Emperor vs Elector

Proxy naval battle AAR

2012-01-17T13:29:00.000-08:00

Thanks to the selfless collaboration of Jeroen72, another proxy fighting played for the Defiant Principality can be now read at our weblog. Despite the lack of game pictures, I honestly believe that Jeroen72's thrilling account allows us to vividly imagine the scene. On my side, I've done my best to illustrate the narration with images the most appropriate I've been able to find.

If curious, you can read the whole AAR at this blog posting.

PROXY BATTLE AAR

2012-01-14T16:33:00.000-08:00

The After Action Report for the Proxy Battle will be up shortly on MurdockS MarauderS.

We has some fun setting up for the game, it was blazing fast! With only two small cavalry forces being in action this should come as no surprise.

Battle by Proxy

2012-01-12T11:20:00.000-08:00

A proxy battle is going to be played out by the team of gamers with MurdockS MarauderS.

We shall see what comes of this cavalry skirmish ...

Read all about it this coming weekend!

Historic Time Line

2012-01-09T06:08:00.000-08:00

The History of Hesse-Kassoulet's Royal lineage is now complete. Complete as far as good manners will allow and with out letting any skeletons out of the closet. Link

Why are the skeletons still in the closet, hmmph, domestics nowadays.

Scandal in Hesse-Cassoulet

2012-01-08T21:03:00.000-08:00

Fronsay Marshal Vile Lars (Vile by name vile by nature) arrived in court today in a rather agitated mood. Whats this all about?

Where's that scoundrel Tall Lard

Proxy games available

2012-01-08T13:56:00.000-08:00

Due to a thankfully happy event (my gaming mate's wife is about to have their second child), we're in the dilemma of either halting our Imagi-Nation's campaign for several weeks, or seeking a temporary gaming adversary, or seeking EvE's community help by proxy gaming some of our most recent military encounters.

It also happens that our 13^th campaign turn, corresponding to the 2^nd week of October 1713, has produced up to three different confrontations. All of them involving a small amount of troops, all different to each other: a field battle between two balanced Horse forces, a street fighting between a town's garrison and its revolted population, and the naval interception of a small convoy by a privateer.

If necessary, I could gather the figures due for gaming the second battle, although most scenario items should be improvised somehow. But I have neither Horse forces or ships enough for the other two. Is anyone needing a scenario for training his generals/admirals skills?

Some more info at this blog posting. Detailed scenario data would be worked out for eventual volunteers, of course.

New Format - EvE Who's Who and What's What - now available

2011-12-31T06:22:00.000-08:00

The scribes at the monastery of alt-Wittendorf have been busy under the supervision of Brother James preparing the 3rd Edition of "EvE Who's Who and What's What" to be ready in time for the new year.

The new format "EvE Who's Who and What's What" website is now up and running at:

https://sites.google.com/site/evewhoswho/

please check your entries, use the 'Contact the Editor' under general links group to open the page to use the mailto Email link to submit updates and additions.

Note: the old EvE Who's Who site now displays link to new site (may need to refresh browser to see this), old site can be accessed via a link provided.

A new look for EvE Whos Who

2011-12-28T04:58:00.000-08:00

I've been looking to find a better way of doing EvE Who's Who with more flexibility. Initially I have decided to move it from my own web page space to a Google website format. The advantage of this for me is a better simple GUI editor and site management; also have the facility to add others who can edit the site so we can have other contributors.

I've done an initial trial of the new site, see https://sites.google.com/site/evewhoswho/. Will move rest of pages over - when done will let you know;
Feedback please

A thought...

2011-12-27T23:43:00.000-08:00

Good Morning Sirs!

I wondered ,as we approach the end of the year ,I might make a suggestion? I would like to remind the company of EvE that I,for one,including many others I fear, would be interested in seeing the updating of the book "Who's who in Eve" in include entries from our newer memebers and allow older ones to update. Also in order to fully utilse this glorious community could we work upon a grand map so we could once more see our place and those of others in Europa- to aid alliances,invasions,alarms &excursions in the coming year?

Joachim Snagen
University of Uhwerkhausen
Umstrittental

Couriers to Wittenberg

2011-12-26T13:15:00.000-08:00

October 11^th, 1713

...Couriers have already arrived in Kingdom of Wittenberg taking personal messages from both Emperor Charles VI and Princess Elisenda to H.M. King Leopold, letting him know in advance the scheduled journey of that young Galatan/Catalan Lady through his land, as well as some confidential details about her otherwise small retinue. A more detailed file comprising listings and safe-conduct copies have also been delivered to Count Hermann Munster.

[Out of character, please consider Princess Elisenda retinue already on their way and about to enter Wittenberg, so that she can be freely introduced in an ppropriate scene at will, accordingly with your own interests. I'm going to suspend for a while my Defiant Principality narrations on her particular journey, in order not to hamper eventual scenes/adventures inside Wittenberg. If any interest or need to contact me whatever the reason for, my usual gaming e-mail is soldadets [at] wargames [dot] cat --Lluis ]

Couriers up and down

2011-12-23T14:31:00.000-08:00

...Couriers have been dispatched by Emperor Charles VI to King Louis XIV at Versailles, and also to Wittenberg and the rest of lands on the Vienna - Paris road, acknowledging them on the imminent journey through their respective countries of an official retinue under His protection: Lady Elisenda Folc de Cardona, who has just been appointed as Princess of Galatea/Catalonia by His Imperial Majesty, wishes to arrive in Gallia as safely and fast as possible, with the aim to obtain King Louis' approval to the appointment and ease the achievement of a satisfactory peace with that powerful Nation.

The above mentioned couriers are carrying full detailed accounts on the journey scheduled milestones, retinue members listings and safe-conducts to be delivered to respective Authorities, along with a request on the additional measures they esteem appropriate to ensure the retinue's peaceful transit through their lands. The retinue itself can be identifiable through the two standards they will carry:

Also, others couriers have been sent by Princess Elisenda herself to the Sovereigns of Poland, Beerstein and Lagerburg-Slobbovia, acknowleding them on her pledge to visit their respective Imagi-Nations as soon as her duties in Versailles are duly fulfilled.

Details on the whole can be learnt here.

In the Umstrittental today...

2011-12-17T08:16:00.000-08:00

News is breaking of an encounter between the forces of the the Imperium and the Duchy of Tradgardland. For further details see the Duchy of Tradgardland blog...

Death of a Grand Duke!

2011-12-16T13:46:00.000-08:00

From the pages of the Pappenheim Zeitung

The bell is tolling as the slow procession wends it's way though the streets of Traunsberg led by the hearse bearing the body of Grand-Duke Otto of Pommaine and escorted by the household troops of the Grand-Duchy. Citizens of the Duchy lined the streets to pay their last respects to their ruler, who despite his warmongering early years had managed to find a middle course through the struggles of the middle of the century by supporting equal support to most other protagonists in their dynastic struggles. Following the hearse was a carriage containing the grand-Duke's second wife Maria and his younger son Konrad. There was much speculation about why his surviving sun and heir-apparent Karl was not present. Some felt it was a sign of the continued estrangement between father and son that seemed to have started when the eldest son Johan was killed during the last conflict involving the Prussians and Austrians. Others, less charitably, have suggested that his wife, the Emperoror's niece, Lieselotte was more interested in Viennese society.

All will be revealed tomorrow when the Grand-Duke's will is read and it seems that various powers with an interest in the region will be attending to see what final surprise the Grand-Duke will spring, if any.

Honor Accepted

2011-12-12T08:29:00.001-08:00

Prince Adelbert of Franistover, claimant to the throne of Unkerlant, proudly wears his newest honor, the Military Order of the Golden Crown, presented to His Serene Highness by the Reich Duchy of Beerstien.

Pursuit of Lady de Winter

2011-12-10T22:12:00.000-08:00

Eugene: "And so My Lady, the villains were en-route to Hesse-Seewald today."

Pettygree: "A pattern develops Captain and the fog begins to lift. Find that blackguard coach and deliver the owner to me Monsieur. Your reward will be beyond your dreams!

For the story see:
http://campaignsingermania.blogspot.com/2011/12/let-loose-hornets.html

Respectfully,
Bill

The Battle of Altenbruk...

2011-12-09T08:02:00.000-08:00

A final duel by old rivals, over at the Baron's Blog:

Lady Diana Pettygree Arrives At Fulda's Roadhouse

2011-12-02T19:16:00.000-08:00

For the prelude to her continuing story see, The Campaigns In Germania Blog here:
http://campaignsingermania.blogspot.com/2011/12/4th-annnual-bar-light-troop-game-day.html

Respectfully,
Bill

Pulpy...

2011-12-01T12:29:00.000-08:00

The Sleeping Wolf Wakes

2011-11-20T20:11:00.000-08:00

It was the dream of Ullo Chubakov to bring his people into a new era of unity and prosperity. It was his dream to end generations of infighting, vendetta, and petty warfare. In this dream the wide expanses of the Alcovian Steppes were be bathed in endless fields of golden wheat and not blood.

The Sleeping Wolf would wake and it would make the world hear it's howl!

Join me in exploring the birth of the Kingdom of Alcovia.

Further movement in a seven years warz game

2011-11-20T15:47:00.000-08:00

The Grand Mappe after three major moves ...

This time the big battle actions took place:

The BIG BATTLE was for Pilsner, the capitol of Saxe-Bearstein, facing odds of 1.4 to one the Austrian armies under Daun and Bearstein forces fought hard, even having a successful round in the middle of the day, some 4 hours after the first artillery barrages though the Austrians and Bearsteiners were in retreat. Indeed the pursuit was fierce enough to wipe out the remaining Bearstein forces. With some 60% casualties overall the allied force under Daun, who narrowly escaped injury when a battery nearby exploded, has consolidated in Burtzenia. A new all-Austrian line now faces the Altmoranian hordes. In the same battle Prince Henry of Altmorania was badly wounded when thrown from his horse following a charge that the had successfully led. Though sill with the army Prince Henry is not able to effectively take command.

On the east front of Altmorania, the siege of Miastokrol is over, with some 25% casualties the Altmoranian forces have withdrawn leaving Russians in control of the defences under the command of General Solikov.

East of Tipplebruder a Stagonian army was repulsed by the forces of the Empress.
Those retreating Stagonians will now be seeking shelter and not in any mood to be rebuffed...

Further Stagonian aggression was into Vienna! Again the results were terrible for Stagonia ... 55% casualties and the rest were taken prisoner.

Other actions were at sea with the Britannains utterly destroying Dutch shipping off the coast of Ober Nord Westfalen.

Pragmatica Sanctio

2011-11-19T15:40:00.000-08:00

Vienna, 1^st October 1713

...or how Emperor-King Charles VI intentions are finally unveiled after the development of parallel conversations respectively held by Eugene of Savoy at Rastatt and Marquis of Vilana at Monte-Cristo, and how these do affect our graceful Lady Elisenda Folc de Cardona. With a last minute starring appearance of Herr William, first Baron of Beerstein.

If curious, you can read the event thoroughful report here: Pragmatica Sanctio

Franistover Triumphant

2011-11-18T08:30:00.000-08:00

I am but mere chronicler of these sad times. As Unkerlant stretches into its second year of war for Succession, our focus shifts to the northeast, where duchy of Zlobenia has invaded the Principality of Franistover...
See the battle of Derlopp over at the Baron's Blog.

Frankfurt Am Main Tête-à-tête

2011-11-10T21:31:00.000-08:00

Date: 11 November 1761/2011
Location: Frankfurt Am Main - The Largest Gallian Magazine in Germania
Specifically: l'Intendant l'Comte de Bastille's HQ
Situation: Tête-à-tête
--------------------
The war between Gallia and Hesse-Seewald is now in its sixth year. Activities in 1761/2011 once again resulted in a stalemate on all fronts. Cost has been staggering for all parties. Gallia has turned to allies Russi and Saxe-Raschstein to raise and pay for new Army units. Hesse-Seewald sent almost half of the Army away as mercenaries to replenish its coffers. Meanwhile on 11 November....

Lieutenant Général Chevert ascends the stairway of l'Comte de Bastille's headquarters at the Gallian magazine for a private tête-à-tête.

Bastille: "Bonsoir Chevert, mon ami de guerre." (Good evening my war companion)
Chevert: "Oui Monsieur l'Intendant ... bonsoir."
Bastille: "This way, if you please ... into my office."

Bastille: "What news Chevert?"
Chevert: "The most astounding opportunity has developed to end the war!"
Bastille: "We've stalemated for six years. What could it be? "

Chevert: "I will tell you. The Czar has significantly increased his Army raising new units and by bringing more regular and reserve battalions and squadrons closer to East Prussia. Prinz Wilhelm of Saxe-Raschstein recently pledged to field additional cavalry, infantry and artillery as well to oust the Germanians from his electorate. Finally our old foe, Hesse-Seewald has sent nearly half it's Army away as mercenaries."

Bastille: "I am taken aback Monsieur l'Général."

Chevert: "You must be ready Bastille to bring all supplies to maximum proportions and insure that our hosts, The Frankzonians - especially Der Gross Herzhog Artur - cheerfully cooperate."

Bastille: "Oui. Surely they will if they realize with the possibility of the war ending, we will depart for Gallia leaving them to rebuild their industries and their Germanic lives."

Chevert: "Let us hope so. Meanwhile, we will soon commence a winter surprise. Let us now look at the map and the infamous Fulda Gap."
----------

Closing Remarks:

{1} Arthur if you read this, let us hear from you ... my dear fellow! Arise.

{2} Our annual light troop game is scheduled on 3 December. The above is a preamble to that game day.

{3} The annual winter terrain game will further the story sometime in February at Der Alte's Fritz's new and fabulous game room.

{4} A month or two later we will resume the BIG Battalion Game Day at a venue in Woodstock, IL on three tables each sized 6'x28'. Shocking amount of space, I know.

{5} Further information about The Fulda Gap will be available in a week or two on The Campaigns In Germania Blog.
--------------------
Adieu, mes amis,
Bill

Horror in Venice

2011-11-09T01:45:00.001-08:00

during the Carnevale....

Another Catalan-Occitan Imagi-Nation

2011-11-01T10:07:00.000-07:00

TRYPHEME

For those specially interested in this 'Eveuropean' area and, having already accepted alternate / 'what-if?' History, then 'original' political geography (Poictesme), are willing to go one step beyond (would it be madness?), adding a limited geographical alteration.

Worth listening to...

2011-10-18T22:54:00.000-07:00

http://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/console/b015yt86
Go here for an interesting bbc radio 4 programme on Germany- enjoy! It's called "The invention of Germany" and was broadcast on Monday night

French Imagi-Battalions

2011-10-17T06:19:00.000-07:00

These are my first two Imagi-battalions to be added to my French army, the Corps du Vin (which I have already built, using real wine-producing regional Regiments - Champagne, Touraine, Medoc etc). However the rapid buildup of Perfidious Albion on the continent has necessitated reinforcements.

On the left is the Regiment de Poictesme (see the post below on EvE for the background to this), with the eventual design of the Drapeau d'Ordonnance we discussed shown here. Poictesme is an imaginary Southern French region imagined by the writer James Branch Cavell in his series of books. I imagine the Regiment Poictesme as an ex Milices unit (so it is in white at the moment, no cuff or turnback colours...though they may come in time...)

On the right is the Batalion Valais, a Swiss battalion from the Valais wine region, this was invented thanks to some EvE and TMP people's input - taking the Napoleonic era Batalion Valais and imagining what it would look like in French service in the Seven Years War , complete with a suitable Drapeau from Valais's colours.

I put them up here rather than on my blog, even though unfinished* as we have been talking about the Poictesme flag on EvE all last week and this just seemed a nicer way of displaying my final design :).

To follow in the Corps du Vin's "Brigade Imaginaire" is the Lorraine imagi-Regiment Mosel and the contingent contributed by my German Imagi-Nation, Saxe-Märchen

(*Apologies - flags unweathered, troops unwashed, un-drybrushed, and even still deflocked as I have just rebased the entire army onto 2" frontage, 1" depth bases)

Poictesme - a French Imagi-Nation

2011-10-09T06:33:00.000-07:00

I was looking at potential fictional French areas for an Imaginary regiment for my French 7YW army, and came across the Imagi-Nation Poictesme - Wikipedia:

"Poictesme (pronounced "pwa-tem") is a fictional country or province which forms the setting of the fantasy works of James Branch Cabell, known collectively as The Biography of Manuel. Poictesme is ruled by the Count Dom Manuel. It was the author's intention to situate Poictesme roughly in the south of France. The name suggests the two real French cities of Poitiers (medieval Poictiers) and Angoulême (medieval Angoulesme)"

If anyone knows the Drapeau d'Ordonnance of Poictesme I'd be interested :)

Update - have uploaded a drawing of a Drapeau as discussed in the comments

...and here is teh Drapeau I thought of originally...

The Grand Chessboard

2011-10-02T22:42:00.000-07:00

First Moves Completed in a 7 Years Warz Match
(click on image for a complete version of the mappe)
* the map is very large & may take a few seconds to load *

See some details at Österreich Über Alles and The Duchy of Mieczyslaw essentially the Prussian forces have pressed south into Saxe-Bearstein and the Russians into East Prussia and Mieczyslaw.

Re 18th century other races...

2011-10-02T04:09:00.000-07:00

I am currently thinking about antiquarian adventurers belonging to a Antiquarian society based in Tradgardland. They will be used in dungeon/wideness adventures.Today I was pondering how other "fantasy races" such as elves,orcs and dwarves would have developed in the 18th century- any thoughts figure suggestions?
best wishes
Alan

Packs etc

2011-09-25T05:41:00.000-07:00

Can anyone suggest a source of 25mm/28mm scale packs,pouches,spare weapons and sundry items to equip an 18th century adventurer prior to going off on an adventure?
many thanks in anticipation
Alan

(tech info) -- Favicoms

2011-09-25T04:19:00.000-07:00

Gentlemen,

If you scroll down the list of our personal blogs on the right you will notice that some of us have have our Imagi-Nation flags displayed instead of the usual "Blogger B".

You too can proudly fly your Imagi-Nations colors. While I don't know how it works for other blog program, most of us are with Blogger and I can tell you how to accomplish it for that program.

Go to your Dashboard. Find the "Design" heading under your personal blog. Click on it.

Under the heading "Add and Arrange Page Elements" (and above the "Navbar" you should see a small orange "B", the word "Favicom" and Edit. Click on Edit.

A box will appear asking you to upload a square image of less that 100Kb in size . . . which it will resize for your new favicom.

When it has done that, be sure to click the "SAVE" button and Blogger should do the rest.

I look forward to seeing more of us flying our country's colors.

-- Jeff

Encounter by full moon light

2011-09-15T21:15:00.001-07:00

Will the benefactor please stand up...

2011-09-09T06:22:00.000-07:00

On arrival home from work today I found a letter addressed to me containing a lovely 25mm plastic lantern and pole. I cannot read the signature and wondered if my kind benefactor might let me know so I could say a heartfelt thanks...

Can you shine a light on this (apologies for pun)

2011-09-02T23:46:00.000-07:00

Can you tell me who manufactures 25/28mm lanterns? Particularly the portable kind a figure could carry.
thanks
Alan

Battle of Montblanc, 4th October 1713

2011-08-27T08:39:00.000-07:00

Taking advantage of a gap in the Hispannic/Spanish lines leaving unprotected a town that was key to the communication between two of their major armies, two Galatan/Catalan columns converged upon that town -not other than Montblanc, a beautiful medieval city not far from Tarragona where Catalan mythology sets their version of the Legend of Saint George and the Dragon!

As it couldn't be otherwise, Saint George clearly favoured the Galatans and allowed them to release the town, expelling from it the Hispannic garrison -not without an after battle intense negotiation, while sunlight was slowly fading away. This was finally arranged in a honourable way to the Hispannic commander, whose men had so bravely behaved in spite of numerical inferiority...

If curious, you can read the illustrated battle report here: Montblanc town released!

New Campaign system for Cyberboard

2011-08-19T00:04:00.000-07:00

Game Opening Position

I have started a sample of the Seven Years War system for Cyberboard that I have been working on the parts for over the last few years.

Going to game it out using many different systems.

Check out the parts in action on my Duchy of Mieczyslaw blog.

Battle of Hesselbach, July 30, 1761/2011

2011-08-16T10:59:00.000-07:00

Shortly after the Battle of Waldeck, reported here and on the Campaigns in Germania blog and Der Alte Fritz Journal, the forces of the Electorische Armee Thueringen and the Reichsarmeeabteilung Obere-Sachsen collided at the little village of Hesselbach near Schweinfurt.

Photo by Col Campbell

For a complete report, see the Jackson Gamers blog. LINK

2011-08-14T10:07:00.000-07:00

Ardoberg-Holstein and St. Maurician Frontier

For those of you who may be interested, here's a map of the Ardoberg-Holstein and St. Maurician frontier to better understand the tide of war as currently described ( or maybe the term is misrepresented) on the respective blog sites.

Moving images of The Empress of Russia

2011-08-10T05:36:00.000-07:00

Two documents about the youth and early achievements of Czarina Ekaterina Alekseyevna are -for the time being- freely visible in full through the Strange Sidelight:
- The Rise of Catherine the Great,
- The Scarlet Empress.

As it's so often the case, their historical accuracy is debatable; the second, specially, is crammed with 'surreal' images, but the upstairs mounted charge (the 'coup' starts # 1:34:00) is as memorable as spectacular.

Edited: As a matter of old movies featuring Catherine, and on a totally fanciful note (the film was a comedy, and indeed a parody of the 'Frederician' propaganda movies of the time), Baron Münchausen dines and more with the Czarina, before riding a cannonball (shrewdly shot by a jealous Potemkin).
From the 1943 movie Münchhausen visible in full (and Agfacolor) on YouTube.

An invitation...

2011-08-07T23:01:00.000-07:00

Any fellow imaginations wishing to send representitives ( 25mm or 28mm mounted or on foot) to accompany either the Duke of Tradgardland or Graf von Apfelstrudel on their respective campaigns are invited to send their details to the respective camps now as the campaign season begins in earnest. Chaplains,natural philosphers, aide de camp, diverse characters and mere observers are most welcome. A place may be open to inspiring gentlemen within regiments too...

Teddy Bear Wars: Battle of Sugar Town by DAF

2011-08-06T21:56:00.000-07:00

The Victor: Lady Emma Cuddlestone-Smythe and the Blue Bear Army.

Gentlemen: follow the link to the stirring account of the battle between the Blue Bear Army of Lady Emma Cuddlestone Smythe and the Pink Bear Army of His Lordship, Lord Paddington Bear.

link

The Loser: Lord Paddington Bear

Meanwhile, in Unkerlant

2011-08-02T08:55:00.001-07:00

I realize news from the current struggle in Unkerlant has been sparse. Life and missing participants always plague campaigns, but I hope to soon kick start some activity.

Recently, Borogravian forces were bloodily repelled in the Arch Duchy of Volborg. The battle itself was particularly brutal on horse flesh, and both sides have become scarce on cavalry. Borogravia was able to find a pass through the mountains and across the treacherous River Vollen, thanks to traitorous cur of a local lord.

Meanwhile, across the country, Franistover and Zlobenia face off for control of the west, in what is sure to be a titanic battle (by Unkerlant standards).

A fictional question..

2011-08-01T23:42:00.000-07:00

Anyone point me in the right direction for some novels with a military flavour set in the mid 18th century- your recommendations are eagerly sought...
Many thanks
Alan

Flags of the Duchy of Bieberhof

2011-07-28T04:51:00.000-07:00

An invitation

2011-07-27T23:40:00.000-07:00

The Duke of Tradgardland invites all comers to sample the delights of his new Pleasure Gardens now open in Tradgardstadt. The Duke's inspiration comes from this magificant painting of the Vauxhall Gardens by the painter Senoro Canaletto ...

Ambassadors wishing an invitation to the opening of the new Gardens are asked to formally apply here - the Masque and accompanying pyrotechnical extravanganza takes place on the 30th of July. All are welcome to sample the Duke's generosity.

Landgrave of Lorraine attacks Beerstein

2011-07-19T17:28:00.000-07:00

After weeks of maneuvers on the northern border of the Reich Duchy of Beerstein, Landgrave of Lorraine forces crossed into the Barony of Brewski and quickly captured the Heineken Abbey. Reich Duke Wilhelm was only able to muster a small force of two infantry brigades, a cuirassier brigade, the Holstein Leib Hussars, and the Slitz Artillery Battery to attempt to stall the Lorraine Advance. The first encounter at Heineken Abbey is posted on the Beerstein site.

Battle of Cronkite Gap

2011-07-04T17:20:00.000-07:00

Besides the pictures posted on the Nomadic Old School Gamer's blog, a report from the Britannian commander has been posted on the Jackson Gamers blog of a July 2nd battle bewtween the Britanno-Hannuber army and the Gallian army using Lord Sterling's 15mm figures.

The battle in the center as the Gallian assault prepares to advance against the village of Brinkley, defended by the Britannians.

Additional pictures will be posted shortly.

EDIT: And now have been on the Jackson Gamers web site.

Garden Wars returns for 2011

2011-07-03T19:44:00.000-07:00

The Garden Wars have returned in 2011 and this is the first installment.

Read the AAR on MurdockS MarauderS

Bitten by the Raj bug.

2011-07-03T13:32:00.000-07:00

I started another imagi-nation here is the link http://sunahraraj.blogspot.com/

A never-ending plot

2011-07-03T02:58:00.000-07:00

We've just dropped a new layer of complication to the Defiant Principality general plot, expressed by the addition of a new playing character whose role is likely to become key in the desperate war that rebel Principality is fighting against their powerful lord, King Philip V of Hispannia. This new character is Lord Guillem Ramon VIII de Montcada, Marquis of Aitona, Colonel of the Hispannic Guards Household Infantry and the main supporter of King Philip among the High Nobility of Galatea/Catalonia.

If our first storyboard layer consisted just of war of a minor Nation against a major Power, shown in a simplified and therefore, somewhat manichean point of view (the enemy are "the evil ones", you know), we later added a second layer on, intended to exploit future internal dissents (through a popular, republican party eventually confronted to the ruling class). Now, this new third layer is aimed at going further beyond, showing Hispannic internal tensions about the ultimate solution to be applied to the rebel Principality, as well as a new episode of struggle -this time, between the two most powerful nobiliary houses in Galatea/Catalonia: those of Cardona and Montcada, each of them siding to one of the WSS pretenders to the Hispannic Crowns.

If curious, you can read Lord Montcada's introduction into the story here: what-if-catalonia.blogspot.com/2011/07/new-supreme-commander.html

Frankszonia Update

2011-06-30T16:04:00.000-07:00

Phil Malthus has tracked down the "missing" Arthur of Frankszonia and emailed me the following updated information:

"Well, some good news – I tracked down Arthur and he is alive – he broke his leg twice (!) in January, and got shoved into a nursing home for 3 months.

He’s out now, and very slowly recuperating, but his computer & toys & paints are all buried under an accumulation that has built up in the interim.

I’m not sure when he hopes to have it excavated and available for access again."

So at least we now know that he's still with us. Let us hope that he will soon be able to get to his computer and rejoin us.

-- Jeff

What the hell for...!?

2011-06-29T11:58:00.000-07:00

What the hell would any Army need such a bizarre device for?

A convenient explanation and pictures, here: what-if-catalonia.blogspot.com/2011/06/such-bizarre-device.html

Neighbors

2011-06-27T05:39:00.000-07:00

The Duchy of Indur is looking to make contact with her neighbors both friend and foe that live in the Huntsville AL area, please feel free to send an emissary to Krajak Palace.

Has Anybody Heard From Frankzonia?

2011-06-16T22:01:00.000-07:00

While I blush at the thought that it's been two months since my last posting, I noticed, with some concern today, that it's been five months since Arthur updated his "Frankzonia" blog. Last I heard, he was having some serious health issues. I find the continued silence ominous. Has anybody heard anything?

Carniola Results

2011-06-08T22:23:00.001-07:00

The proxy skirmish battle of Carniola results have been posted as an AAR on MurdocK's MaruaderS.

Learn there whether it was the Lady Elisenda or Miss Fiona that got caught in the close quarter battle seen here!

Carniola Proxy Battle

2011-06-04T19:30:00.000-07:00

Battle season is upon us and I have jumped in to run a little skirmish action at Carniola.

The scenario can be seen here.

Expect the After Action Report first on Murdock'S MarauderS.

Seen here is the core of the Catalan Retinue, with the Marquis of Rubi, the Count of Erill, Lady Elisenda and her traveling companion Miss McGregor.

Reich Duchy of Beerstein nears 15,000 hits

2011-05-31T15:08:00.000-07:00

Reich Duke Wilhelm is gratified that his realm has been visited nearly 15,000 times. He ponders, just who will be the 15,000th guest. Best regards to all!

Battle of Sawmill Village

2011-05-28T17:57:00.000-07:00

The first part of the Battle of Sawmill Village (Kampf der Saegerwerkdorf) has been posted to the Jackson Gamers blog. Please stop by for a visit.

Photo by Ed S.

Electoral (background) and Imperial (foreground) troops fight around the saegerwerk (sawmill).

EDIT: The second part of the battle report has now been posted -- link to Part 2.

With the Electorische Armee Thueringen in control of the Saegerwerktal (Sawmill Valley), they now have a good jumping off point for an offensive later this summer against the Reichsarmeeabteilung Obere-Sachsen, hopefully as part of a wide-spread offensive by the Electoral forces against the Imperial and Gallian forces.

Proxy skirmish available soon

2011-05-28T03:33:00.000-07:00

Thanks to the advice and collaboration of Jiminho of Syldavia, I'm about to finish up a skirmish scenario (more properly, a quite 'pulp' one) involving several of our respective Imagi-Nations' characters. This will be available for anyone willing to fight and enjoy it -with the sole condition of a complete adventure review!

The plot is something like this: By mid 1713, an entourage of Catalan/Galatan dignataries are travelling toward Vienna, where they have been summoned to by His Imperial Majesty Charles VI (III to them as King of Aragon). Among them, the beautiful Lady Elisenda Countess of Prades. After some weeks spent along north Italian roads, they've finally arrived in Imperial lands -we've chosen a layout inspired on Bled area, in contemporary Slovenia, but as a matter of fact the location would better correspond to some village closer to the Venetian-Austrian border.

During their trip, a group of riders with a suspicious air has been sometimes spotted by our characters, so that they feared for a while to be under pursuit by Philip d'Anjou's agents or mercenaries... but now, with the border customs at sight, the Catalan/Galatan dignataries have started feeling safe, because they are finally in their Lord dominions... but perhaps it was too soon for them to relax! Coincidentally, another diplomatic entourage is about to converge with our dignataries -completely unaware from each other, of course: Herr General Ritter Kotrimanic and his Syldavian hussars retinue are on their way to Vienna too.

Scenario should be umpired, for neither side knows the whole; and we belive it might be run either with 2 or 3 players. It might require up to 10-12 dragoons, a similar number of hussars, about 3 dozens of "bad guys", a couple of stage coaches, a cart and the following characters: 2 ladies, 2-3 diplomats, 1 general/hero, 1 "bad guys" leader, 1 "bad guys" hero and a handful of servants, peasants and so.

It is not completely finished yet, because Jim and I are still discussing some minor details -but it will at a very short term; so that anyone willing to give it a try can prepare his tabletop room and order the necessary beer cans to his local store right now!

Hot news: The scenario is already complete and available for download, from this just posted introductory scene: Under fire!

Probs re commenting...

2011-05-25T22:21:00.000-07:00

Morning all! I am finding it impossible to leave comments at these blogs- been going on for a couple of days...
Has anyone one else had probs?I keep geting directed back to Blogger check in when I try to post and then my post dis appears when I've logged in -a arrrrrrgh!

http://syldavianchronicle.blogspot.com/
http://funnylittlewars-gardencampaigns.blogspot.com/

thanks Alan

Royal Wedding in the Reich Duchy of Beerstein

2011-05-22T15:18:00.000-07:00

The bride, Lady Louise von Pilsner, arrives at St Pauli Church for her wedding to Prince Wilhelm II von Beerstein. This painting of the event was provided by our good friend, Alan Tidmarsh of Dorset:UK, affectionately known as Tidders. Well done sir!

Rumours...

2011-05-20T22:56:00.000-07:00

Rumours are currently sweeping the Disputed Valley that the aged Duke Benedict ( long exiled in the East and confined in a tower by his own choice) has finally died. If this correct the small but often over looked Electoral College will be convened in Wargstadt. Upon verification the rusty cogs of the process will set in motion and the good and the great will gather...

Battle of Volgen, Unkerlant

2011-05-17T07:32:00.001-07:00

"I, Dolpheus Thewd, do hereby take pen in hand, to give a right and true account of the battle of Volgen, Unkerlant. Open war has been upon this tiny kingdom for more than a year after the death of their beloved monarch Karl Franz III. Borogravia has gained the upper hand in this conflict and has, over the winter, through shrewd negotiation and calculated threats amassed a large army from its conquered lands.

After learning of Unkerlant through my contacts at the Geographical Society, I travelled to Greater Germania to find this illusive and barely known kingdom. I was able to "tag along" as they say, with expedition from Cavendaria, sent as allies to Zloebnia, one of Unkerlant many fractious provinces.

Cavendarian troops cross the Blut

A harrowing crossing through the mountains, and terrifying crossing of the river Blut we entered Zlobenia. My Cavendarian compatriots were surprised to find Zlobenia's Duke Sigmund was already on the road with his famed Ducal Horse Grenadiers, sprinting to a battle in the east. Though exhausted, we quickly followed.

To read a full account of the battle, visit the Baron's Blog.

Help!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2011-05-13T09:35:00.000-07:00

My last Tradgardland post has vanished have any of you had similar problems?
thanks
Alan

A Name Generator

2011-05-09T23:59:00.000-07:00

Gentlemen,

On my Colonel Hud's Colonial Blog, I have added a "Name Generator" for 19th century British soldiers.

It would be very nice if someone with a reasonable familiarity with the German, French and any other appropriate languages could do something similar for the 18th century . . . and share the results with us.

-- Jeff

Battes Of Colburg, East Prussia

2011-05-07T21:13:00.000-07:00

For the story of both battles, go to The Campaigns In Germania Blog, if you please. Here: http://campaignsingermania.blogspot.com/2011/05/two-battles-for-colburg.html
----------
Respectfully,
Bill

A thought...

2011-05-07T00:03:00.000-07:00

Having been enjoying Monty Don's excellent series on BBC 1 of late ( last episode last night but still available on I player) I feel there is another way forward for us at EvE to interact apart from on the field of Mars...
Perhaps we could show the power and prestige of our imaginations by outdoing each other by our incredibly baroque and lavish garden design. Not to mention masques,mazes and other divertisments upon the statue encrusted terracing.Any one up for the challenge out there?

2011-05-06T16:06:00.001-07:00

for the chap sitting next to me in the dressing room who wrote a play called Custer's Last Stand

(OT) "Stylish Blogger Award"

2011-05-01T02:43:00.000-07:00

My Fellow Bloggers,

Our "Emperor vs Elector" group blog has been nominated for a "Stylish Blogger Award" by Golconda Rising (and perhaps others).

However, since we have 90 authors I do not think that we can as a "group blog" follow the "rules" of this award . . . I mean Imaging each of us listing seven "unknown" facts about ourselves . . . that would be 630 facts . . .

Besides I know that quite a few of us have already received an award for our individual blogs . . . still, it is nice to be recognized, isn't it?

Any of you co-authors would like to share some "unknown facts" about yourselves may feel free to do so in the "Comments" section of this post.

But a hearty "Congratulations!" to all of us.

-- Jeff, EvE's Inhaber

Battle of Boscheberg

2011-04-22T06:16:00.000-07:00

Franistover's Irish Guards

As every good Unkerlanter knows, the roads in Franistover are terrible. So it was no surprise when good Prince Adalbert raised taxes to help pay for said roads. It was, however, a surprise to the citizens of Boscheberg when their beloved Schlossenslopp beer got the brunt of the taxation. The town mayor refused to pay, and in an act of near insanity appealed to Franistover's age old rival, Zlobenia for help. A fight was on.

Both forces arrived in late morning (probably because of the state of the aforementioned roads). The Zlobenian center was taking time deploy. Meanwhile, on the Zlob flanks, the cavalry took advantage of open terrain to fly foward. Zlobenia being hilly country, rarely affords a horseman such luxury as open terrain.

On the other side, Franistover forces were also taking their time. Indeed, it was early afternoon before ineffectual cannonade was exchanged. The citizens of Boscheberg lined the walls to watch.

As the Zlobenian cavalry on the right, thundered across the valley, led by the vaunted Ducal Horse Grenadiers in their shining gold breastplates, they spotted the Franistoveran horse still deploying. Now was the chance! But, the Zlobs miscalcualted, and the Franies counter-charged. The Ducal Horse were scattered

and beaten.

The Ducal Horse Grenadiers charge to their doom.

In the center, the Zlobenian cannon was taking a toll on the Franistoveran infantry, but the Guard were still lagging. The Scots Guard has stopped for lunch, it seems.

With the afternoon wearing on, the Zlobenian cavalry on the far left finally came to grips with the Franistoveran horse. They met the same fate as their broters on the opposite end of the field.

The people of Boscheberg, mesmerized by the battle at their doorstep, had forgotten to lock their gates. The Franistoveran grenaiders occupied the streets and houses and seized the brewery. They lined the walls troops and began reigning fire down on the approaching Zlob infantry.

Night, mercifully fell, and the Zlobenians quickly fell back across the border.

Prince Adalbert enjyoed a lovely dinner in the town square, accompanied by a tall mug of Schlossenslopp and the hanging body of the mayor.

We used Might and Reason again, as it is a flawless, fun system that let us play a fairly large game in a short time. As all my miniatures are not done, a careful observer will notice the use of foamcore stand in:

It is everything I can do, not to do switch from 10mm ( doable scale for this campaign) to 28mm which is soooo pretty.

Once everybody gets a firm grip on the rules, we will continue our Unkerlant campaign started a while back. Stay tuned.

awi for sale

2011-04-16T18:47:00.000-07:00

Hello Guys

I have these on fleabay, there is no room left in my cell so somethings got to go for the Hesse Cassoulet stuff. I have two more units which aren't ready for sale (repairs) if anyone is interested.

the Brit light infantry

the Yank infantry

thanks for looking

regards
PP/IG

RSM Austrian Units For Sale

2011-04-16T11:06:00.001-07:00

Figures have all been sold.

Der Alte Fritz is seeking a new inhaber(s) for four RSM Austrian cavalry regiments (20 figures each) and two Austrian infantry regiments (30 figures each).

http://altefritz.blogspot.com/2011/04/rsm-austrian-units-for-sale.html

click on the link and inspect the troops for yourself. Interested buyers can contact me through the e-mail address listed on my blog.

cheerio

Fritz

Troops of the Duchy of Pappenheim

2011-04-15T15:45:00.000-07:00

Infantry and artilley of the Duchy are now ready for the field.All Eureka Saxons
See them at this place!!!!

Regiment Beaujolais Joins Reichsarmee

2011-04-15T11:31:00.000-07:00

The Gallian Regiment Beaujolais has been accepted into service with the Reichsarmeeabteilung Obere-Sachsen in a review by Feldzeugmeister Freiherr von Alderheim, the army commander. You can see a complete report at ColCampbell's Barracks.

Horrible Murder

2011-04-04T02:20:00.000-07:00

From the front page of the Pappenheim Zeitung.

Horrible Murder

Recent news from Traunsburg, the capital of Pommaine, is that a member of the Swartzgarde has been foully murdered by burglars attempting to rob Duke Otto's palace. Very little detail is available about the alleged crime, but sources in the Gendarmerie say they are looking for a youth between 4ft 6 and 5ft 6 tall.

The city of Traunsburg is also under a strict curfew between the hours of 10pm and 6am. Various ambassadors have objected to this imposition, which will impede the social life of the city.

Ducal sources have denied that the robbery and curfew have anything to do with Duke Otto's illness and claim he is responding well to treatment.

more

King Philip V of Spain abdicates

2011-04-01T10:49:00.000-07:00

Real Hot News!

Madrid, 1^st April 1714 - Please read more at this thrilling piece of news!!.

Oh, where are the snows of years gone by?

2011-03-28T07:54:00.000-07:00

Mais ou sont les neiges d'antan ? ("Ballade des Dames du Temps Jadis": 'Ballad of the Ladies of Times Past').

Where is Fiona MacGillicuddy, who was spying the Jacobites for the 'Hanoverian' King of Britannia?

Where are Ursula von Hetzenberg and her friend 'Schwester Bum' Mary Amadeus?

Where is Alisonia now? Last time we heard of her, she had embarked a Gallian ship -for what destination again?

Where is the Duchess of Saschen-Vindow? Still alive and well in the Stagonian Palace? In such 'House of Madness' her life is hanging by a thread: maybe she would ask to be sent abroad as a 'charming legate' to better the Stagonian repute; for sure the Queen Mother would support such initiative, being jealous of her influence ('control' would be inappropriate: Ludwig is totally uncontrollable).
The Duchess could do worse than come to Monte-Cristo: we value independent-minded, strong-willed women, and -being ourselves often deemed 'freaks'- we welcome without prejudice foreigners preceded by a bad repute. All our visitors enjoy their sojourn and leave with fond memories; not a few of them are changed, receive a kind of enlightenment / illumination:
- a Cardinal from very far away (portraits before he left Pangaea and when he came back there) on his return relinquished all his secular / temporal dignities and turned his Electoral Archbishopric into a (People's) Republic. And raised an 'Amazon' bodyguard...
- another devout Cardinal is adamantly refusing to leave our Women's Jail,
- a (reputedly) vampire Lady (anonymity respected) discovered here and *enjoyed* sunbathing (admittedly, if a vampire indeed she already was a 'day walker', but nonetheless...).
In the two last cases (some whisper 'In all three cases') part of the blame can be put on our (in)famous zerokini.
Thus, we gladly renew our previous invitation (Jan.06."09 comment) to the Duchess.

Where are these Ladies, how are they faring? Will they remain nameless here for evermore?

New Ambassadors from Syldavia

2011-03-27T13:02:00.000-07:00

An Announcement of the Office of the Chancellor, in the Service of

His Royal Majesty, King Stépan II of Syldavia

Stépan II, King of Syldavia, is pleased to announce the appointment of the following noble and meritous Gentlemen to the office of Ambassador and their investment as Knights of the Order of St. Vladimir:

Count Ignatio Hartthröb, who shall present his diplomatic credentials to the Duke of Tradgardland,

Baron Mihailo Milutin, who shall present his diplomatic credentials to the General Council of Tipplebruder,

Ret. Colonel Baron Janos Kerevice, who shall present his diplomatic credentials to the Reichfurst of Bembach-Schönau,

Ret. General Baron Josef Hrzik, who shall present his diplomatic credentials to the Basileios of New Byzantion,

Ret. General Ritter Petr Kotrimanic, who shall present his diplomatic credentials to the Viceroy of Catalonia,

Ritter Paul-Mihailo Pompphrish, who shall present his diplomatic credentials to the Ezerherzog of Hesse-Cassoulet,

and

Ret. Col. Ritter Ijani Bartolemi, who shall present his diplomatic credentials to the King of St. Maurice.

Upon formal appointment, these officials will depart forthwith to establish their embassies, where they will serve, at the King's pleasure and with the King’s confidence, as the King's spokesmen and witnesses abroad, in the service of the Syldavian homeland.

Decreed, in the name of King Stépan II

To read the appointment decree in detail and to see the badge of the Order of the Black Pelican, granted to the potentates mentioned above, click here

A New Template

2011-03-27T11:38:00.000-07:00

After learning that most images in the Virtual Museum of War of the Spanish Succession Catalan language website are subject to a Creative Commons license, I decided to use some of these images to create the uniform templates I needed for my WSS times Infantry of the Line. Such templates are following the general pattern set at the excellent nba-sywtemplates.blogspot.com web resource, so that I've been able to keep a style consistent to those other templates used for other toop types -which had been straightly provided by David Linienblatt. Thanks to either his own templates or those produced by mixing features from both sources, I've been able to produce a complete templates collection covering all of my Army...

...except for one single troop type: Mountain Fusiliers.

David had already offered himself for designing a generic WSS Mountain Fusilier template, but he must alternate such kind of selfless work for the EvE community with other kind of commissions. As I was anxious to produce some overall view on that particular troop type -which were historically key in the extraordinarily successful Catalan/Galatan resistance face to the Two Crowns combined armies, albeit so underesteemed by foreign Military Historians- but I would deeply dislike pressing David to finish a job he selflessly had volunteered to, I've finally decided to produce a WSS times Mountain Fusiliers temporary template on the basis of an image of the above mentioned Virtual Museum. This way I can comfortably keep my own designing process without annoying anyone and, as soon as we have properly designed templates available, I'll be replacing the temporary ones by those.

If curious, please check the Galatan Confederation WSS Army website. You'll notice there that only 4 of the 11 active Mountain Fusiliers Regiments have been assigned a template so far, so that uniforms or standards suggestions for the rest are warmly welcome. The first 7 regiments are fully historic, while MFR 8 is actually an overrated independent company, and MFR 9 to 11 are completely fictional units.

Army Sizes

2011-03-25T09:18:00.000-07:00

I became interested in the relationship between army size and population and did a quick survey - sadly I found it quite hard to get 18th century data on the Web, but Napoleonic data was ready to hand, so here is a comparison between the major states and some small states I looked at for comparison.

As you can see, major states were running at about 1 - 1.5% pre the Wars. Austria and Russia both increased army sizes in the region of c 1/2 - 2/3rds at peak. France had to find a lot of men to fight all the others, so is running at 2-3x the other big players. Britain is a bit misleading owing to the size of its Navy (not considered), and Prussia has a small population even in Napoleonic times. I recall reading once that if the population in arms of a country goes above c 5% it really suffers economically (if you consider that all the soldiers are fit and active males, who are about 1/6th of the population, then 5% of a population is pretty much 1/3rd of all active males in a country) so France and Prussia after the wars must have been pretty unpleasant.

I also did some analysis of smaller states, as you can see they - on average - at their height are less militarised than the major powers. I counted the men in the units and multiplied by 1.5 for the "tail". Westphalia is possibly too high, I assumed 3 battalions per regiment for all their regiments but it may not have been uniform, and one cavalry regiment was paid for by Wurttemburg. Also, both of these states were ruled by Bonaparte family members so may have bean "leaned on" more than the others to provide men and material more in keeping with French style ratios.

As to why the small nations have a smaller % in arms, I don't know.

To estimate sizes in the18th century, I assume they are similar to pre-Napoleonic mass army times, then if we assume "Height Of" numbers for the smaller states had about the same increase as for Russia and Austria in the period, then a "Normal Situation " is c .75 - 1.5%, which the bits of 1801 data I have seems to agree with.

(Clarification from the comments below - I think the "peacetime" army is about 1% safely, but a fully mobilised manpower of 2% (trainees, reservists etc) is probably an achievable level that is "safe" economically without putting a country on a war footing.

So as a rule of thumb, your Imagi-Nation should be running at about 1% of population for the army, unless you are totally militarised like a tinpot Prussia. Incidentally, the ratio of Horse to Foot of the small countries I looked at is about 0.3 : 1 Horse:Foot, so about a quarter are cavalry.

For what its worth European Turkey is c 8m souls at this time, so to field a peacetime army of about 20,000 (what I had initially designed x 1.5, as above) my Imagi-Nation (New Byzantium) needs to appropriate about 2m people - or 1/4 of it. That seems unrealistic, 1/10th was more what I was thinking, so clearly I need a lot of mercenaries (check) and a major trading city seaport to afford them!

The Hoche-Affeburg Grand Order of the Wombat ,with Acacia Clasp

2011-03-23T18:24:00.001-07:00

Enquire within for conditions of use..

Hesse Cassoulet News

2011-03-20T07:19:00.000-07:00

There is movement on the recruitment front enquiries have been sent out to Eurekasberg and Minden. Trouble with neighbours has ended, Wholly Roman Empire nosing about and artillery sciences to be advanced. To learn more.....

Distinguished visitor arrives in the Reich Duchy of Beerstein

2011-03-19T13:44:00.000-07:00

Who is the distinguished guest who just arrived in the Beerstein capitol of Kronenberg?

Galatan IR 9 Daughters of Minerva

2011-03-18T16:21:00.000-07:00

Lady Elisenda Folc de Cardona's own female battalion has been recently spotted while performing their daily training routine. They are anxiously waiting for an opportunity for demonstrating to the rest of Galatan Nation their fighting will and determination. In the meanwhile, first line commanders are hurrying to take profit from the apparent disagreements recently detected between Hispannia and Gallia.

Pictures of this 15mm regiment have been posted at my painting blog. Also, the corresponding templates have been posted at my Imagi-Nation's 1713 Army webpage.

The Erzherzog Sends A Directive

2011-03-15T19:55:00.000-07:00

The Paintenpigen has been approached by Pinz Xaver Hansuppen von Hessiansacken (Erzherzog Rudolf's older brother) to consider outfitting the new reform army, and to give indication to the best cut of uniform and accoutrement.

The nothern districts are thinking Prushain

Newly arrived recruits from Minden

New troops and old are soon to arrive from Minden, Eurekasburg, Foundarieville and Holgerholm and I have Little enough time to choose the colour of the clothe let alone the cut. Prinz Xaver has bought rough outlines of the Erzherzogs preferrences, still it will be a long process.

Chardonnay like the Gallic or Fronsay Cut

I wonder at the sudden haste after so many years of peaceful neglect? It can be said our troops are very well trained, as can be confirmed by any enemy unfortunate to rub against our troops in foreign service, but numbers have always been minimal and the style aging in appearance, as is the equipment.

Shirazgau would prefer a red

I hear talk of Emperors and Electors, Reich Duchies and Kingdoms, campaigns and wars. Hesse-Cassoulet has always managed to avoid outright war, something must be brewing. The merchants trains from Persia, Turkostan and Venuce are larger better escorted and less frequent, something "must" be brewing to the south.

What News?

2011-03-14T07:28:00.000-07:00

Today a rider bearing dispatches bought news from Beerstein, amongst other, indicating the College of Honors is to invest Erzherzog Rudolf Dascher Hansuppen II von Hessiansacken hausen into the Ancient and Honorable Order of the Tankard! Our Benevolent Landgraf overcome with emotion could not utter reply at first.

Some time having elapsed and emotion subsided the Erzherzog after some discussion with his advisers has decided to send the celebrated Hessiansacken artist in residence, Francios Metrelonge to Reich Duke Wilhelm von Beerstein for portraiture at the Erzherzogs expense, as gracious acknowledgement on the honour bestowed.

Other news has kept ze Landgrafs closest confidants and Schlosse messengers busy but as yet no word as too what is occupying their minds.

Artillery Exercise at the HMKoNW

2011-03-11T23:59:00.001-08:00

You are all invited to observe the Artillery of King Phillip go throught heir paces,...

Visit the Artillery Training Grounds here

Gunners and Staff Cadets ready for Action

2011-03-10T03:29:00.000-08:00

You are all invited to view The HMKoNW Gunners of BREE's BATTERY and the Honourable Staff Cadets of Adfaburg Duntroon Military Academy

Some advice needed

2011-03-08T16:52:00.000-08:00

The General Deputation of the Principality of Galatea has just been acknowledged that a Brittanian fraternity of distinguished men has invested a considerable sum in raising a number of Infantry regiments in the Lower Countries, for Galatan service as Foreign Regiments. Three of such units have already been assigned uniforms and Colours, and payroll is nearly completed for two of them. However, advice is still needed to assign higher rank officers for these new units, as well as to give a proper name to one, which is still unnamed so far. Last but not least, advice is also needed to determine if the invested amount would be enough for further raisings -and to evaluate if there is left manpower enough in the Lower Countries, after their recent disbandment of Brittanian units in their own service.

If curious, please read more at this posting.

Imagining your Enemies

2011-03-08T05:55:00.000-08:00

I am in the process of imagining mine own honourable opponents, the following is from a blog post I just wrote on some thoughts, be interesting to get the hivemind's. How do you all do it -Imaginary or Real, and if Imagined, how so - from your own (hopefully) fertile imagination, from others' - Tintin's Syldavia and Borduria, Hope's Ruritania, Christie's Herzoslovakia - or (and this seems most attractive) from some of the other members of the August community of Imagi-Nation creators. All have advantages and disadvantages:

- Real nations have the advantage of being known, in all sorts of ways, and any opposing force so built can play other opponents without them asking embarassing questions about why you have American Civil War Zouaves painted up like that

- One's own imagination can furnish more opponents than one can shake a stick at, but the worry is that they are all a bit same-ey.

- Literary Imagi-nations are a good bet, as you can glean something of them from the books/films/comics/whatever, but you risk the "how come your Bordurian Mountain Regiment look like Greek Evzones, when everyone knows they should look more like American Civil War zouaves" problem* :-)

Besides, sources of Bordurian history in 1756 are sadly sparse.

- Other people's Imagi-Nations are very tempting, as there is a backstory and (in theory) two heads are better than one in creating campaigns etc, even though the endgame is to lop one head off. (Owing to poor translation, New Byzantium takes Kipling's advice rather literally, and have worked out the best way to cut to the chase is to ensure that all around you do actually lose their heads...). The problem with playing with Other People is thay can be so ill mannered as to win the battles, so this option shall have to be watched with great care.

Be curious to get people's opinions. Also, we are in the south to mid-Balkans, so if anybody is close by on our borders, we need to know.....

* That I have just created :-)

New Byzantium Looking for Neighbors

2011-03-08T05:48:00.000-08:00

I just read the latest post from New Byzantium -- and he is looking to find out what Imagi-Nations are somewhat near to his borders. If you are, go his blog and let him know:

http://novobyzantium.blogspot.com/

-- Jeff

rats, dinged again

2011-03-04T12:17:00.001-08:00

At the end of January, I broke my leg ... and then fell again early in February.
The Doctor has stuck me in this nursing home until the leg heals ... may be a few weeks before I ressurect!
Interrupted a lovely game ... actually three games in one scenario (the assasination attempts at the hunting lodge). I don't know if the Apostate survives or not myself (groan).
This does mean I'm missing the SYW convention in South Bend for sure (*@#%!), alas.
Got to get off before the nurse comes back to her computer!
:)

Terrain on offer

2011-03-02T12:53:00.000-08:00

I'm selling off some of my 28mm-scale terrain (houses & roads), for anyone wanting to add to their supply, details available on my website.

Grafin Keira von Ritterfeld ,

2011-02-23T22:04:00.000-08:00

and her escort and parasol bearer, the dashing Leutnant Orlando von Blume of the Witzboldfeld Chasseurs

Emperor Charles VI 15mm Galatan Guard

2011-02-22T14:14:00.000-08:00

I've posted at my painting blog some photos of my just finished 15mm Royal Galatan Guards. I've also taken advantage to accordingly update my Imagi-Nation's WSS Army page with some of them.

The painting blog itself is written in Catalan language, although you can use the attached Google translate gadget to try for a not always accurate, but ever funny translation!

Beimbach-Schönau celebrates!

2011-02-18T15:06:00.000-08:00

I was please to see that on Wednesday night my blog surpassed 10K hits. Not too shabby for an enterprise only 4 months old!

I would like to thank all my readers for their support and can assure you there is much more to come.

The world of ImagNations has proven to be inspiring and enjoyable and I do not see this enthusiasm lessening!

Thank you all for a lively community.

A query...

2011-02-18T14:16:00.000-08:00

Some while ago someone posted on their blogspot (one affiliated to EvE) a picture of a model of a young(ish) lass taking a bath. Unfortunately, I have forgotten upon which blogspot it was shown, and a lengthy trawl through recent traffic hasn't unearthed the thing.

Can someone tell me who posted it? I would like that person's permission to use it for an 'Age of Unreason' strip I have in mind.

Cheers,
Ion

Some 15mm Galatan characters

2011-02-17T15:35:00.000-08:00

I've just posted at my painting blog a couple of pictures on my recently first finished 15mm individual characters. To be honest, I'm far from being sure what are these miniatures going to be useful for -but I loved painting them, so that here they are! The female figures at each side are from the Peter Pig's Caribbean Pirates range, originally intended to depict female pirates. I've customized both a little bit by addition of a tricorne hat, also from Peter Pig. The one at the left has been painted as if belonging to Lady Elisenda Folc de Cardona's own regiment -while the status of the other one keeps to be quite ambiguous, in spite of the added headgear...

The three miniatures in the middle are from Blue Moon, and might represent almost any outstanding character of my Imagi-Nation -or any of their friends & foes... Maybe a King & Emperor in his youth along with His recently married wife -or a tight-close Galatan friend perhaps? As for the peasant girl, who knows?

Sorry that, unlike my Imagi-Nation's own site, the painting blog itself is not in English!

The Duchy of Hoche-Affeburg Birthday Honours

2011-02-17T06:26:00.000-08:00

A Special Parade Birthday Colour for the Foot Guards..a present to the Duke's Foot Guards upon His Birthday today from (the now newly enobled) Graf David von Linienblatt .
19 guns fired in Salute