnkJb75m2r_CNT4gvQTAjNQCLcBGAsYHQ/s3623/20210126_144651.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1764" data-original-width="3623" height="312" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-U3C9tKDtxDc/YBBlar_YOKI/AAAAAAAAsdg/smA-3dXyE5cnkJb75m2r_CNT4gvQTAjNQCLcBGAsYHQ/w640-h312/20210126_144651.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td></tr></tbody></table><p>So it is was that when news reached the Eastern plains that the Westfolk had tweaked the noses of the Western Marcher Lords, and taken back their sacred Dalai, the Herdsmen sent out the Red Arrow indicating that men were wanted for a raid. </p><p>They also sent messages to the Hills and Woods where the <b>Others</b> hold sway to invite them to join in on an expedition beyond the Mountains.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kZC6e-DOnQA/YBBmZYzjF3I/AAAAAAAAsdo/a6l1bQNbau0NOuBpge2N0dDBFaI44nQoACLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/20210126_145038.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1294" data-original-width="2048" height="404" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kZC6e-DOnQA/YBBmZYzjF3I/AAAAAAAAsdo/a6l1bQNbau0NOuBpge2N0dDBFaI44nQoACLcBGAsYHQ/w640-h404/20210126_145038.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><p><br /></p><p>Is it just me or do those Spearman look a little nervous?</p>Ross Mac rmacfa@gmail.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04053555991679802013noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-150915073362325928.post-45329312882423818392020-11-02T19:17:00.009-08:002020-11-02T19:38:40.580-08:00The Bloody Ford<p> And so it was that on Samhain, under a Full Moon, the clans from the hills were gathered in secret in the Morning Forest where the road crossed the river that divided the Free Folk from the lands of the Midlish King. A raven had come with word from the Queen, na dallag naomh was on his way home! Meet at the North Ford and be ready for battle.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgprhQYbjac5UqAZtCIQ-dppDPd1gUYzxQm9H-Zts82GQKEKeRWX4li5Q4TS_pd1L4ln3qILLJ21rPCYYGTgiHwgYlCPhqn3Wx91Rl6eeWIpHcz3pNVlxz4eqrQV2-5HdGlySJB9buPMjs/s4036/20201030_181628.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2320" data-original-width="4036" height="368" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgprhQYbjac5UqAZtCIQ-dppDPd1gUYzxQm9H-Zts82GQKEKeRWX4li5Q4TS_pd1L4ln3qILLJ21rPCYYGTgiHwgYlCPhqn3Wx91Rl6eeWIpHcz3pNVlxz4eqrQV2-5HdGlySJB9buPMjs/w640-h368/20201030_181628.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><p>The day dawned grey and cold but the host gathered and formed for the fight. News that trouble was on hand must have reached the Tower for the garrison was alert and the ford was strongly held. The Queen ordered her forces to step into the open and draw the enemy's attention. At last, a Raven fluttered down by the Queen, cocked his head and croaked "Here! Here!" before flying off again. She ordered the clans to sound their trumpets, shout loudly their Battle Cries, and to advance and attack the ford.</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Pi9QDCRHs2g/X6AG9G3r7uI/AAAAAAAAqQo/W10ntAAyeswurNbpM5zX0ydEtDzVy59IgCPcBGAsYHg/s2188/20201031_102950.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1315" data-original-width="2188" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Pi9QDCRHs2g/X6AG9G3r7uI/AAAAAAAAqQo/W10ntAAyeswurNbpM5zX0ydEtDzVy59IgCPcBGAsYHg/w400-h240/20201031_102950.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><b>The clans attack through the morning mist.</b></i><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><p>The Captain of the Tower was no novice though, and he was forewarned. Having fortified and garrisoned the ford, he had also posted archers to watch the woods and formed his lancers to react. He also counted on reinforcements, the King's Borderers returning from their patrol, Sir Daniel and even the Earl himself. </p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Hd3mNxqsC8o/X6AO01zhBgI/AAAAAAAAqRc/WuN90Pqtnss7W4l-F2jItCHhmUc8nq_3ACPcBGAsYHg/s4640/20201031_103047.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2320" data-original-width="4640" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Hd3mNxqsC8o/X6AO01zhBgI/AAAAAAAAqRc/WuN90Pqtnss7W4l-F2jItCHhmUc8nq_3ACPcBGAsYHg/w640-h320/20201031_103047.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>Raven's eye view of the battlefield.</i></b><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br />At the ford, the battle was fierce and bloody, bloody for the Hill clans at least. The well armoured Midlish had planted Cheveau de Frises across the road and with their long pikes, they could spear the hillmen as they struggled to chop their way through it. The occasional arrow or javelin found a mark but there were pikemen enough to take their place. <div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQ4eoRlKqeWE3zdHm4BbQq81-aPav5DoAlihSMdWDUMlrvziBdmyuDrg_AdmWxcCUeT_ymlzUzwJ7Wd2a23LwNmoTIuhBK2dk1X12JmyLiFMhl4J6Y6eVNS7jr0W56bJM1ZITeumh-Rz4/s3864/20201101_093534.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2320" data-original-width="3864" height="384" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQ4eoRlKqeWE3zdHm4BbQq81-aPav5DoAlihSMdWDUMlrvziBdmyuDrg_AdmWxcCUeT_ymlzUzwJ7Wd2a23LwNmoTIuhBK2dk1X12JmyLiFMhl4J6Y6eVNS7jr0W56bJM1ZITeumh-Rz4/w640-h384/20201101_093534.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>Far off, the Queen could see that while the hillmen died at the ford and lightly armed raiders were sacrificing them selves against the Iron Riders on the river bank, the Huntress had led her small party with the precious chest to the river.</div><div><br />The stories of the old ones told of a hidden way to cross if one could read the signs and who could read them if not the Huntress? But, she needed time and if blood must pay for it, that is how it must be! </div><div><br /></div><div>The Queen called the Hillfolk back and ordered Na gruagach mohr to open the road, and pin or crush the enemy!</div><div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KlxMtrsMR_4/X6AS01d6KAI/AAAAAAAAqRo/mF1A_Oxut8gDufT5NSEzpvVXVkyEyrRIACPcBGAsYHg/s4640/20201101_094023.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2320" data-original-width="4640" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KlxMtrsMR_4/X6AS01d6KAI/AAAAAAAAqRo/mF1A_Oxut8gDufT5NSEzpvVXVkyEyrRIACPcBGAsYHg/w640-h320/20201101_094023.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>At the sight of the great beast lumbering towards them, the Midlish soldiers braced themselves and more than a few muttered prayers. A desperate struggle began at the ford as the great beast tore at the barricade while his human companions tried to shield him from the pikes of the enemy. </div><div><p>Suddenly, trumpets and joyful cries ran out from the tower: "The Earl! The Earl!". The Earl of Cowcross had come!</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifsfxmvw4fJromk3I56OkAk9eEl4-UaI4GTxFZX40zMI7m_ss1_JsPGI-_8UvyNUkcZzyTOwdXQR6ybTXSke5dJbUF9kfoNNjLXkiEUMjPEjsBbW5WbN74yxoe64CWUz-yiW2jOCH-qkw/s3584/20201101_094519.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3584" data-original-width="2320" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifsfxmvw4fJromk3I56OkAk9eEl4-UaI4GTxFZX40zMI7m_ss1_JsPGI-_8UvyNUkcZzyTOwdXQR6ybTXSke5dJbUF9kfoNNjLXkiEUMjPEjsBbW5WbN74yxoe64CWUz-yiW2jOCH-qkw/w414-h640/20201101_094519.jpg" width="414" /></a></div><p>Though his men were encouraged, the Earl had come too late to save them. With the abatis crushed, the great beast stumbled forward, tearing great gaps in the enemy phalanx though they stood their ground manfully. At last, it became too much and the survivors fled. </p><p>The catapult on the tower now had a clear shot to the wounded beast. A great bolt plunged deep into the beast, and then another. Slowly, it sank to its knees, lay down on its side, and heaved a huge sigh as its eyes slowly closed.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dmaJP_q-hvw/X6AXCCNI6oI/AAAAAAAAqSY/K5uLpZyUEaUZ8YVR1vgs_D3q5Gi2J53hACPcBGAsYHg/s4640/20201101_095712.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2320" data-original-width="4640" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dmaJP_q-hvw/X6AXCCNI6oI/AAAAAAAAqSY/K5uLpZyUEaUZ8YVR1vgs_D3q5Gi2J53hACPcBGAsYHg/w640-h320/20201101_095712.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>Beyond the ford, the arrival of Sir Daniel and his men had turned the tide. The lightly equipped Woodsfolk had died or fled and the armoured knights and their accompanying archers had pursued to the river bank.<br /><p>Only the Queen's Hound, clothed in his magic mist, now stood between the enemy and the chest. Another epic struggle began.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2Kkb6GCiotI/X6AXcj4ScOI/AAAAAAAAqSk/8e5bmuV2m8Y2sw5O7ZK5SvT_LJyVGcZOACPcBGAsYHg/s3139/20201101_095731.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2320" data-original-width="3139" height="472" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2Kkb6GCiotI/X6AXcj4ScOI/AAAAAAAAqSk/8e5bmuV2m8Y2sw5O7ZK5SvT_LJyVGcZOACPcBGAsYHg/w640-h472/20201101_095731.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><p>Against all of the odds, the Hound held off and shattered squadron after squadron until at last, with his enemy dead or scattered, he sank to his knees and then the ground. His guardian witch gathered him up in her mist, and he disappeared from view. Arrows began to rain down on the warriors carry the chest as they sought the hidden passage. Was this the end?</p><p> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTDfmkdzyPuKXSpzvnMhVwITOyfuhbjvKC9XOrN0eoOC3K2p-9UR6Ed1jzdwzYxoeGNG_kGAMRptr69sCRtDohkc55WAU9hUe4x8h5x201hwP4Yf42cIpmywCz3KTKmX5uj9k-6xKgIM8/s3858/20201101_101452.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2320" data-original-width="3858" height="384" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTDfmkdzyPuKXSpzvnMhVwITOyfuhbjvKC9XOrN0eoOC3K2p-9UR6Ed1jzdwzYxoeGNG_kGAMRptr69sCRtDohkc55WAU9hUe4x8h5x201hwP4Yf42cIpmywCz3KTKmX5uj9k-6xKgIM8/w640-h384/20201101_101452.jpg" width="640" /></a></p><p>Not yet! Woodsmen from the relief force swan across the deep part of the ford and their fierce attack drove the Midlish archers back and at last the Huntress found the secret junction in the ford. As the Earl weighed the risk of pursuit, there was a stir as clumps of spears began to appear over the crest line. The Farmers had honoured their oaths and had marched to war! </p><p>Their arrival, mixed with the heavy Midlish casualties, was enough to convince the Earl to declare that that chest was not worth the price in blood. The battle was over. </p><div><br /></div><p><br /></p><p><br /><br /></p></div></div></div>Ross Mac rmacfa@gmail.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04053555991679802013noreply@blogger.com19tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-150915073362325928.post-63164457143356587142020-11-01T09:38:00.004-08:002020-11-01T09:38:47.135-08:00And there a Greate Battle was Foughten<p> and soon....... </p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qQqiFgaIyR8/X57yDzJqZjI/AAAAAAAAqPg/iicvhBbtd2Ihr9_CvzhSYIo3ozJXiMqdACPcBGAsYHg/s3951/20201031_102941.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2320" data-original-width="3951" height="376" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qQqiFgaIyR8/X57yDzJqZjI/AAAAAAAAqPg/iicvhBbtd2Ihr9_CvzhSYIo3ozJXiMqdACPcBGAsYHg/w640-h376/20201031_102941.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><p>......the bards will sing of the Battle of the Bloody Ford!</p>Ross Mac rmacfa@gmail.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04053555991679802013noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-150915073362325928.post-60371332314784587112020-10-30T16:35:00.002-07:002020-10-30T16:35:39.307-07:00AWAKE! AWAKE! FOES FIRE DANGER! AWAKE!<p>Forewarned by alarm beacons, the border post at the North Ford was on alert with barricades in place across the ford and guards and patrols doubled. As the sun rose, barbarians could be seen approaching from the West and the trumpet rang out to summon the garrison to their posts.</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgibHk30T4UO6cPj8EHsHp3immZkSIGST6RnWTCDKLk8vY_qUlLx_CiYUSuM95WjmJ5D0WOTsQuZrQjhQfSsMUUj9dyCIN_SQiZqxbmiOQ_nxv2fe8_zUkWsZDCHL15xuJkeGJxHMiQdfwz/s2048/20201030_181650%257E2.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1477" data-original-width="2048" height="462" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgibHk30T4UO6cPj8EHsHp3immZkSIGST6RnWTCDKLk8vY_qUlLx_CiYUSuM95WjmJ5D0WOTsQuZrQjhQfSsMUUj9dyCIN_SQiZqxbmiOQ_nxv2fe8_zUkWsZDCHL15xuJkeGJxHMiQdfwz/w640-h462/20201030_181650%257E2.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><p>All eyes were rivetted to the ford and the foe beyond. Not a man spared a thought for the edge of the Wild Wood behind them.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTtVZdrRag79IG9We6lsFrhyphenhyphenzL4KFFNYkthlTEbxoGswCbx-jiFtkgGiId1EsvTi9a5z1ZV3nNup8w9kXes97ODwfRhpQzFpMj_TBEPBvU6h0mDMN3GIqikjHPJGXk_XlMPkvhZDjNkRP1/s2048/20201030_181628%257E2.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1321" data-original-width="2048" height="412" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTtVZdrRag79IG9We6lsFrhyphenhyphenzL4KFFNYkthlTEbxoGswCbx-jiFtkgGiId1EsvTi9a5z1ZV3nNup8w9kXes97ODwfRhpQzFpMj_TBEPBvU6h0mDMN3GIqikjHPJGXk_XlMPkvhZDjNkRP1/w640-h412/20201030_181628%257E2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><p>As stealthy as cats, the Huntress and Cuan na Banrigh had scaled the tower, hidden in a magic mist, retrieved the sacred chest, and sped through the hills and forests towards the ford. Birds carried the word to the waiting Men of the Hills.</p><p>"<i>We are coming!"</i></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p>Ross Mac rmacfa@gmail.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04053555991679802013noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-150915073362325928.post-21329680658935128892020-10-29T07:58:00.000-07:002020-10-29T07:58:18.021-07:00The Search for Na dallag naomh.<p> </p><p>Nearly three years had gone by since the theft of the sacred Dallag. (See "<a href="The affair of Na dallag naomh" target="_blank">The affair of Na dallag naomh</a>") and every day the bonds of the alliance between Woodsfolk, Hillfolk and Farmers weakened a little more. For three years the search for the Dallag had gone on day and night. The Huntress had searched the Woods and Mountains for tales and signs while the Watcher had sent forth word to the wild birds and beasts of the forests, hills and mountains to search for the sacred totem. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikCqgj3gzqFw5gHw5NVbzcykhhPkqsqKrdcPMLlRho6vAM-pNBvJYgRHuthdwnWS_HK-gv1WKLYAVSwEoHc4vdAltCYTG7vTWMS8qbct78X4ErqRWga5sznvWweuYSsLVRsbJ8WjK0kPU/s3585/20201029_100715.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3585" data-original-width="2320" height="744" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikCqgj3gzqFw5gHw5NVbzcykhhPkqsqKrdcPMLlRho6vAM-pNBvJYgRHuthdwnWS_HK-gv1WKLYAVSwEoHc4vdAltCYTG7vTWMS8qbct78X4ErqRWga5sznvWweuYSsLVRsbJ8WjK0kPU/w481-h744/20201029_100715.jpg" width="481" /></a></div><br /><p>At, last! Word had come. The Iron Lord had entrusted it to Sir Daniel with orders to find a way to open the chest and discover its secrets or if not, then to destroy it. Since it was of the Old Gods, Sir Danial took the Chest to the Witch Cave and with praise and guile, bribes and sweet words he entreated them to show him their power by unlocking the chest. They chanted and danced and demanded a price which we will not speak here and at last they set their foul cauldron to boil, hiss and steam while they circled it, chanting in a forgotten language until at last with a cry and a final puff of foul smelling smoke.....they announced that the chest could not be opened by an unbeliever and faded back into the depths of their cave. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-A-ccCCTgPgI/X5rUav76TaI/AAAAAAAAqGg/uiSjirHpME0svpLWp4-RKcV6YjX1d1XTgCPcBGAsYHg/s2406/20201029_111417.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1418" data-original-width="2406" height="378" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-A-ccCCTgPgI/X5rUav76TaI/AAAAAAAAqGg/uiSjirHpME0svpLWp4-RKcV6YjX1d1XTgCPcBGAsYHg/w640-h378/20201029_111417.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><p>Many the Wise Man and Sorcerer answered Sir Daniel's challenge and promises of reward until the day a Sky Wizard, a Shaman of the Herdsmen from the across the Mountains appeared and promised that this was a task for the light not the dark. If only the chest was taken up to the top of the tower where the Sky could peer down upon it, the Wizard would then read the mystery through its eyes and enlighten Sir Daniel. So it was that the gold and the chest were carried up the long stairs while the Wizard chanted and wove his arms while Sir Daniel and his guards looked on. Suddenly there was a bright flash, a tremendous BANG! and a dense fog of smoke. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iNUw39P07JY/X5rW-u3fziI/AAAAAAAAqGw/DnjSRvjBVgwpwlohZSqZ3jjAx5UzxcyGACPcBGAsYHg/s4640/20201029_111621.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2320" data-original-width="4640" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iNUw39P07JY/X5rW-u3fziI/AAAAAAAAqGw/DnjSRvjBVgwpwlohZSqZ3jjAx5UzxcyGACPcBGAsYHg/w640-h320/20201029_111621.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><p>When the smoke cleared and Sir Daniel and the Guards awoke, the Wizard and the gold were gone but the chest remained, as silent as ever. But it had spoken widely enough. A eagle spied the smoke and circled over, wheeling quickly to report to the Watcher. </p><p> The Queen summoned the Huntress and sent her with a picked force of stealthy, painted folk from the forest to steal back the sacred chest and bring it by night through the forests to the Great River where a force of Hillfolk would meet them and fight off any pursuit. From the Farmers, there had come no answer to the summons.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Xr5cVOMMGNA/X5rX4oH3EGI/AAAAAAAAqG4/SaHnhbMJ3XwNMvLS0qHsWQfgjh1piIUmgCPcBGAsYHg/s2734/20201029_105957.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1652" data-original-width="2734" height="386" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Xr5cVOMMGNA/X5rX4oH3EGI/AAAAAAAAqG4/SaHnhbMJ3XwNMvLS0qHsWQfgjh1piIUmgCPcBGAsYHg/w640-h386/20201029_105957.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><p>The strongest oaths were taken: "Bring Na Dallag naomh home, or die trying!".</p>Ross Mac rmacfa@gmail.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04053555991679802013noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-150915073362325928.post-66687249606726331502020-01-30T07:16:00.004-08:002020-01-30T07:16:48.781-08:00Fighting for Hearth and HomeWhen word came from the Watchers that the host of Iron Men in the pass had taken the North East road, the Elder of Smawlton was quick to send word to Duke Bedwyr and to set the Villagers to barricading the village streets.<br />
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From behind their barricades the village folk watched the long enemy column crawl across the plain with a screen of horsemen scouting ahead. From the woods they could see a shower of arrows rain on the enemy's scouts who replied from horseback with their crossbows. Moments later there was a sudden clamour of screeching and howling as a group of Watchers rushed from the woods only to be cut down by the horsemen and scattered. A brave folk but rash when their blood was up. Their attack was not in vain though, the Midlish column halted and began to deploy for battle. They had barely started forward again when thundering hooves announced the advance guard of the Duke's men rushing to meet the foe.<br />
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The Earl of Oxford urged his men forward, wanting to settle the local force before the inevitable arrival of the Duke. The veteran mercenaries in the wood were doing their job though and company after company of archers were sent back to face them while the light horse were ordered forward to screen the knights from the arrows of the Federate light horse. Eventually the deployment was complete and the Earl signalled for a general advance but it had barely started when trumpets and loud cheers announced the arrival of Duke Bedwyr.<br />
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As the Federation lancers rode on and deployed, a young warrior, glittering in gold from his old fashioned winged helmet to his stirrups, rode forward from the ranks.<br />
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It was the young chieftain, Prince Wyngnuht, 8th of his name, a descendent of one of the most gallant and least fortunate of the generals of old Valdur and said to be the spitting image of his ancestor and to have inherited his courage and luck. He raised his battleaxe, bellowed a challenge to the Earl, and spurred his horse forward followed by the whole of the Federation lancers.<br />
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Alas, the ordered ranks of the heavily armoured Midlish knights were not to be shattered by such wild charges and fully half of the lancers were scattered, leaving the bloodied body of the young Prince on the ground.<br />
<br />
Muttering quiet curses to himself, the old Duke ordered his men and set them to foiling the enemy's plans. He sent the Herdsmen to circle the village and harass the enemy rear while the rest of Lancers and Light Horse kept the enemy cavalry busy.<br />
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The Losses of the Federation cavalry continued to mount as charge followed charge interspersed with exchanges of arrows but the enemy cavalry made little progress. It appeared that the Earl preferred to keep his cavalry intact and leave the village to his infantry rather than risking the loss of yet more cavalry so early in his raid.<br />
<br />
Those infantry were making little headway though. A prolonged struggle at the barricades was bloody for both sides but the packed ranks of spearmen were not best suited for attacking over such broken ground under a shower of spears, throwing axes, rocks and whatever else came to hand.<br />
<br />
To the south, the mercenary Goblins had finally dispersed the last of the Midlish rearguard and had advanced from the woods, adding their arrows to those of the Herdsmen who galloped past the enemy's flanks to trade shots with the Midlish bowmen. <br />
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Both armies were near exhaustion as the sun sank towards the horizon and the town was not yet taken. The Earl knew that more Federate forces would be marching through the night to meet them and even if his army captured the town as dark fell, he had lost too many men and too much time for the raid to go farther. It was time to pull back into the pass and either entrench and call up reinforcements, or head for home. <br />
<br />
As the Midlish pulled back, the villagers spread out, bringing succour to the wounded. To the Duke's great relief, the rash young Prince, who had been his guest when word of the raid had come, was only wounded. He would live to ride again, hopefully at the head of his own people.<br />
<br />Ross Mac rmacfa@gmail.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04053555991679802013noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-150915073362325928.post-79741123400065107202020-01-28T17:20:00.000-08:002020-01-28T17:23:05.356-08:00RetributionIt has been a year since the <a href="https://gatheringofhosts.blogspot.com/2019/01/in-shadow-of-black-tower.html">Battle under the Tower (<i><span style="font-size: xx-small;">click</span></i>)</a> but the villages North of the Great Pass still keep a wary eye out for the enemy.<br />
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Then one day in late January................<br />
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To Arms! The Enemy is at hand!<br />
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<br />Ross Mac rmacfa@gmail.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04053555991679802013noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-150915073362325928.post-45440046727287888902020-01-27T17:53:00.002-08:002020-01-27T17:53:58.211-08:00The Watchers in the PassThe Free Folks that form the Northern Federation are not the only inhabitants North of the Mountains. Among the forests and craggy cliffs and caverns of the Mountains them selves dwell various non-human races which the humans are prone to call Goblins regardless of what they call themselves.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_--Iq38W3Cs/Xi-TYtQ52qI/AAAAAAAAjis/ncM6GB_DQp4sTO_acUdx9tTDubN-qjX8QCKgBGAsYHg/s1600/20200127_210351.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_--Iq38W3Cs/Xi-TYtQ52qI/AAAAAAAAjis/ncM6GB_DQp4sTO_acUdx9tTDubN-qjX8QCKgBGAsYHg/s640/20200127_210351.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><b>Prince August Goblins and Wargs, fresh from the mould. I'm pretty sure I can get some sharper castings with a bit of work but I was in the mood to add a few fantasy figures.</b></i></td></tr>
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The mercenary companies that garrison many of the border posts and go on raids are raised from the larger races that dwell in the Eastern Mountains. However, there is a smaller race of hunters and trappers that lives in and near the Great Pass and it is these who have an agreement with the Federation to watch the pass and send word of threats in exchange for the right to levy tolls on those who use the pass. In time of war they have been known to send parties including their fierce Wolfdogs to scout for and fight alongside Federation troops and to bring home what plunder they may get. Ross Mac rmacfa@gmail.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04053555991679802013noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-150915073362325928.post-57637509585355695562019-09-24T15:11:00.002-07:002019-09-24T15:11:31.542-07:00The Battle of Argentium BridgeTo the scholars and Wisemen of the Midlands, it is a Mystery that there are still Free Lands in the West who live without a King and nobles. As the long columns of Knights, spearmen and archers marched west under the banner of the Earl of Cowcross, their armour glinting in the sun, there was no doubt in their minds that this time, the Free Lands would finally be brought to order so that noble and merchant alike could show the wealth that it could assuredly produce.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i><span style="font-size: small;">The advance guard scouts ahead, crossbows at the ready.</span></i></b> </td></tr>
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There may have been young nobles in the column who smirked at the sight of the small clump of spearmen arrayed at the far side of the bridge to Argentium. The bridge had been built by some foreign emperor long ago and was a solid stone structure but it was in the middle of nowhere as far as the Midlanders could see. The cry went up to move the advance guard archers aside so that the Knights could sweep these churls aside. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i><span style="font-size: small;">Archers lined the bank while the advance guard of Tunstall Tower Archers pushed over the bridge and tripped an enemy ambush.</span></i></b></td></tr>
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This was not the Earl's first campaign in the West though and he called forward The Council's Soothsayer and asked him to roll the Bones and see what the Powers Above said. With much chanting and a few puffs of fragrant smoke the Soothsayer studied the fall of the Bones and told the Earl to send his infantry against this lowly foe. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKc8-qqsX-RBwBBJ0IV71Ugtf7UbweDtIvAHXccPyh2OvDEOMxHw8DLH1PsPndWkuFmSVKycxQWagxJv_yifyV972dDRGSMOD2ioDGA1iTzwBQOvMmh9FS4QV2jtLvSSo4NmJ4mvfGCcY/s1600/20190923_131008.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKc8-qqsX-RBwBBJ0IV71Ugtf7UbweDtIvAHXccPyh2OvDEOMxHw8DLH1PsPndWkuFmSVKycxQWagxJv_yifyV972dDRGSMOD2ioDGA1iTzwBQOvMmh9FS4QV2jtLvSSo4NmJ4mvfGCcY/s640/20190923_131008.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><i>The Tunstall archers were unable to withstand twice their numbers of fierce hillmen but they gave a good account of themselves. Perhaps if the Mercenary handgunners were less heavily armoured they would have been in time to aid them.</i></b></span></td></tr>
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The fighting continued fiercely with losses on both sides but the frustrated spearmen could not intervene until the enemy gave way or only the dead bodies of the mercenaries lay between them.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bsOD1J_urgI/XYpZ7A0LBiI/AAAAAAAAgz0/lcO-Rt-mQIYpCeOtSWifMsF_FSgrIS2KwCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/20190924_141414.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bsOD1J_urgI/XYpZ7A0LBiI/AAAAAAAAgz0/lcO-Rt-mQIYpCeOtSWifMsF_FSgrIS2KwCLcBGAsYHQ/s640/20190924_141414.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i><span style="font-size: small;">With the Archers and Mercenaries out of the way, the Spears pushed over the bridge but the soft ground on either side stopped them from deploying until they pushed the enemy back a little farther.</span></i></b></td></tr>
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The Hillmen fought bravely, falling back occasionally before charging wildly in again with javelins and heavy battle axes but the hedgehog of spears pushed slowly forward. Eventually the slaughter was too great and a horn sounded in the rear. In a flash the way was open as the remaining hillmen ran back through the marsh where the Midlish foot floundered when they pursued. Now, only the knot of Spearmen barred the way.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i><span style="font-size: small;">Ar last the eager Sir John and his Black Company crossed over with the Earl himself close behind.</span></i></b></td></tr>
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Supported by showers of arrows the Midlish knights spurred forward, Even once the narrowest defile was passed though, there was only room for two companies. Heavy armour protected man and horse but the hedge of spearpoints made it difficult for them to reach their enemies. As charge followed charge, more spearmen fell but the shadows soon began to lengthen.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i><span style="font-size: small;">The sun is setting. </span></i></b></td></tr>
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Many a Westman lay dead on the field but even more Midlish soldiers lay with them. Even if this stubborn knot of spearmen was broken, this was not a good place for a Midlish army to camp for the night while to attempt to push on through the woods in the dark would be sheer folly.<br />
<br />
The Earl ordered his trumpeter to sound the Retreat and led his household back over the bridge.<br />
<br />Ross Mac rmacfa@gmail.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04053555991679802013noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-150915073362325928.post-88188247662440289202019-09-21T16:06:00.000-07:002019-09-24T14:17:53.425-07:00The Way is ShutYou shall not pass.<br />
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The long awaited Midlish expedition into the Westlands has begun.<br />
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<br />Ross Mac rmacfa@gmail.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04053555991679802013noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-150915073362325928.post-31524904161955443592019-01-10T19:08:00.000-08:002019-12-02T04:46:10.296-08:00In the Shadow of the Black TowerMany months had passed since Sir John of Raven's Wood Tower, Captain of the Pass, better known as the Black Knight, had led his <a href="https://gatheringofhosts.blogspot.com/2017/07/skirmish-on-border.html">men across the mountains to make a preemptive strike</a> on the peaceful farmers of Dale. For months afterwards the Warden of the West March stood guard against retaliation but at last the danger seemed to have passed.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><b>Earl of Cowcross, Warden of the West March</b></i><br />
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The men of the North are patient and canny though. After a suitable delay, the three nations which make up the Federation all agreed to supply troops for a fast moving raid: Dalish lancers and light archers, Valdurian Light horse and foot and Herdsmen Horse Archers. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lord Bedewyr with Dalish Lancers and Herdsmen.</td></tr>
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The raiders blazed a trail of destruction from the East Pass across the West March to the Great Pass. If the Black Tower could not be passed then there was still a route home through the Forsaken Lands west of the mountains. As the raiders neared the mouth of the Great Pass though and saw the Earl's banners, it was clear that any passage would have to be paid in blood.<br />
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The Earl swiftly deployed his men as the Northern horse archers rode forward to harass them. Arrows soon began to fill the air. At this point, a horn blew from the tower and the garrison sallied forth to bar the pass against the raiders that they could see approaching.<br />
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To the North, the Valdurian contingent sped ahead, eager to get to grips. The cavalry were first, upholding their ferocious traditions. The Black Horsemen spurred forward but despite their armour they barely held the wild horsemen in check and as the lines closed again the Tower guardians were forced back with heavy losses with the mounted crossbowmen fleeing back to the Tower gates.<br />
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At the sight of this triumph, the wild Valdurian tribesmen rushed forward from the rocky slopes of the pass, screaming and waving their swords as they charged. The Tower crossbowmen, veterans of many a skirmish and battle weren't rattled and after riddling the enemy with powerful bolts, drew their swords and braced their pavises.<br />
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The shock of the impact could be heard across the valley but the veteran tower guards held firm, cutting down the unarmoured tribesmen. Their Chieftain, in a desperate attempt to break the shieldwall, threw himself upon it, struggling to seize and pull down a pavise until it was suddenly pulled aside and a pointblank crossbow bolt transfixed him. The shocked tribesmen turned and ran.<br />
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On the plain the Dalish lancers held back while the horse archers darted forward and back, striking the Midlish with devilish accuracy. The Earl knew he had one chance, the trumpets sounded along the line. Down came the lances as the heavy horse began to thunder forward but the Dalish lancers, fewer in numbers and lighter in armour, were every bit as bold. They spurred forward to meet them. Three times the lines came together while the horse archers darted in and out but at last the Midlish horse broke and rode for safety.<br />
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The Duke pulled his men back and turned to go finish clearing the pass.<br />
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As the Valdurian troops rallied, the convoy continued to advance, now under a heavy and increasingly accurate fire from the Great Gun mounted on the tower. The convoy archers deployed and prepared to engage the pass defenders when the local levies suddenly emerged from the woods and town. These veteran frontiersmen were deadly shots while the canon added to the havoc. Under cover of the barrage, a small clump of spearmen led by Baron Robert advanced quickly on the convoy. Brushing aside the remaining archers they closed on the carts.<br />
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The men driving the carts were Valdurian warriors though and put up a fierce fight. When the Valdurian cavalry joined them, the spearmen were first driven back then finally broken but damage had been done.<br />
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Losses had been heavy on both sides but the Federate cavalry was still in good shape. Against them stood only the Black Knight and his remaining handful of knights and crossbowmen. Cheered by the site of the proud Duke at the head of his Household Lancers, the Valdurian tribesmen were moved to rejoin the fray. Charging down from the rocks they caught the crossbows off guard and drove them fleeing back into the tower.<br />
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Duke Bedwyr drove his lancers up the hill, screaming a challenge to the Black Knight who spurred to meet him. Moments later the Duke was cut down and his men scattered. <br />
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Taking advantage of the confusion, the remaining Valdurian tribesmen slipped past the tower and headed for home while the remaining horsemen scattered and headed west before the Midlish forces could organize a pursuit.<br />
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For the convoy though, there was no escape and the local archers cautiously approached with an eye to 'securing' the goods. Alas for the North, all the survivors brought back from the Duke's Raid were sad songs and heroic tales.<br />
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<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">(see <a href="http://gatheringofhosts.blogspot.com/2019/01/behind-black-tower.html">Behind the Black Tower</a> for behind the scenes info)</span></i></div>
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Ross Mac rmacfa@gmail.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04053555991679802013noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-150915073362325928.post-48606630140367254842019-01-10T18:14:00.000-08:002019-09-24T14:17:52.747-07:00Behind the Black Tower.<br />
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<i>This post has a few technical notes and explanation for the battle report called<b> </b></i></div>
<i></i><br />
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<i><i><b><span style="font-size: large;">"<a href="https://gatheringofhosts.blogspot.com/2019/01/in-shadow-of-black-tower.htmlhttps://gatheringofhosts.blogspot.com/2019/01/in-shadow-of-black-tower.html">In the Shadow of the Black Tower</a>"</span>.</b></i></i></div>
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For background please refer to the <a href="https://gatheringofhosts.blogspot.com/2013/12/legendary-lands-glimpsed-through-mists.html">Legendary Lands Glimpsed Through the Mists of Time</a>. This campaign has been more or less on hold for several years despite the occasional game and new unit but I feel the urge to get back to refurbishing old figures, adding a few newer recasts, harmonizing basing and polishing rules, and background material.<br />
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The figures are OS25mm, a mix of my original (<i>now vintage</i>) figures from the 1970's, some newer recasts and all sorts of strays that have found a place.<br />
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The defenders were led by the Earl of Cowcross, Warden of the West March in the Midlands with a mobile reaction force of cavalry and archers assisted by the Captain of the Black Tower, sometimes called the Black Knight, with his garrison and the veteran local border levies.<br />
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<b>Reaction force.</b><br />
1 Knights w Commander<br />
3 Lancers<br />
2 Archers<br />
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<b>Local Levies</b><br />
1 Spearmen with Commander<br />
1 Archer<br />
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<b>Tower Garrison</b><br />
1 Knights w Commander.<br />
1 Mounted Crossbow<br />
1 Foot Crossbow<br />
1 Artillery<br />
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The raiders were led by Duke Bedwyr.<br />
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<b>Main Body</b><br />
2 Dalish Lancers with Commander<br />
4 Herdsmen Horse Archers<br />
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<b>Valdurians </b><br />
<b>(</b><i><b>*</b><span style="font-size: x-small;">Trivia:</span></i><i><span style="font-size: x-small;"> The Valdurians are amongst the 45 year old veterans and their leader was once my least fortunate General, </span><b>ever</b><span style="font-size: x-small;">. Luckily one of my most fortunate leaders will be returning to service as soon as he can be given a new prosthetic sword hand.</span></i>)<br />
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2 Light Lancers<br />
2 Tribesmen inc Leader<br />
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<b>Train</b><br />
1 Commander<br />
1 Dalish Archer<br />
1 Mercenary Archer<br />
3 carts or equivalent with guards.<br />
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The raiders, under the command of Duke Bedwyr may exit the Western table edge (<i>left on the pictures</i>) or the pass (<i>far end of the table</i>) however the baggage train may only exit through the pass.<br />
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The rules are the latest version of Gathering of Hosts. This is a set of home grown rules developed from Rough Wooing, a Morschauser inspired set of 16thC rules developed by Rob Dean and I in 2002. Each stand is a unit, with units being grouped into "Battles" each assigned to a card. Turn sequence is determined by shuffling the deck then pulling one at a time with that group of units resolving moving, shooting and combat before the next card is drawn. Movement is variable length.<br />
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A "Battle" that loses over 1/2 of its stands is essentially out of the battle. When one side concedes or runs out of "battle"s the game is over.<br />
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After much experimentation I am now happy with the basic form of the rules and need to work on adding more details, troop types and so on not to mention explanations.<br />
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<br />Ross Mac rmacfa@gmail.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04053555991679802013noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-150915073362325928.post-56164410849457599322019-01-08T18:37:00.000-08:002019-09-24T14:17:52.843-07:00Turn and Turn AboutIn response to the Midlish raid over the mountains, (<a href="http://gatheringofhosts.blogspot.com/2017/07/skirmish-on-border.html">see here</a>) the Northern Federation eventually mounted a series of retaliatory raids.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxXVO9z4E4R9_Q2XeLSbkQ5SIJzpEtkISeLws9BanNSqs38iOY7kn40QxKGBH1mKBx0noc-YMoB2tPZekJqv_kJ5gKZ9XLd8mShLWv9k4EGRRQW7lrNTKjn-_2v5LweC8Htl1eamqlilQ/s1600/Black+Tower+.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1590" data-original-width="1600" height="635" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxXVO9z4E4R9_Q2XeLSbkQ5SIJzpEtkISeLws9BanNSqs38iOY7kn40QxKGBH1mKBx0noc-YMoB2tPZekJqv_kJ5gKZ9XLd8mShLWv9k4EGRRQW7lrNTKjn-_2v5LweC8Htl1eamqlilQ/s640/Black+Tower+.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> <i><b>Valdurian Scouts approaching the Black Tower.</b><br /><b>(</b>Artist's Impression<b>)</b></i></td></tr>
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Slipping raiders across the long border was rarely difficult. Getting them home was harder, getting them home with loot harder again!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KPeZEqFh3Wg/XDVAfFtlwJI/AAAAAAAAcjw/NwzCYc1mU6IX2PjGHhwmm46pUSbwRBu9QCLcBGAs/s1600/Black%2BTower2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="481" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KPeZEqFh3Wg/XDVAfFtlwJI/AAAAAAAAcjw/NwzCYc1mU6IX2PjGHhwmm46pUSbwRBu9QCLcBGAs/s640/Black%2BTower2.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>A Midlish relief column approaches the Black Tower from the south as the Northern raiders appear on their way home.</i></b></td></tr>
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What happens next? We'll know soon enough.Ross Mac rmacfa@gmail.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04053555991679802013noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-150915073362325928.post-42142408439018596842018-06-17T16:08:00.001-07:002019-09-24T14:17:52.645-07:00Fire burn and cauldron bubble.Bet you weren't expecting this to appear on Gathering of Hosts:<br />
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A few years ago this vignette was one of several RAFM sets that I couldn't resist as long as I was ordering... something or other. Now they are painted.<br />
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Haven't decided yet if they should be gloss varnished and added to the People of the Forests host or not.Ross Mac rmacfa@gmail.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04053555991679802013noreply@blogger.com5