tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-42459054566241998362024-02-22T02:24:30.125+11:00Victus VenatusVictorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16503479573321677384noreply@blogger.comBlogger60125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4245905456624199836.post-27793393151903041932022-04-01T00:30:00.001+11:002022-04-01T00:30:00.139+11:00COTGB Scenarios: Rearguard Action<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><i>Another distant signal have been received from Mark Stevens in Pattaya, and has been reposted here </i><i>for posterity....</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIWmWTzv5LZPNm_NA7auqQkAGdNKN9kOKaBMHaLIzm0vYYqjqaCcTX4V9DrkhKli4Tw72eRDSljPdJoQib9Uoy--CsHnlvJjWnUjpWNR6QA9CLLMfRJ7AuREkMVtmYf9s-KujxcPwzrzCraW3QnHYvX5bvpGQu0y0739vLjG64qk0y5xIwE86ghdpoQw/s640/cover.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="438" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIWmWTzv5LZPNm_NA7auqQkAGdNKN9kOKaBMHaLIzm0vYYqjqaCcTX4V9DrkhKli4Tw72eRDSljPdJoQib9Uoy--CsHnlvJjWnUjpWNR6QA9CLLMfRJ7AuREkMVtmYf9s-KujxcPwzrzCraW3QnHYvX5bvpGQu0y0739vLjG64qk0y5xIwE86ghdpoQw/s320/cover.jpg" width="219" /></a></div><br />This scenario represents the aftermath of a battle, which the Defenders have lost. Their rearguard is trying to delay the pursuit for as long as possible so the leadership can escape. The two sides are :<br /></div></div></div><p></p><p></p><b><span style="color: #2b00fe;">The Forces</span></b><p></p><p><u>Desert Raiders, 16 slots (living count 7):<br /></u><span style="color: #cc0000;">π</span>2 x Proud Warrior squads (4) <br /><span style="color: #cc0000;">π</span>1 x Trapper squad (2) <br /><span style="color: #cc0000;">π</span>1 x Starport Thugs squad (Mercenaries) (3)<br /><span style="color: #cc0000;">π</span>1 x Marksmen character (armed with jezzail) (2)<br /><span style="color: #cc0000;">π</span>1 x Maverick character (Stilgar)* (3)<br /><span style="color: #cc0000;">π</span>1 x Muscle sidekick character (bodyguard) (2)</p><p><u>Trading Conglomerate, 16 slots (living count 7):<br /></u><span style="color: #cc0000;">π</span> 4 x Cadet squads (warbots) (8)<br /><span style="color: #cc0000;">π</span> 1 x Primordial beast character (Col. Kranki)* (4)<br /><span style="color: #cc0000;">π</span> 1 x Burden character (Kranki's special friend) (1)<br /><span style="color: #cc0000;">π</span> 1 x Sentry gun character (3)</p><p><i>* Leaders</i></p><p>ππππππππππππππππππππππππππππππ</p><p>After forces are chosen, terrain placed, and opposite sides selected, the sides dice roll to see who will be attacker & defender. The Desert Raiders will be the defenders. They choose one card from their bid deck (at random) and must remove slots from their line up equivalent to the card bid value. In a two player game this need not be immediately revealed to the Attacker, but in a solo game itβs easier to assume spies or traitors have conveyed the information to Attacker HQ before the game starts.</p><p>The card the Desert Raiders drew was a 5. The slots removed are 1 Starport Thugs squad and 1 Muscle sidekick character. The Living count accordingly is reduced to 5.</p><p>The Attackers (Colonel Kranki & the Trading Conglomerate) will be the NPC).</p><p>Hereβs the tabletop with starting positions, which are handled per a normal CotGB game. The Desert Raiders have their Proud Warrior squads in the centre-left forest & behind the largest hill. The Trappers have been given the ambush capability so are not deployed yet. The Marksman is behind the hill at upper left. The leader (Stilgar) is with the Proud Warriors at centre left.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiIil3Wu3wsmIgyiqytOMaZwa8AydHqSxUP-mxC5mAkvUZYyntsZrbvycg6RZ8lkkLoXvXyE_Y7_c0fszppsTWbdgUQtrPLb2esm7E3jV0Y8SbKm8Tn-gnngTulGd6Go077BSE_U5SAf5_hVvA1xwWsWi7dtUYT86BzlhwoSBwVaegQm2gfnN1kXi34A/s1500/a.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1125" data-original-width="1500" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiIil3Wu3wsmIgyiqytOMaZwa8AydHqSxUP-mxC5mAkvUZYyntsZrbvycg6RZ8lkkLoXvXyE_Y7_c0fszppsTWbdgUQtrPLb2esm7E3jV0Y8SbKm8Tn-gnngTulGd6Go077BSE_U5SAf5_hVvA1xwWsWi7dtUYT86BzlhwoSBwVaegQm2gfnN1kXi34A/w400-h300/a.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div><div>Kranki, the Burden, & 2 Cadet squads are in the centre between the hills, with the other Cadets at centre top. The sentry gun is on top of the biggest hill.</div><div><br /></div><div>The hills, and swamp are assumed to be covered with rocks, ditches, etc that provide cover.</div></div><div><br /></div><div>ππππππππππππππππππππππππππππππ</div><div><br /></div><div><div><b><span style="color: #2b00fe;">Turn 1: Trading Conglomerate bid 1; Desert Raiders bid 2</span></b></div><div>Kranki advanced 1 Cadet squad from the pair on his left, onto the small hill, towards the enemy Marksman. Stilgar responded by inserting his Trapper squad (revealing the ambush) onto the hill, between the Cadets and the Marksman.</div><div><br /></div><div><span style="color: #2b00fe;"><b>Turn 2: </b><b style="color: black;"><span style="color: #2b00fe;">Trading Conglomerate</span></b><b> bid 6; </b><b style="color: black;"><span style="color: #2b00fe;">Desert Raiders</span></b><b> bid 4</b></span></div><div>Stilgar took shots at one of the Cadet units with the Marksman and the Proud Warrior squad in the big forest. He passed on the rest of his activation points. Both units missed but in return fire the Cadets hit one of the Proud Warriors. Kranki used his non-initiative points to move 2 cadet squads towards the Proud Warriors in the big forest.</div><div><br /></div><div><b><span style="color: #2b00fe;">Turn 3: </span></b><b><span style="color: #2b00fe;">Trading Conglomerate</span></b><b><span style="color: #2b00fe;"> bid 6; </span></b><b><span style="color: #2b00fe;">Desert Raiders</span></b><b><span style="color: #2b00fe;"> bid 6</span></b></div><div>A drawn bid. Both sides get two action points usable for shooting only. Trading Conglomerate goes first. Kranki shot at the Proud Warriors in the forest with both Cadet units that had closed in on them. They scored only a combined 1 hit though. The Proud Warriors, responding with Return Fire, scored 2 hits, 1 on each Cadet squad. Then it was the Proud Warriors turn to shoot, using the depleted squad in the first + the other squad on the edge of the big hill. One hit. So at the end of this firefight Turn the Proud Warriors squad has lost 2 figures, 1 Cadet squad has also lost 2, the other has lost 1. </div><div><br /></div><div>Hereβs the end of Turn 3 position. On the big hill on the left a Proud Warriors squad is facing off the sentry gun. Behind the hill, a Cadet squad & Kranki wait. In the centre, the firefight between the Proud Warriors in the forest & 2 Cadet squads moving in has left 2 Proud Warriors & 3 Cadets down. On the right, more Cadets face a Trapper squad, plus the Marksman.</div></div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZVCwDe9eh5_ofPYzOgcJeLmgpEjl--QVQHakTSu5JfSWyi6DvoZZJSgCrK2SNFA-cFW6I_5QpBD_Us93tpb_klVUrwDuucQlmVJk_XYkIs4k8XzX7fFq5WurJYTLNsoQQl_o83xCs9aStvcBkt6NQ5E0zx8W3FiD4qLm_2M4DRD0NNseCAszKKRXUOA/s1500/b.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1125" data-original-width="1500" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZVCwDe9eh5_ofPYzOgcJeLmgpEjl--QVQHakTSu5JfSWyi6DvoZZJSgCrK2SNFA-cFW6I_5QpBD_Us93tpb_klVUrwDuucQlmVJk_XYkIs4k8XzX7fFq5WurJYTLNsoQQl_o83xCs9aStvcBkt6NQ5E0zx8W3FiD4qLm_2M4DRD0NNseCAszKKRXUOA/w400-h300/b.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div><div><b><span style="color: #2b00fe;">Turn 4: </span></b><b><span style="color: #2b00fe;">Trading Conglomerate</span></b><b><span style="color: #2b00fe;"> bid 5; </span></b><b><span style="color: #2b00fe;">Desert Raiders</span></b><b><span style="color: #2b00fe;"> bid 3</span></b></div><div>The Proud Warriors use their Initiative points to do aimed shooting. The Marksman & both Warrior squads will shoot at the Cadet squads facing the Warriors in the centre forest.</div><div><br /></div><div>The Cadets opt to stand their ground and return fire. In a highly successful firefight for the Desert Raiders, they took no losses but downed 4 Cadet figures, taking the two squads to Green and Yellow condition, respectively. Kranki used his non-initiative points to move the Cadets facing the Trappers off the hill, and his last Cadet reserves forward.</div><div><br /></div><div>Here we are again, end of Turn 4 </div></div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8usdxQU9HJszRpybjj49XisxVNwlXIt1RRu-EfaYmc9FHDLjynErBBNiiEWnZBLEVkN08k116PjbIaj1LKsOeLWLexWLrKmNrTWUVYg7mQwWsmgI2aYlLpvvNsEnCjYVF4qnHLvFD0oBrC7Zkvg1i2G6d8bx_zXbhqOrcN4tuFBzg9KtISZEcWIY-7Q/s1500/c.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="817" data-original-width="1500" height="218" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8usdxQU9HJszRpybjj49XisxVNwlXIt1RRu-EfaYmc9FHDLjynErBBNiiEWnZBLEVkN08k116PjbIaj1LKsOeLWLexWLrKmNrTWUVYg7mQwWsmgI2aYlLpvvNsEnCjYVF4qnHLvFD0oBrC7Zkvg1i2G6d8bx_zXbhqOrcN4tuFBzg9KtISZEcWIY-7Q/w400-h218/c.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div><div><b><span style="color: #2b00fe;">Turn 5: </span></b><b><span style="color: #2b00fe;">Trading Conglomerate</span></b><b><span style="color: #2b00fe;"> bid 5; </span></b><b><span style="color: #2b00fe;">Desert Raiders</span></b><b><span style="color: #2b00fe;"> bid 2</span></b></div><div>Stilgar calls in the Trappers from the hill, and the Warriors from the big hill. I wasnβt sure if the Sentry Gun would be able shoot at the Warriors as they moved, the hill crest might be in the way, A dice roll indicated that, indeed, the gun could not get a firing solution. Kranki used his non-initiative points to move the sentry gun forward, and move himself and his Burden associate up to the Cadets.</div><div><br /></div><div><span style="color: #2b00fe;"><b>Turn 6: </b><b style="color: black;"><span style="color: #2b00fe;">Trading Conglomerate</span></b><b> bid 4; </b><b style="color: black;"><span style="color: #2b00fe;">Desert Raiders</span></b><b> bid 6</b></span></div><div>Kranki orders a charge on the Proud Warriors in the big forest, by his Condition Green & Yellow squads. The Proud Warriors use opportunity fire against the incoming Yellow unit as it charges, taking it to condition Red. Kranki also moves other units into better positions. Stilgar uses his remaining non-initiative point to move his Trappers into the big forest.</div><div><br /></div><div>In the combat, the Proud Warriors fight the condition Green Cadets first, killing two of them for no loss, taking those Cadets to condition Red. They then battled the other Cadets who were already on Red. The Proud Warriors killed the last warbot standing, eliminating this squad.</div><div><br /></div><div>Hereβs the end of turn position. So far, Krankiβs attempt to bash his way through the defence has been a failure, as he uses Cadets (shooting experts) to try and dislodge Proud Warriors (fairly good at both shooting & close combat) from defensive positions. Does he have the intestinal fortitude to keep up the pressure. Or if not, what alternative tactic will he switch to ?</div></div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjD7AoothnSjZpjyh3obxA8UGwRHAkavMUqBVedHFGuHSlUUJSXplIhBodsyFavNu4x3pAZguswhppgCJ1CYpV8pWiMM31mY6GfAV6y8Hha437lNy5kuFtKjm4PWeIbqXXuCFN0cVx93nQ1O6o7tQXueTZtd6Qj0BFIKbG5MLBZ9uwbIQxKX2RtUFGwcg/s480/d.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="360" data-original-width="480" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjD7AoothnSjZpjyh3obxA8UGwRHAkavMUqBVedHFGuHSlUUJSXplIhBodsyFavNu4x3pAZguswhppgCJ1CYpV8pWiMM31mY6GfAV6y8Hha437lNy5kuFtKjm4PWeIbqXXuCFN0cVx93nQ1O6o7tQXueTZtd6Qj0BFIKbG5MLBZ9uwbIQxKX2RtUFGwcg/w400-h300/d.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div><div><b><span style="color: #2b00fe;">Turn 7: </span></b><b><span style="color: #2b00fe;">Trading Conglomerate</span></b><b><span style="color: #2b00fe;"> bid 2; </span></b><b><span style="color: #2b00fe;">Desert Raiders</span></b><b><span style="color: #2b00fe;"> bid 4</span></b></div><div>Finally, Kranki looks away from the big melee, and sees other opportunities! He uses his initiative points for the Sentry gun to shoot at the Proud Warrior squad nearest it, and to insert another Cadet unit into the melee. The Warriors return fire as the Sentry gun shoots them up , causing it to suffer 1 hit (condition Green) but the Warriors in turn are almost wiped out (condition Red). Maybe they should have tried to dodge.</div><div><br /></div><div>Stilgar uses his non-initiative points to move the Trappers into line behind the Warriors, as a new defence line in the forest, and for the Marksman to take an opportunity shot at the fresh Cadet squad as it charges into the melee, taking down 1 warbot.</div><div><br /></div><div>The ongoing melee starts with the Warriors fighting the fresh Cadet unit. No losses on either side. Against the other (condition Red) Cadets, desperation led them to cause another Warrior casualty before being wiped out.</div><div><br /></div><div>End of Turn update. The close combat in the big forest continues, with the Proud Warriors now at half strength (3 figures) and a fresh cadet unit piling in with 5 figures in hand. Stilgar the Desert Raider leader is just to the rear, and the Trapper squad is lined up behind him. To the right, the Desert Raider Marksman awaits a fresh target. To the left, the Sentry gun has taken the other Proud Warrior squad to condition Red with a single burst of fire, but itself is now on condition Green.</div></div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY8p8bcSpsQOd25JDn8LE-CZFkOFm_e2_7fPEWUD5nRywB7ky7fNXDbSoLZWyaq1UHUHjM4nKVgdonR_COUNyg7kydX6BGMQlgSkA5BSmGHSgVRgFagHubnt6DDa259ZMutBSpM0uozzmG-2LxgQjMGrq8G0iaJUGPgH2GWnKcJpvvPzNl72nPFbc3BA/s1500/e.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="925" data-original-width="1500" height="246" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY8p8bcSpsQOd25JDn8LE-CZFkOFm_e2_7fPEWUD5nRywB7ky7fNXDbSoLZWyaq1UHUHjM4nKVgdonR_COUNyg7kydX6BGMQlgSkA5BSmGHSgVRgFagHubnt6DDa259ZMutBSpM0uozzmG-2LxgQjMGrq8G0iaJUGPgH2GWnKcJpvvPzNl72nPFbc3BA/w400-h246/e.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div><div>Kranki & Burden, and the last intact Cadet squad, wait to the rear of the action.</div><div><br /></div><div>The Trading Conglomerate have failed to break through by the end of Turn 7, so cannot win a Major Victory, though a Minor Victory is still very possible.</div><div><br /></div><div>Casualties so far: Trading Conglomerate have lost 13 Cadets (2 dead, 5 living). Desert Raiders have lost 8 Proud Warriors (1 dead, 4 living).</div><div><br /></div><div><b><span style="color: #2b00fe;">Turn 8: </span></b><b><span style="color: #2b00fe;">Trading Conglomerate</span></b><b><span style="color: #2b00fe;"> bid 2; </span></b><b><span style="color: #2b00fe;">Desert Raiders</span></b><b><span style="color: #2b00fe;"> bid 1</span></b></div><div>Stilgar orders his Marksman to shoot at Kranki, who is the closest enemy not in melee and in LOS. Kranki dodges. Bugger. Kranki uses his non-initiative point to move his last intact Cadets up to where they can shoot at, or charge, the Marksman next turn. About time.</div><div><br /></div><div>The melee in the forest continues. The Warriors take another loss and go to condition Yellow. The Cadets take two losses and go to Green.</div><div><br /></div><div><b><span style="color: #2b00fe;">Turn 9: </span></b><b><span style="color: #2b00fe;">Trading Conglomerate </span></b><b><span style="color: #2b00fe;">bid 1; </span></b><b><span style="color: #2b00fe;">Desert Raiders</span></b><b><span style="color: #2b00fe;"> bid 1</span></b></div><div>Another drawn bid, due to a sudden violent electrical storm. The reroll give Trading Conglomerate 6; Desert Raiders 5.</div><div><br /></div><div>Stilgar himself falls back behind the Trappers, and his Marksman ducks into the cover of the adjacent hill, attracting opportunity fire from the nearby intact Cadet unit. The Marksman fails to dodge and is shredded in a lethal Cadet fusillade. This is a serious blow, it might lose the game π§ for the Desert Raiders.</div><div><br /></div><div>In the melee, the Cadets pull off another win. Rolling lower, their melee dice wipe out the last 2 Proud Warriors before they can respond, and so they lose nothing themselves. With this the Desert Raiders have 3 dead and 2 living, so lose the game. Here is the final position.</div></div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgmiQYwbyb4yYHcNvnlx0080ewvkzzlz16cdUdN8W_HMBZIxIsXQ8pBs-auIjiER0zEW28d-Z3sWos0mYJ92ZbKhQH4Zv6FWx8__Zu2lI3J0lESkZ2co0sIdWOhCYvgbxnOkzimiiLHUJqZlENkQV82BpW9i1lNkoYM6nMKkFPQLe7RtJF_GbsMsay8g/s480/f.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="218" data-original-width="480" height="181" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgmiQYwbyb4yYHcNvnlx0080ewvkzzlz16cdUdN8W_HMBZIxIsXQ8pBs-auIjiER0zEW28d-Z3sWos0mYJ92ZbKhQH4Zv6FWx8__Zu2lI3J0lESkZ2co0sIdWOhCYvgbxnOkzimiiLHUJqZlENkQV82BpW9i1lNkoYM6nMKkFPQLe7RtJF_GbsMsay8g/w400-h181/f.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div><div>To the left, the stand off between the sentry gun and the condition red Proud Warriors continues. To the right the intact Cadet squad celebrates the destruction of the Desert Raider Marksman (out of shot to the right). In the centre, Kranki and his special friend celebrate as the Cadet unit on condition Green dispose of the last Proud Warriors after their epic defence. Deeper in the forest the Trappers, and Stilgar, are intact but must now try to escape the wrath of the victors.</div><div><br /></div><div>ππππππππππππππππππππππππππππππ</div><div><br /></div><div>Losses: Desert Raiders: 11 Warriors, 1 Marksman = <b>3 dead, 2 living</b>. Trading Conglomerate: 15 warbots = <b>3 dead, 4 living</b>. This counts as a Minor Victory for the Trading Conglomerate. Had the game continued into Turn 10, the Desert Raiders would have won a Major Victory, regardless of the usual win/loss rules, for holding off the Trading Conglomerate long enough.</div><div><br /></div><div>A damned near-run thing. It was won on the playing fields of the Bakhtiar Warbot Foundry.</div><div><br /></div><div>Thatβs all from CotGB land, and Pattaya, for now.</div></div><div><br /></div>Victorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16503479573321677384noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4245905456624199836.post-13193638964693152932022-03-28T20:39:00.004+11:002022-03-28T22:26:39.967+11:00COTGB Scenarios: Research Station X<p><i>Some distant signals have been received from Mark Stevens in Pattaya, and have been reposted here for posterity....</i></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOsGkrXgqg0x88yv0l_jhCIPSVfNnldw3DkpVzEzTJEweectMVY1ebsw8J8L9mi6fLYR72wNJznUGYDGbkZv3uFV77OQ21n659Tm1WqS4Oa2HJoIvdGSMY49exLdJLFpzG9_I5WvyavCsiaMIlXJoZyudNj6pkwd_V10C82JNj4YsPplzao6eiJd954A/s640/cover.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="438" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOsGkrXgqg0x88yv0l_jhCIPSVfNnldw3DkpVzEzTJEweectMVY1ebsw8J8L9mi6fLYR72wNJznUGYDGbkZv3uFV77OQ21n659Tm1WqS4Oa2HJoIvdGSMY49exLdJLFpzG9_I5WvyavCsiaMIlXJoZyudNj6pkwd_V10C82JNj4YsPplzao6eiJd954A/s320/cover.jpg" width="219" /></a></div>CotGB is βChallengers of the Great Beyondβ a sci-fi skirmish ruleset by Victor Jarmusz (publisher Ganesha Games), using the βBattleswornβ engine. The most unusual aspects of which are (1) no measuring move or shooting distances; (2) activation is by competitive bids. Sounds weird. Works well. There is a solo play mechanism which retains the bidding element. Hereβs shot of the rule book cover β€<br /><p></p><p>As the cover art suggests is very much at the space opera / science fantasy end of the spectrum. Think Flash Gordon rather than Starship Troopers. My own figures are mostly WOTC Star Wars plastics.</p><p>Anyway, here is the βResearch Station Xβ scenario provided in the rules. If time permits Iβll do the βRearguard Actionβ scenario too, in a follow up report.</p><p>ππππππππππππππππππππππππππππππ</p><p><b><span style="color: #2b00fe;">The Forces</span></b></p><p>The two opposing forces for this game will be a Crime Gang and a Smuggler crew, both based on the list of possible sample forces but, per the scenario special conditions, reduced to 9 slots only.</p><p><u>Wat Tambor & his Crime Gang (living count 3)</u><br /><span style="color: #cc0000;">π</span>2 x Starport thug squads (total 6 slots)<br /><span style="color: #cc0000;">π</span>1 x Crime Lord character (total 3 slots) (leader)</p><p><u>Worm Loathsom & the Smugglers (living count 3)</u><br /><span style="color: #cc0000;">π</span>1 x Starport thug squad (total 3 slots)<br /><span style="color: #cc0000;">π</span>1 x Robber Crew squad (total 3 slots)<br /><span style="color: #cc0000;">π</span>1 x Smuggler character (total 3 slots) (leader)</p><p>In a nutshell, this is a fight to control (or deny enemy control) of a squad of passive βscientistsβ in a research station in the centre of the table.</p><p>I will be actively playing the Smuggler faction, and the Crime Gang will use the NPC bidding. The Crime Gang are attackers.</p><p>ππππππππππππππππππππππππππππππ</p><div><b><span style="color: #2b00fe;">Turn 1: Crime gang bid 3, Smugglers bid 2</span></b></div><p>So the Smugglers get to make 2 initiative points, and the Gang get 1 non-initiative point. Loathsom (despite his name he is a popular and successful Smuggler) decides to move himself and his Starport Thugs squad up to the edge of the research station. On the other side, Tambor moves up one of his squads too. Here is the end of Turn position The Crime Gang came in from the left, the Smugglers from the right.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjQoe9hDqVsMMXGcA-7-O5xk4m1vN33yJ8-NxqL1UWmeQhUlswyIFplflOOHhW3VXDxPj_O2x6hHA4KNWAYj6fyo5ulhe4wEQeNa2iAPUXhbdLY1ZmQhwNURg4ff9bAay_gSY-hI1MZz_A1B1-qn29KAilM3-4pc0Fp8ECJ7kjiSpnwjzzvZI6s7euTQ/s1500/1.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1125" data-original-width="1500" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjQoe9hDqVsMMXGcA-7-O5xk4m1vN33yJ8-NxqL1UWmeQhUlswyIFplflOOHhW3VXDxPj_O2x6hHA4KNWAYj6fyo5ulhe4wEQeNa2iAPUXhbdLY1ZmQhwNURg4ff9bAay_gSY-hI1MZz_A1B1-qn29KAilM3-4pc0Fp8ECJ7kjiSpnwjzzvZI6s7euTQ/w640-h480/1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div><div><b><span style="color: #2b00fe;">Turn 2: Crime gang bid 3; Smugglers bid 3</span></b></div><div>The βdrawn bidsβ table indicates the Smugglers (as nominal defenders) get to set a trap under a selected enemy unit. Loathsom targets Crime Lord Wat Tambor himself. He is hit by a trap, and goes to βproneβ condition</div><div><br /></div><div><b><span style="color: #2b00fe;">Turn 3: Crime gang bids 6; Smugglers bid 3</span></b></div><div>Loathsom and his Starport Thugs enter the research station and look for the scientists (under the scenario rules the latter are not in LOS at this point, presumably theyβre inside the building). His Robber Crew also move, using their Rocket packs to fly right across the table to a position near the enemy who are still on their own baseline.</div><div><br /></div><div>In response, the Gang use their non-initiative points to recover Wat Tambor from the effects of the trap, throw a protective cordon between Tambor and the Robber Crew, and enter the research station to search for the scientists.</div><div><br /></div><div>Hereβs the end of turn situation. In the research station, the two gangs of Starport Thugs face off. Elsewhere, Tambor is screened by his other Starport Thugs from the Robber Crew who have dropped in to say hello.</div></div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTTysxSVi9H3X1m3bX8FoffvcR0sRclc7Joa1bsoNq9tuFc0XT-C8QwiZbIYDQLnLqL9QviowuXO5U-q_W3roQ4rB_bbRk66XJCxHmijOEa031mQDw012ROL56PRde95UdBF1JBkimCZ9Kme12ibLpnRShlOOb61CrAEeFIBBT4aElMf1WfYisg-EZIg/s1500/2.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1125" data-original-width="1500" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTTysxSVi9H3X1m3bX8FoffvcR0sRclc7Joa1bsoNq9tuFc0XT-C8QwiZbIYDQLnLqL9QviowuXO5U-q_W3roQ4rB_bbRk66XJCxHmijOEa031mQDw012ROL56PRde95UdBF1JBkimCZ9Kme12ibLpnRShlOOb61CrAEeFIBBT4aElMf1WfYisg-EZIg/w640-h480/2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div><b><span style="color: #2b00fe;">Turn 4: Crime gang bid 1; Smugglers bid 1</span></b></div><div>Another drawn bid. The alternative initiative resolution prescribed in the drawn bid table translated this to Crime Gang 5; Smugglers 3, plus no flying is allowed because of a violent electrical storm.</div><div><br /></div><div><i>Admin note: For the sake of making it harder to capture scientists, I decided that any unit/s in the research station must use 1 miscellaneous action to capture 1 scientist, until they are all caught. </i></div><div><br /></div><div>The Smugglers use their initiative points for the Robber Crew to shoot at the Starport Thugs closest to them, but missed as the Thugs somehow dodged π. Elsewhere Loathsom ordered his Thugs in the research station to keep looking. He and they used 2 miscellaneous actions to capture 2 scientists. </div><div><br /></div><div>The Gang used all their non-initiative action to catch 2 scientists of their own. We now have this weird situation with the two squads of Starport Thugs occupying the same terrain space, but unable to charge (they will not charge an enemy unless it is condition Yellow or Red) or shoot (I ruled LOS was not good enough inside the BUA being the effect of abstracting rooms, walls etc).</div><div><br /></div><div>End of Turn situation. You can see the boffins (on grey sand bases) alongside the squads (& Loathsom) that have caught them. Two more eggheads remain uncaptured as yet. Hiding under their lab benches no doubt.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdo1aKVgZCrUsqmxjDu0Lv80OzHEDkypO9jYR4mAOyc5--8A5DGWNxVXNfno0owP5imNXa2dQNHkyt26vnfWrI5i6VNLdVO5klKsCHgFudREOEkDgiIWWkY6gkczNiiJ3haH97uFyI_o2BmaSQp2nGrvqxTgvau4epF5XX2iO2RyM8hG6V7Wt8Fss2-w/s640/3.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdo1aKVgZCrUsqmxjDu0Lv80OzHEDkypO9jYR4mAOyc5--8A5DGWNxVXNfno0owP5imNXa2dQNHkyt26vnfWrI5i6VNLdVO5klKsCHgFudREOEkDgiIWWkY6gkczNiiJ3haH97uFyI_o2BmaSQp2nGrvqxTgvau4epF5XX2iO2RyM8hG6V7Wt8Fss2-w/w640-h480/3.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div><div><b><span style="color: #2b00fe;">Turn 5: Crime gang bids 6; Smugglers bid 6</span></b></div><div>Another drawn bid, thatβs 3 out of 6 bids drawn. Both sides get 2 action points for shooting only, resolving shooting from the nominal attacker (Crime Gang) first. Also 2 melee phases. Well, there are no melees under way, but there is an available firefight, which we can stretch to 2 exchanges of fire. </div><div><br /></div><div>The Crime Gangβs Starport Thugs had shot at the Smugglersβ Robber Crew twice, and received two rounds of return fire, the Robber Crew had been wiped out and the Starport Thugs were in condition Red (reduced to 1 figure only). Here is the scene of carnage:-</div></div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIXei7s-SEgMv-rFZB-jjldRUiRo8JRmlROT5X63cqY8CEuomuJJzGopoE0MjR244gAf3e_mdg4HnXJ7EC1MhXpqXp8yB8jnERffp7ZAah5aJi-6kzAbl7_-MMgo6fvmq6DO8taUI0E-ai1pFvDKuUnb8BoZf8hllkE9SPWpF94kMvyd3cOtp8ARdYeA/s640/4.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="324" data-original-width="640" height="324" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIXei7s-SEgMv-rFZB-jjldRUiRo8JRmlROT5X63cqY8CEuomuJJzGopoE0MjR244gAf3e_mdg4HnXJ7EC1MhXpqXp8yB8jnERffp7ZAah5aJi-6kzAbl7_-MMgo6fvmq6DO8taUI0E-ai1pFvDKuUnb8BoZf8hllkE9SPWpF94kMvyd3cOtp8ARdYeA/w640-h324/4.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div><div><b><span style="color: #2b00fe;">Turn 6: Crime gang bids 5; Smugglers bid 2</span></b></div><div>Worm Loathsom and his Starport Thugs inside the research station use both their initiative points as miscellaneous actions and round up the two remaining scientists. Now they have 4 from 6 and the Crime Gang have only 2 from 6. The Gang use non-contact moves to move their condition Red unit & Wat Tambor up to the outside edge of the research station.</div><div><br /></div><div><span style="color: #2b00fe;"><b>Turn 7: Crime gang bids 5: Smugglers bid 4</b></span></div><div>Loathsom orders his Starport Thugs to pull back from the research station, and he himself does likewise. The scenario allows the captured scientists to move with the capturing unit. The retreating units stop just outside the station (change of terrain). In the non-initiative phase, Wat Tambor moves into the research station to join his own Thug squad. Hereβs the state of play as the end-game gets under way;</div></div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRqJK4FMjZP08xlW9BCBXRPIUddkAPeKf-Rldi1V28HBJm2pKT7kbVV4fHu7lmSa5nkFTX8-lvx6JrLFC_bLCjqd3MuRocNzsqptjeVMvjEEQM9xzMr9tsy5bhULZjaJWno2ztlG34AopdL2tvo8Ha_ifTn9evcnu1Cp0ongjh94pi7GauyfGW3dL1bg/s1500/5.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1125" data-original-width="1500" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRqJK4FMjZP08xlW9BCBXRPIUddkAPeKf-Rldi1V28HBJm2pKT7kbVV4fHu7lmSa5nkFTX8-lvx6JrLFC_bLCjqd3MuRocNzsqptjeVMvjEEQM9xzMr9tsy5bhULZjaJWno2ztlG34AopdL2tvo8Ha_ifTn9evcnu1Cp0ongjh94pi7GauyfGW3dL1bg/w640-h480/5.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div><br /></div><div><div><b><span style="color: #2b00fe;">Turn 8: Crime gang bids 4; Smugglers bid 4</span></b></div><div>Another drawn bid, now 4 from 8! Regroup. The defender (Smugglers) get 2 non-initiative points. The attacker gets nothing. The Smugglers (Worm and the Starport Thugs) retreat to the large thorn bush patch and take up defensive positions just inside.</div><div><br /></div><div><b><span style="color: #2b00fe;">Turn 9: Crime gang bids 1; Smugglers bid 5</span></b></div><div>The Crime Gang advance through the research station and take up positions just opposite the Smugglers. Tambor and the other (condition Red) unit cannot join them, no actions available.</div><div><br /></div><div><span style="color: #2b00fe;"><b>Turn 10: Crime gang bids 4; Smugglers bid 1</b></span></div><div>The standoff between the two squads of Starport Thugs continues. They cannot charge as the enemy is not on condition Yellow or Red. But they now can shoot. The shooting bids are Smugglers 1, Crime gang 2. The Gang opt to return fire rather than try to dodge. The Smugglers cause 1 loss to Tamborβs men, who turns out to be one of the captured scientists. The Crime gang shoot back from the research station, with no result.</div></div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsVXRhFdcs_sNXZrQRBcLX3WeS6faEdXpqDDdz-0iX6qjCeAXyBplI9BUG_j-aooRBhMXyPEn2ENO03ugPi8Fjf0y6859K9K6exe9pW3dQyb_vtGMMZeciXFunkpQtO4JYrEaMXnrmTd6bXCjGLGj8pZe0te0x6c_4wIvlRPeZjxtnUZa3pQ0cbx5BDA/s640/6.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsVXRhFdcs_sNXZrQRBcLX3WeS6faEdXpqDDdz-0iX6qjCeAXyBplI9BUG_j-aooRBhMXyPEn2ENO03ugPi8Fjf0y6859K9K6exe9pW3dQyb_vtGMMZeciXFunkpQtO4JYrEaMXnrmTd6bXCjGLGj8pZe0te0x6c_4wIvlRPeZjxtnUZa3pQ0cbx5BDA/w640-h480/6.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div><div>ππππππππππππππππππππππππππππππ</div><div><br /></div><div>Thatβs the end of the game.</div><div><br /></div><div>The Crime Gang end with a living count of 2 (after losing 5 thugs who also count as 1 dead). They gain +2 for occupying the research station unopposed and +1 for living captured scientists. <b>Total = 5</b></div><div><br /></div><div>The Smugglers started end with a living count of 2 (after losing the 4 Robber Crew). They have +4 for the captured scientists. <b>Total = 6.</b></div><div><br /></div><div>So, a narrow win for Worm Loathsom and his Smugglers.</div></div>Victorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16503479573321677384noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4245905456624199836.post-20682327331089043112020-11-03T20:03:00.003+11:002020-11-03T20:03:00.691+11:00CoTGB: The Anchorhead War (Second Battle)<div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgk3YmZR-dsKanB57whaC7tKZqATiMpgyDh4WtgS3DLB9yDfKN_7g_xnirTfNtLAi_vrwRaz7ag6qN1U87Ysk2cPuGAuFfb5n35kLj8ThLVgBKZKOHLy6O0h-HRo7K_M5Wf_W2ksP0uZApq/s2048/Challengers_Cover.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><br /></a></div>Next report from Mark at Mos Pattaya of the ongoing campaign using the Challengers of the Great Beyond rules:</div><div><br /></div><div>As news spread of the destruction of Anchorhead by the Sand People, refugees from many remote settlements fled to Mos Pattaya and the other larger towns to seek safety. Leaders of the Moisture Farmersβ League, using the slogan βthe only good Tusken is a dead Tuskenβ, raised funds to hire a mercenary outfit to take the fight to the Sand People.</div><div> </div><div>Early in the Month of the Crottled Greep, the mercenaries headed into the Dune Sea, into an area long known to contain Sand People camps and home territories, on a search and destroy mission.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Biffo at the Krayt Gorge</b></div><div><br /></div><div>For this game the two sides were:</div><div><br /></div><div><u>Mercenaries (6 life points)</u><br />1 x Crime boss (leader) (Lorm Woathsom) - character (3 slots)<br />1 x Medic (Dr McCoy) - character (2 slots)<br />1 x Sentry gun (Robot Walker) - character (3 slots)<br />2 x Starport thugs (Humanoid scum) - squads of 6 (6 slots)<br />1 x Cadets (Battle droids) - squad of 6 - (2 slots)</div><div> All these figures are plastic Star Wars minis by Wizards of the Coast. No longer in production.</div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNtGrpntuxwvlB0thODb8t3cG-vfEQsY14FmpRzwWW85oBKT8IzrWmS9zDj8Ev55DE6hXq546L0uU3e15Tr71NPF8Oh0Q-Jdtk7VMnyrJmgvSQ8F74wvP8UB4npHkbQz2SRBCYjQySHbn_/s640/2a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="328" data-original-width="640" height="205" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNtGrpntuxwvlB0thODb8t3cG-vfEQsY14FmpRzwWW85oBKT8IzrWmS9zDj8Ev55DE6hXq546L0uU3e15Tr71NPF8Oh0Q-Jdtk7VMnyrJmgvSQ8F74wvP8UB4npHkbQz2SRBCYjQySHbn_/w400-h205/2a.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><u><br /></u></div><div><u>Sand People (7 life points)</u><br />1 x Champion (Liet Kynes) - character (3 slots)<br />1 x Maverick (leader) (Stilgar) - character (3 slots)<br />1 x Marksman - Tusken with jezzail rifle - character - (2 slots)<br />3 x Proud warriors (Sand People) - squads of 6 - (6 slots)<br />1 x Trappers (Jawa) - squad of 6 - (2 slots)</div><div>The Trappers are WOTC Jawa figures, the others are from the Ironclad Minis βSanwarβ range. The additional squad accidently left out of the shot is from my Archives Cultists, they are very old Citadel Necromunda figures from the βRedemptoristβ gang. Youβll be able to spot them in some of the following pictures.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHsTTWaLOx_2NlZIPhDaUw_dejChmnu61CJ0bihVABsKA4ufX7Z4l45pv8qc0WxsYJ0YVsnimWMY91D-BX-5QicI7b8uKXMfiHFsbfVCeJOCL4oWvCMt6WZ3RZFXToFlyzNmA5j4QccO2b/s640/2b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="324" data-original-width="640" height="203" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHsTTWaLOx_2NlZIPhDaUw_dejChmnu61CJ0bihVABsKA4ufX7Z4l45pv8qc0WxsYJ0YVsnimWMY91D-BX-5QicI7b8uKXMfiHFsbfVCeJOCL4oWvCMt6WZ3RZFXToFlyzNmA5j4QccO2b/w400-h203/2b.jpg" width="400" /></a><br /></div><br /><div>Here is the tabletop, showing the Krayt Gorge and initial deployments. The Trappers + a Proud Warriors squad are hiding in the wood. All terrain (buttes, thornbush & rock thickets) is impassable, except for the camp, three small dunes, and the green wood (which is growing around a soakhole, hence the Tusken camp).</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaAfkmPmciSSn5TZ7sF9I8L20sRca2MdFCy69V2dMP29GMTscYCmDJHK4sIjCzhffmFXcBsPjaCzM4CwSHEHKZXMH9U7b_fPN_MW76yJUKSsaHKBaHhxGtVFjWsGYqQYzRe3FWDkBaQgKC/s640/2c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaAfkmPmciSSn5TZ7sF9I8L20sRca2MdFCy69V2dMP29GMTscYCmDJHK4sIjCzhffmFXcBsPjaCzM4CwSHEHKZXMH9U7b_fPN_MW76yJUKSsaHKBaHhxGtVFjWsGYqQYzRe3FWDkBaQgKC/w400-h300/2c.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div>The Sand People are coming from the West (L side) as the mercenary column approaches from the East (R side). The huts represent a Tusken camp. Each hut passively defends at S:M3 / M:M3 and counts as being in cover. If the Mercenaries can destroy them all they can remove any Proud Warriors squad on the table (they have run off to defend their families).</div><div><br /><b>After 3 turns</b> the Mercenaries are advancing cautiously towards the camp, trying to ensure any Sand People movement in the open will be punished by shooting.<br /><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikjAM6YhTq7AAIzaPju4dSsuPe45eEnOqZY6aVF7NgenKvDuiWUzeySRBn-n84ApOLE6A8KVNy0DbYSjaHzulldvOX0ddEt41Lh92l9Y3adzG69eYLwl0HH2SkUcdBjgttykyUUIN6ZzB1/s640/2d.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikjAM6YhTq7AAIzaPju4dSsuPe45eEnOqZY6aVF7NgenKvDuiWUzeySRBn-n84ApOLE6A8KVNy0DbYSjaHzulldvOX0ddEt41Lh92l9Y3adzG69eYLwl0HH2SkUcdBjgttykyUUIN6ZzB1/w400-h300/2d.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div>The Sentry gun has moved off the dune at R to a position from where it can shoot at the warrior squad way across the table, and on turn 3 it fired, causing three hits. In a non-initiative response move a warrior squad (ex-Redemptorists) hidden in the wood has appeared on the flank of the gun ...</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Turn 4</b> was a busy one, the Sand People won initiative 3-5. The Warrior squad that emerged from ambush charged the Sentry gun, which scored only one hit using opportunity fire against them (not aimed fire = no bonus dice). In the ensuing melee the Warriors took the gun to condition Red (they destroyed it next turn). This is at bottom of the photo.<br /></div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg18bwVbPk_2aoqUt5CpWQkCfRutjDY3gHvgQa1o-C9-R2gDtk-YoNjNwlcQZA90xx-blcZirXdiHtVyU5ry-VU1Xx5ooyDWJLjgi_5EznTo_MR9JpibNf8NomETaBHbyidQSsOl3QA7Dfz/s640/2e.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg18bwVbPk_2aoqUt5CpWQkCfRutjDY3gHvgQa1o-C9-R2gDtk-YoNjNwlcQZA90xx-blcZirXdiHtVyU5ry-VU1Xx5ooyDWJLjgi_5EznTo_MR9JpibNf8NomETaBHbyidQSsOl3QA7Dfz/w400-h300/2e.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div>Another Warrior squad, and the Champion, charged into the Cadets, who failed to score any hits as they came in. The melee ended with 3 Cadets & 2 Warriors down, and the Champion lost 1 life point (of 5) (Blue marker). The Cadets go to condition Green. This is in the centre of the photo. The Mercenaries responded by moving up a thug squad to where it can charge or shoot at the other Warrior squad (top of photo) next time.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>At the end of turn 6</b> this was the position. At top of photo the Mercenary leader (Crime lord Lorm Woathsom) has scooted around the large butte to be out of LOS of the Sand People marksman, who is hunting him, just out of shot on the dune at R. The various explosions each mark the destruction of a unit.<br /></div><div><br /></div><div>At L, the Sand People have lost a warrior unit, though the leader (Stilgar) survives on condition Yellow and another Warrior squad is nearby on condition Green. This is the unit that previously destroyed the Sentry gun. The Mercenaries have 2 Scum squads in this area, 1 on condition Yellow and 1 undamaged. Both sides have been using the leadership bonus in the melee here.<br /></div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEho22GqzVDMK_LG1PxV95QpDTf8gwvq5v9PK8GouBmM6VNbLn_XvYGBeUTGpf53yxFVpEAmm_Ta1rpmxeJ6VXo2EHbNQsT69csja-rXsJnfCVhcAv8KuVMXusrvecjqD-xKIq2iTRq72q7o/s640/2f.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="430" data-original-width="640" height="269" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEho22GqzVDMK_LG1PxV95QpDTf8gwvq5v9PK8GouBmM6VNbLn_XvYGBeUTGpf53yxFVpEAmm_Ta1rpmxeJ6VXo2EHbNQsT69csja-rXsJnfCVhcAv8KuVMXusrvecjqD-xKIq2iTRq72q7o/w400-h269/2f.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div>Over on the R the Sand People have a Trapper squad untouched in the wood. They also have a Warrior squad on condition Green, and the Champion (Liet Kynes) who has lost 3/5 life points. But the Mercenaries have lost their entire Cadet squad, and their Medic. It should be noted that Dr McCoy did heal 1 lost cadet, and inflicted two hits on the Sand People attackers, before falling. There are lessons to be learned here about forward deployment of Medics ... they need to be close to the action but not too close. Probably safer to use them supporting units in shooting mode rather than getting close to mΓͺlΓ©es,</div><div><br /></div><div>Win/lose check.<br /></div><div>π© Mercenaries: Living: 1 character + 8 squaddies = 2 lives. Dead: 2 characters + 10 squaddies = 4 lives.<br />π© Sand People: Living: 3 characters + 12 squaddies =5 lives. Dead: 12 squaddies = 2 lives. </div><div><br /></div><div>So the Sand People have won again, after a somewhat shaky start. The mercenaries did try a strategy of pushing for the Tusken camp using firepower to cover their open flank, but in the end it fell short. It looks as if only Lorm Woathsom and one squad of Starport scum (undamaged units) will be able to get away. The Sand People have only the Trappers undamaged, all other surviving units are on condition Green or Yellow.</div><div><br /></div><div>Next - the Imperial garrison on Tataouine gets involved.</div><div><br /></div><div>Cheers from Mos Pattaya<br />Mark</div><div><br /><br /></div><div><br /></div>Victorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16503479573321677384noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4245905456624199836.post-56070844611015698692020-10-27T00:30:00.046+11:002020-10-27T00:30:00.155+11:00CoTGB: The Anchorhead War (First Battle)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgk3YmZR-dsKanB57whaC7tKZqATiMpgyDh4WtgS3DLB9yDfKN_7g_xnirTfNtLAi_vrwRaz7ag6qN1U87Ysk2cPuGAuFfb5n35kLj8ThLVgBKZKOHLy6O0h-HRo7K_M5Wf_W2ksP0uZApq/s2048/Challengers_Cover.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><div><br /></div></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFtsQttB0f_RmsqBoNkecBx94tBK03muDJGjJ0NZHB-pKWzjYjcYqjMcy49XiQxidWXUxzv6KzLUm6dSfgm5LSjS0C-kP4q858HUbj0PiU8I56SjD4asY7Vaki4inwKyohQy2Ma_iLlV7V/s2048/Challengers_Cover.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1365" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFtsQttB0f_RmsqBoNkecBx94tBK03muDJGjJ0NZHB-pKWzjYjcYqjMcy49XiQxidWXUxzv6KzLUm6dSfgm5LSjS0C-kP4q858HUbj0PiU8I56SjD4asY7Vaki4inwKyohQy2Ma_iLlV7V/w133-h200/Challengers_Cover.jpg" width="133" /></a></div><div><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: black; direction: ltr; display: inline; float: none; font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">Mark Stevens from Mos Pattaya has run a series of battles in a linked campaign, using <a href="https://boardgamegeek.com/boardgame/313014/challengers-great-beyond">Challengers of the Great Beyond</a>. The figures used are mostly from the now defunct Wizards of the Coast Star Wars range, but there are a lot from other manufacturers mixed in. I'll now leave it to Marks battle report...</span></div><div>
</div><p><span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">The
so called Anchorhead War is not widely known beyond the arid Outer-Rim world of
Tataouine. It got its name from what could be seen in retrospect as the first
skirmish in the conflict, when indigenous primitives (Sand People) attacked the
small moisture farming settlement of Anchorhead on the edge of the Dune Sea.</span></p><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">The two sides each comprised the statutory 16 slots:</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><u>Sand People: life points 7</u></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">1 x Maverick character - Stilgar (Leader) (3)<br />1 x Beast rider character (Sand People warrior on giant lizard) (3)<br />1 x Marksman character (Sand People warrior with jezzail sniper rifle) (2)<br />4 x Proud warrior squads (Sand People warriors, 6 pet squad) (8)</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><u>Anchorhead defenders: life points 7</u><br />1 x Psi-master character (Jedi master Kyle Katarn*) (Leader) (5)<br />1 x Sentry gun character (Community defence weapon) (3)<br />4 x Cadets squads (Assorted armed inhabitants, 6 per squad) (8)<br />* βHonestly guv, I was just passing throughβ</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Hereβs the (900x900mm) tabletop, featuring the little settlement and surrounding buttes and patches of thorn scrub & rocks, all impenetrable. The two forces are lined up facing each other off-table at R, attackers nearer the camera.<br /></span></div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3_MZao_lwZIRVQE_0rV2zHhkoa-_gLXPedFsBJIyrWr0nMER1lzdvSrQ4PatHePcjzqdXhWFkTDdRIg3B_cm2YThJpHyGlv7z1gnS4WjpSr0FHzs70i6V4YuYiZESPI2q0Ji8fhCkO3Ai/s640/1.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="384" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3_MZao_lwZIRVQE_0rV2zHhkoa-_gLXPedFsBJIyrWr0nMER1lzdvSrQ4PatHePcjzqdXhWFkTDdRIg3B_cm2YThJpHyGlv7z1gnS4WjpSr0FHzs70i6V4YuYiZESPI2q0Ji8fhCkO3Ai/w400-h240/1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">This is a "modified" ambush scenario. The
Sand People will attack from the South (bottom of photo). The defenders will start with their character models (Jedi Master, Sentry gun) and one squad on table. The other squads are assumed to be coming from surrounding settlements and will arrive from the North on the first turn after turn 2 when the defender side does not win initiative.</span></div><div><b></b><i></i><u></u><sub></sub><sup></sup><strike></strike><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #000120;"><b>After 2 turns</b> the Sand People seem to be overrunning Anchorhead. At top R the explosion marker shows where one warrior squad has charged the sentry gun. It failed to score any hits on them as they charged, or in the melee and they destroyed it (4 melee hits).</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #000120;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #000120;">Near the sentry gun you can see Jedi Master βLeapingβ Kyle Katarn. He was attacked by the warrior squad now in the Main Street. At lower L yet another Sand People squad survived an opportunity fire shot from the moisture farmers (2 hits) and dominated them in the melee (3 hits).</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #000120;"><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEbLFZPAYIMv2-g25FWplfTWSHcr5XYpcJydgluFUZpoeme_2v8VQeRcI1u5VjVBqjoXav_EClLxA_Co1Khyphenhyphen7qEpKrBATmpSvvSh7GJhPsfDjoatZx1VavSeDQA6VVEWqoCPxxq955PhRq/s640/2.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEbLFZPAYIMv2-g25FWplfTWSHcr5XYpcJydgluFUZpoeme_2v8VQeRcI1u5VjVBqjoXav_EClLxA_Co1Khyphenhyphen7qEpKrBATmpSvvSh7GJhPsfDjoatZx1VavSeDQA6VVEWqoCPxxq955PhRq/s320/2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>After 6 turns</b> the Moisture Farmers are staging a bit of a comeback, but probably it wonβt be enough. At top of shot 1 Sand People squad is being shot at by 2 Moisture Farmer squads, but so far each side has suffered only a single loss. But Kyle Katarn is having more success: he has used his psi powers to Mind Control the Sand People squad with the blue marker, and now he is moving them towards the big melee at bottom of shot. </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFE_MsiQrDul3cvd4tvcHw9a_UkgNKc1TwZSn3F8VvqnYDZFWJyHBAwycH5O8CFIWGQpJJMWJaj7YQVslFqMUaJPT9E6B_bomEdyGhfbSr7BORVg2d06XgewW4ZCcWqtLjq-702eFUnv0L/s1500/3.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1125" data-original-width="1500" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFE_MsiQrDul3cvd4tvcHw9a_UkgNKc1TwZSn3F8VvqnYDZFWJyHBAwycH5O8CFIWGQpJJMWJaj7YQVslFqMUaJPT9E6B_bomEdyGhfbSr7BORVg2d06XgewW4ZCcWqtLjq-702eFUnv0L/w400-h300/3.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: left;">In the big melee the Sand People now have 2 squads involved, one of which is on Condition Green. The Moisture Farmers have lost 1 whole squad, and have another squad on Green, but the Mind Controlled Sand People may be about to pile in! </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Elsewhere, the Sand People beast rider is still back on the start line from lack of Initiative Points. Stilgar (the Sand People leader) and the Marksman can be seen behind one of the houses. They were plotting an attack on Kyle Katarn but he has moved away.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Losses (life points) are: Sand People 1; Moisture Farmers 3.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">The game ended at the end of turn 11, with a clear win to the Sand People. The photo shows the final position. At top of shot are 2 Moisture Farmer squads, one on Condition Green. They have destroyed a Sand People squad and Beast rider. To the L of them, another Sand People squad and the leader Stilgar (Maverick) have taken the Jedi Master Kyle Katarn to Condition Red. He chose to continue mind-controlling the enemy squad rather than (say) push the attacking squad away. The mind controlled squad is at bottom R of shot.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHy88UOD38qyO-yaxoAaGQHBrvJECo9lxhiT5ry-7352DIRjvIKEfIsCB1WlC-B5710-iXxAomco8qB-dzbGvMsHz6ircVpxRFgYZsVQEcWHtydTahbZlrDv7fzwhrzvTVIL0Ps2j2tk8I/s1500/4.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1125" data-original-width="1500" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHy88UOD38qyO-yaxoAaGQHBrvJECo9lxhiT5ry-7352DIRjvIKEfIsCB1WlC-B5710-iXxAomco8qB-dzbGvMsHz6ircVpxRFgYZsVQEcWHtydTahbZlrDv7fzwhrzvTVIL0Ps2j2tk8I/w400-h300/4.jpg" width="400" /></a><br /></div><div> </div><div>Both sides began with a life count (used for determining winning / losing) of 7, based on βmore dead than aliveβ A life point is equal to 5 squad members or 1 (sometimes 2) character models. Kyle Katarn is a 2-point character.</div><div><br /></div><div>At the end of the game the Sand People have lost their Beast Rider (1 life) and 13 squaddies (2 lives) so have 3 dead, 4 living. The Moisture Farmers have lost the Sentry Gun (1 life) and 15 squaddies (3 lives), and <span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">Kyle Katarn, being a character on condition red, isnβt dead but counts against the total life count of the force, </span>so have 4 dead, 1 living.</div><div><br /></div><div>In forthcoming instalments:</div><div><br /></div><div>π© The Moisture Farmers hire mercenary help and go after the Sand People<br />π© The Imperial garrison gets involved<br />π© The Sand People step it up and attack Mos Pattaya (itβs the Tet offensive).</div><div><br /></div><div>Cheers from Mos Pattaya (not on the front line yet)<br /><br /></div><div>Mark</div><div><br /></div><div>
<b></b><i></i><u></u><sub></sub><sup></sup><strike></strike><b></b><i></i><u></u><sub></sub><sup></sup><strike></strike><br /></div><div><b></b><i></i><u></u><sub></sub><sup></sup><strike></strike><br /></div>Victorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16503479573321677384noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4245905456624199836.post-7903912551277898612020-10-23T23:56:00.003+11:002020-10-24T16:17:45.329+11:00CoTGB: Smugglers vs Warbots<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhli-ny_ofVdFXv21dBYiU32JiZNQlPyEJ2PmbIXlQ85Sav_ikVlrKVquE35Z2TqE6w3qMgABs6XJS7iQCn7qZDTXY8WFOQX6cd0mtqLCqZF7NH8G5H4_YvLx7ggwJUDP1Zz3TGpJoRoFV-/s2048/Challengers_Cover.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1365" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhli-ny_ofVdFXv21dBYiU32JiZNQlPyEJ2PmbIXlQ85Sav_ikVlrKVquE35Z2TqE6w3qMgABs6XJS7iQCn7qZDTXY8WFOQX6cd0mtqLCqZF7NH8G5H4_YvLx7ggwJUDP1Zz3TGpJoRoFV-/s320/Challengers_Cover.jpg" /></a></div><div>It was time to play <b>Challengers of the Great Beyond</b> again at the Southern Battlegamers club. I planned to run a force of warbots against a rag-tag smuggler type grouping run by Martin. The warbot force was using the sample list in the book, being;</div><div><br /></div><div>Cyborg leader (Primordial Beast): 4 slots</div><div>Sentry gun: 3 slots</div><div>Robot sidekick: 1 slot</div><div>4 x light warbots (Cadets): 8 slots </div><div><br /></div><div>Martins smuggler crew were;</div><div><br /></div><div>Psi-Knight leader: 4 slots</div><div>Bounty Hunter: 3 slots</div><div>2 x Starport Thugs: 6 slots</div><div>1 x Proud warriors: 2 slots</div><div>1 x burden: 1 slot</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbtMek826wPuJ1lQQLVUZrO0g3smZDOD9d-qmHVbuAmaCuSU8EK4vPEo6qHm7bboANUveJvdxf_LqqjlxDKNM2025lMWfwCP_Rr5sXol2sOADHqEKEYYkHBC-bo94gUAlgCngGj-Q2nu-Y/s2048/IMG_0659.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbtMek826wPuJ1lQQLVUZrO0g3smZDOD9d-qmHVbuAmaCuSU8EK4vPEo6qHm7bboANUveJvdxf_LqqjlxDKNM2025lMWfwCP_Rr5sXol2sOADHqEKEYYkHBC-bo94gUAlgCngGj-Q2nu-Y/s320/IMG_0659.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>This is an image of the warbot force. Due to the great secrecy the smugglers carry out their operations in, I did not get an image of their starting line up.<br /><div><br /></div><div>We rolled for the complication and got "the macguffin redux". This is a tricky scenario, probably better suited to a more stealthy force like the smugglers. Both players put a clue token on their half of the board, and whenever a unit moves over a token, it is removed. From the 4th token removed, there is a chance it will be the "final" token that has the artifact that must be taken off the table. The trick is in the timing of uncovering the tokens - if you reveal all the ones on your half of the board, you give the game to the opponent, as they will be guaranteed to find the artifact on their half of the board and easily win the game.</div><div><br /></div><div>The initial set up is as follows;</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQxDVShOMCa56o0AG6CB1tYfsoAmDRDFBHisw0JQwxqy6-3E4-7yJpD9UOFH1ZwVnPlO2cNvhh9YJ0JbfqePRQavsOpzQkUsB0GLXlFell46XLu8f5fdKWoIt3pIBsOPbNtIvPwvr6Iwmj/s1500/setup.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1125" data-original-width="1500" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQxDVShOMCa56o0AG6CB1tYfsoAmDRDFBHisw0JQwxqy6-3E4-7yJpD9UOFH1ZwVnPlO2cNvhh9YJ0JbfqePRQavsOpzQkUsB0GLXlFell46XLu8f5fdKWoIt3pIBsOPbNtIvPwvr6Iwmj/w400-h300/setup.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div>The yellow discs are the clue tokens. Of interest was a group of starport thugs finding a cozy home at a franchise outlet of Morebucks Slurpdregs franchise;</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjc-ALkKrj8WVTnsWsXOIIngjSveBgT5odlSGXzlDlm5Q_kpclbS3CqHU_9tnmsM-nxOJkEphQRgGUOnUDGrC9s956qjymD5g7ey1ifOWQBdmNYHPXSiwOdK2t36FbNa4CO30m_w3yD4PxM/s1500/coffee.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="958" data-original-width="1500" height="255" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjc-ALkKrj8WVTnsWsXOIIngjSveBgT5odlSGXzlDlm5Q_kpclbS3CqHU_9tnmsM-nxOJkEphQRgGUOnUDGrC9s956qjymD5g7ey1ifOWQBdmNYHPXSiwOdK2t36FbNa4CO30m_w3yD4PxM/w400-h255/coffee.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div>Anyway, the smugglers won the first initiative and the psi-knight leader using the leap psi skill leapt across the table from his position at the side of the morebucks building straight into a group of light warbots. The warbots used opportunity fire, inflicting 1 hit on the psi-knight, however, the melee was a fizzer - the psi knight must have been distracted by the flesh wound and completely missed.</div><div><br /></div><div>In the following turn the warbots won the initiative and the cyborg leader, with its great movement ability, charged into the psi knight, the position shown below;</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaskk57-VIQYbqKvMOmpnOu2dj8X3SFMjpDg7tVTJr3Pw9woqJjT07asKORMIs3W9dcnam_c0vHV5IbqRqnr615wGtjwskiJ8ajkkG2aXmzyWLcs9pO8o7rU1s1H3oc8x8sxf9KoSMIGoo/s1500/counter+charge.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1125" data-original-width="1500" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaskk57-VIQYbqKvMOmpnOu2dj8X3SFMjpDg7tVTJr3Pw9woqJjT07asKORMIs3W9dcnam_c0vHV5IbqRqnr615wGtjwskiJ8ajkkG2aXmzyWLcs9pO8o7rU1s1H3oc8x8sxf9KoSMIGoo/w400-h300/counter+charge.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div>The fight was again quite defensive, with the psi knight parrying all attacks while failing to inflict anything back. As a side action, other warbots fired upon their foes, but missed as the starports thugs are quite evasive. Even the sentry gun failed after unleashing a volley upon the morebucks building.</div><div><br /></div><div>In the next turn, where the smugglers won the initiative, the psi-knight pulled off a telling move. Using the "speed" power, giving the opportunity for two actions, he broke off from the fight and revealed the first token on the warbots side of the board. With the second action, he charged into another group of light warbots with a view to entering the building behind them.</div><div><br /></div><div>Below is the result of the fight;</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhC9bzLfwueeZZc_fbluVJ0N9nUyewK4oPKhwUYQKP-O0OppadpEluMycJXQYAHWQ7vG65Ka-0s4A06jeg50JetV6d_Htw2FpZ3k0N2RyHiHmI6ganwWVV4BqsMc_XD7SEDW0J9ugVruJNP/s2048/attack.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1250" data-original-width="2048" height="244" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhC9bzLfwueeZZc_fbluVJ0N9nUyewK4oPKhwUYQKP-O0OppadpEluMycJXQYAHWQ7vG65Ka-0s4A06jeg50JetV6d_Htw2FpZ3k0N2RyHiHmI6ganwWVV4BqsMc_XD7SEDW0J9ugVruJNP/w400-h244/attack.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div>The left image shows the initial attack and the roll of the psi knight - with 6's counting as double hits for a plasma sword wielder, that came to 7 hits, a total wipeout as seen on the right. The warbots did attack first with 4 dice, but being mooks against a martial artist, they scored no hits in return.</div><div><br /></div><div>The warbots has a lot of work to do. They won initiative in the next turn and opened fire again on the morebucks building, where the thugs had climbed to the roof to get the next clue token. The gun scored 3 hits. The cyborg also charged the psi knight in an attempt to end his reign of destruction - with the fight again being a stalemate and no wounds on either side. The smugglers, losing initiative, did a lot of manouvering, with the proud warriors moveing to position to attack a group of light warbots, and the bounty hunter being revealed next to a clue token. The position shown below;</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGwdKNDauKIlMk12jlXzXNc781UdEa7T4iFiX8fiShTDJGUT7i9-ArYl7mrVSJbZLHBe_9RVYzNqimLbdjTNVu4D6I6IMihWNj7epsOWZSuxSxotArU1vAVmKWhPAt0mdoEOo507aLjA1G/s1500/prelude.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1125" data-original-width="1500" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGwdKNDauKIlMk12jlXzXNc781UdEa7T4iFiX8fiShTDJGUT7i9-ArYl7mrVSJbZLHBe_9RVYzNqimLbdjTNVu4D6I6IMihWNj7epsOWZSuxSxotArU1vAVmKWhPAt0mdoEOo507aLjA1G/w400-h300/prelude.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div>The next turn was critical to the outcome of the game. The smugglers won initiative, and were able to reveal the rest of the clue tokens on their half of the board. With the 4th token revealed, this was a big gamble. They had to roll a 5 or 6 to have the 4th token being the artefact, on a failure, the warbots get into the box seat for victory as the artefact will be on their half of the table. As it was, the bounty hunter, on revealing the 4th token, rolled a 5. There were only two things that could stop the smugglers winning - the group of nearby light warbots, and if the cyborg could win and be freed from the fight with the psi knight.</div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhazAE0PtYmsx-pvfcUbMGoO2E3PJfcu7zCgrC7uAEJsEP9vqb5hfjXFmzNvMLktiLr-xjvkOIyAX1DbiYEYlo1kkNrgEITAzlVUlenIMEApb8djCqVrmQQrBoo9EQrTtwHusMEfCi_lhP_/s2000/warriors.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2000" data-original-width="1500" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhazAE0PtYmsx-pvfcUbMGoO2E3PJfcu7zCgrC7uAEJsEP9vqb5hfjXFmzNvMLktiLr-xjvkOIyAX1DbiYEYlo1kkNrgEITAzlVUlenIMEApb8djCqVrmQQrBoo9EQrTtwHusMEfCi_lhP_/s320/warriors.jpg" /></a></div>The proud warriors charged, losing one figure to opportunity fire, but rolled well in the fight, wiping out the warbots with 6 hits, amazing rolling, as can be seen by the picture. Again the fight between the cyborg and psi knight resulted in a stalemate. The cyborg, being a "primordial beast" could not break away from the fight, so the psi-knight just had to keep it pinned in melee.</div><div><br /></div><div>In the following turn, the victory dance of the proud warriors was short lived, as a unit of light warbots opened fire and wiped out 4 figures, leaving only 1 remaining.</div><div><br /></div><div>However, it was all to late as there was no one to stop the bounty hunter exiting the board and running off with the artefact. The game was over by the 6th turn with a victory to the smugglers. In terms of casualties, the smugglers lost 5 proud warriors and 3 starport thugs (8 squad figures), while the warbots lost 12 cadet figures.</div><div><br /></div><div>The smugglers force worked to its strengths, the psi knight was able to take a clue from the opponents side of the board to get a chance at their end of the board, and the bounty hunter was able to appear at an opportune location to get the 4th clue. The main hitting unit of the warbots, the cyborg, was able to be kept engaged by the psi-knight while the smuggle force was free to reveal clues. Though, had they failed to succeed on the 4th clue, the game could have turned out quite differently. So a near run thing in the end, a good game!<br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>Victorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16503479573321677384noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4245905456624199836.post-81442601443158846002020-07-06T22:16:00.001+10:002020-10-24T16:18:00.799+11:00Challengers of the Great Beyond<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-z7d3lRZ0F-YiZufp6B0iRsZsq0cV_GfXLWAApszgNMglGS5Q8oVxDnhjQxjuS9vrWuEpY6STxW3WRQ2aVhfCqGMOXhfGL_LpqsTY4ijR6jjprZOv9ThR9Tw31WRZkdVSFSu7qOXRb1w2/s1600/Challengers_Cover.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-z7d3lRZ0F-YiZufp6B0iRsZsq0cV_GfXLWAApszgNMglGS5Q8oVxDnhjQxjuS9vrWuEpY6STxW3WRQ2aVhfCqGMOXhfGL_LpqsTY4ijR6jjprZOv9ThR9Tw31WRZkdVSFSu7qOXRb1w2/s320/Challengers_Cover.jpg" width="212" /></a></div>
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A new skirmish game from Ganesha Games is <a href="https://www.ganeshagames.net/product_info.php?cPath=1_9&products_id=395">Challengers of the Great Beyond</a> (CotGB), intended for use with miniatures in a space opera style sci-fi world. This is a standalone game that is a progression of the fantasy <a href="https://www.ganeshagames.net/product_info.php?cPath=1_6&products_id=226">Battlesworn</a> rules written by Andrea Sfiligoi. As I wrote CotGB, I though it would be good to outline some of the differences with Battlesworn.<br />
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Battlesworn, which came out in 2013, is really a unique set of rules. It has a twist to most other sets of rules in that it uses a bidding system to determine initiative, as well as melee and shooting attacks. It also does not use measuring sticks - terrain instead dictates the extend of movement.<br />
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A traditional game will often determine how many units or figures you can activate with a random dice roll or multiple dice rolls. Here, you instead bid between 1 and 6 how many units you get to activate. If your bid is lower, that is how many you activate, if you bid higher, you activate the difference between both bids. There is a mechanism to deal with drawn bids. The lower bidder moves first and can attack, the higher bidder moves second, mainly reacting to the lower bidder or move around, they cannot initiate attacks. This provides a fair amount of agency, as you have to think of what you want to achieve this turn, and what your opponent wants to achieve, and try to get the bid right. It also gives the game at times a chess-like feel, where it can feel like you have out-witted your opponent with a good bid!<br />
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A difference between both rules is that in Battlesworn, you can bid any number between 1 and 6 throughout the game. In CotGB, standard playing cards are used instead, each player gets 12 cards, two 6's, two 5's, two 4's etc. Two cards are put aside as you play out 10 turn. Apart from helping with counting down the turns in the game, a big effect of the limited bid numbers is that you must plan the tempo; at what stage of the game you want to bid low? At what stage you want to bid high? It also reduces the number of drawn bids - for example, in the original Battlesworn, both players may be going for low bids of 1 or 2 towards the end of the game, and might continually bid the same number.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEf4henMLRAprHxgJ_3vAtPcqXn7_xQhpEicRfcjypGBddIdHbA3DyiFmaZ7pW8jtIuO6CEu7U_5yzhv8PIXmBm8_52VoNog58j24cZBsWGsRNot41IQNLJ1ZtinbEBNU5JYo8FVxhp7B4/s1600/Back.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="527" data-original-width="432" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEf4henMLRAprHxgJ_3vAtPcqXn7_xQhpEicRfcjypGBddIdHbA3DyiFmaZ7pW8jtIuO6CEu7U_5yzhv8PIXmBm8_52VoNog58j24cZBsWGsRNot41IQNLJ1ZtinbEBNU5JYo8FVxhp7B4/s320/Back.jpg" width="260" /></a>The mechanism for melee and shooting bids remain unchanged from the original Battlesworn. Here you instead use a six sided dice, place your bid face up on the table, but cover the dice with your hand or a lid. Both bids are then revealed at the same time. Unlike initiative, the higher bidder gets the full value of their bid (not the difference) - but the lower bidder goes first, so may defeat their opponent before they strike back.<br />
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Another difference between both sets is the introduction of squads. Battlesworn has the "rabble" concept, 1 life point models (rather than 4 life points) that were cheaper but acted as individuals. Squads in CoTGB are 4 or more models of 1 life point each that stay together. However, unlike rabble they do not act as individuals, the whole squad instead acts as if 1 figure. This was an important thing I wanted to represent in the game - large numbers of "mooks" that blaze away at heroic characters but are not as effective (important for Space Opera!). This also increases the figure count from Battlesworn where you generally had up to 12 figures, in CotGB, you can get up to 30+ figures a side. With the extra figure count, the rules have also been modified as to how line of sight and cover work.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8sdt_GXgjOz_JsxXnyuBUePPyz-zFZbhQeBuyD3SjSOsCfv6BFDRzfwawCrngFZZOYRx_jKwlX-6fJeAXcm5PjdzqTBOJ3qJesu8oIXdD18HPB9wjuUgPk3MMujRAOIp3wcbIpzJP35HP/s1600/Filler_P_46.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="521" data-original-width="1600" height="104" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8sdt_GXgjOz_JsxXnyuBUePPyz-zFZbhQeBuyD3SjSOsCfv6BFDRzfwawCrngFZZOYRx_jKwlX-6fJeAXcm5PjdzqTBOJ3qJesu8oIXdD18HPB9wjuUgPk3MMujRAOIp3wcbIpzJP35HP/s320/Filler_P_46.png" width="320" /></a></div>
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The classes are also quite different to that in Battlesworn. They are probably closer in feel to those in <i><a href="https://www.ganeshagames.net/product_info.php?cPath=1_6&products_id=279">Knights and Knaves</a></i>, where each class has a number of abilities rather than just one. This also means that there is no multiclassing, but enough variety is represented so that you can run most figures available. Some abilities are similar to Battlesworn, most are completely new.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTvnOVc15EvyWoL8q00mEocmcVBbGq1iIbulOdqhVJIjiCTm2lRdP2H_6-KpeA-FZEeFZWeImGZDKU1FRKKQkTW0v52lV4bXgVDx_4C1UHg-y-Shrwt-KOcwN00nam7Ixn2WW7QLWL6KZc/s1600/Filler_Page_25.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="767" data-original-width="1600" height="152" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTvnOVc15EvyWoL8q00mEocmcVBbGq1iIbulOdqhVJIjiCTm2lRdP2H_6-KpeA-FZEeFZWeImGZDKU1FRKKQkTW0v52lV4bXgVDx_4C1UHg-y-Shrwt-KOcwN00nam7Ixn2WW7QLWL6KZc/s320/Filler_Page_25.png" width="320" /></a></div>
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Psionics in CotGB is similar in effect to a lot of the magic powers in Battlesworn. A change here, however, is that they operate independently to the action point system - instead, psi users draw on a pool of psi points that reduces each time a power is used. This helps give psionics a powerful impact in the game, as they can be used in addition to the initiative bid, and allows characters to combine them with an action to pull off heroic feats.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeX5uL1SOOnp0qQANSFC2TS39WpRWBqe5dYo8mcElm8govJmkkrlJwFfS7Xsv_9uW2RnqpRgu5TSHiuY1j5pnKkivvF8dYDwrgp3Bg7TS3XMtkC8ZQrevRVShye3RpIdgbxkuYD7LD1AnN/s1600/Redshirt+Transparent.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; display: inline !important; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="893" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeX5uL1SOOnp0qQANSFC2TS39WpRWBqe5dYo8mcElm8govJmkkrlJwFfS7Xsv_9uW2RnqpRgu5TSHiuY1j5pnKkivvF8dYDwrgp3Bg7TS3XMtkC8ZQrevRVShye3RpIdgbxkuYD7LD1AnN/s320/Redshirt+Transparent.png" width="177" /></a>Overall, CotGB was born out of a desire to bring Battlesworn into sci-fi. I had played the game with various futuristic mini's and thought that with a few tweaks, it would work well in a shooting heavy, high tech environment. The few tweaks became many as the game developed. Some key philosophies were that despite the shooting, in space opera fashion, hand to hand fights would remain a decisive way to win. Powerful characters should also be able to survive against gauntlet a expendable squads. This also flows through to the victory system where 5 squad figures are equal to most single characters - so beating up on squads will not give victory in many cases, you still have to take down the enemy characters.<br />
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I hope that those who play this game get as much enjoyment from it as I do!<br />
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<i>For some more reports and resources on Battlesworn and CotGB, there is some excellent information at the <a href="http://hordesofthethings.blogspot.com/search/label/battlesworn">Stronghold Rebuilt</a>.</i><br />
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Victorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16503479573321677384noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4245905456624199836.post-61890276426862842012020-04-28T21:24:00.000+10:002020-04-28T21:24:20.603+10:00Arena Games Campaign<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLSe1Cdrk8hFv8AF902_LYVrJD7A1sYrjotUoL52vVWtYwNOXrnHCiH8cmtSkMNZNCOP7QAy9elaIwDJOd1x-H6vpGP9PQOV3ktecrYwzthswXmvA5rC4hXtW4f_wd1TLZC1OGAiPxB1MW/s1600/arena+games.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="388" data-original-width="300" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLSe1Cdrk8hFv8AF902_LYVrJD7A1sYrjotUoL52vVWtYwNOXrnHCiH8cmtSkMNZNCOP7QAy9elaIwDJOd1x-H6vpGP9PQOV3ktecrYwzthswXmvA5rC4hXtW4f_wd1TLZC1OGAiPxB1MW/s200/arena+games.jpg" width="154" /></a>In my last blog post, I statted up a group of 54mm gladiators for playing <i>Munera Sine Missione</i> and <i>Arena Games</i>. I thought I would play out the suggested campaign at the back of the Arena Games rules. The campaign takes the form of a knockout competition, so that 7 games are needed to play with 8 figures - round one the 8 gladiators fight in pairs over 4 games. Tis then halves as the winners paly each other in pairs in two games, then there is the final fight.<br />
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One challenge was that I was doing this solo, and there is a dice allocation mechanic in the rules which involves a bit of bluffing and setting up a future move. I decided initially on using a dice roll to work out how the points were allocated, but his gave some strange results. Eventually I just used judgement on how to allocate the points. <br />
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I am using 54mm gladiators that I covered in my last post <a href="https://victusvenatus.blogspot.com/2020/04/54mm-gladiators.html">54mm Gladiators</a>. The initial draw looks like this;<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-8WrPD6PLgSCVm_xx7t9XREb-JpX8DqSN4QhOakCe7uYSSzvlqXQw5kUIF4Gi4PGI57fQRk5-FsHklhmdVuleMPDL44MXwE7QQ17xlZPXFGK3Cane1Gl7rOyfG8sazh5P9CZB0jDNkvAd/s1600/Draw.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1126" data-original-width="1600" height="281" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-8WrPD6PLgSCVm_xx7t9XREb-JpX8DqSN4QhOakCe7uYSSzvlqXQw5kUIF4Gi4PGI57fQRk5-FsHklhmdVuleMPDL44MXwE7QQ17xlZPXFGK3Cane1Gl7rOyfG8sazh5P9CZB0jDNkvAd/s400/Draw.png" width="400" /></a></div>
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<b>Fight 1: Flamma (Myrmillo) vs Proculus (Thracian)</b><br />
These two evenly matched gladiators traded blow for blow until Flamma took too many hits to the legs and was reduced to a one hex move. Proculus could not finish it off and ended up losing his shield. This was down to the wire with both gladiators down to 4 or 3 attack dice from 6. The critical time came in the 6th turn where Flamma won initiative and had Proculus against a wall, and then getting the critical body blow, so it did not go to appealoculus. For his efforts, Proculus gained a +1 to inititaive skill. Here is the final position:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7kZ_k8kO7f9GKitF-Y5z_qupP_ucDDDxBwku2R8TMbBstOnBfdE2w0NYv9EnlEb1H8XJlZfDihJCQD52mnV0Yq5H9TDbbi0ebfU-7mEqRtggfnOE-vJcvSQpb0sxAX6lZex6z21pxPsZC/s1600/IMG_0581.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1072" data-original-width="1600" height="263" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7kZ_k8kO7f9GKitF-Y5z_qupP_ucDDDxBwku2R8TMbBstOnBfdE2w0NYv9EnlEb1H8XJlZfDihJCQD52mnV0Yq5H9TDbbi0ebfU-7mEqRtggfnOE-vJcvSQpb0sxAX6lZex6z21pxPsZC/s400/IMG_0581.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<b>Fight 2: Piscator (Retiarius) vs Ferox (Contra-Retiarius)</b><br />
This fight started with a successful net toss by Piscator, who was able to inflict 4 wounds before Ferox broke free. Piscator tried some fancy manoeuvring rather than trying to retrieve his net which backfired when Ferox got some solid leg hits reducing Piscator to a one hex move. With the movement advantage gone, and the net too far away to retrieve, Ferox closed out the fight in the 3rd turn with an attack to the head, which was another mortal wound. The main lesson was for the Retiarius to always retrieve the net...Ferox gained a popularity skill. Here is the final position:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZdL204Eq5sPYjo4AuROcgZlgGmuG2HU13XeT8JjL4jfQR6yfwHctXk_ulukEMwwU2RHShQVuX8f3P8qsI0DlTJjFJHyT7IkCUC-fMLljTdpUQo0tfpATJaTMf9BFfx7ZvikoY0HIvi1G3/s1600/IMG_0583.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1069" data-original-width="1600" height="263" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZdL204Eq5sPYjo4AuROcgZlgGmuG2HU13XeT8JjL4jfQR6yfwHctXk_ulukEMwwU2RHShQVuX8f3P8qsI0DlTJjFJHyT7IkCUC-fMLljTdpUQo0tfpATJaTMf9BFfx7ZvikoY0HIvi1G3/s400/IMG_0583.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<b>Fight 3: Memnon (Myrmillo) vs Brennus (Velite)</b><br />
This was going to be interesting, as in some test games earlier, Brennus was very hard to beat. Brennus was a lot more successful in his attacks, doing 7 hits on Memnon, but they were all scattered. Brennus only too 4 hits, but 3 were to the head meaning....another mortal wound in game terms. A win to Memnon, who also gained a popularity skill. I'm not sure that skill is too useful, however, as none of the fights have gone to crowd appeal yet. Here is the final position:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifXdJgWMLbFXM2ANDifO982FJlxfeLJ5eFaOsi0eg6vsQV2ixpiGEg5i6qZ05Fnsn12cQQMFuQyOvn3veLrzyh2BkqnXKH8GqCfbqAcJIlLldkT_0G4BeZo96HedYE75OvcwJ-qtUmW1wX/s1600/IMG_0584.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifXdJgWMLbFXM2ANDifO982FJlxfeLJ5eFaOsi0eg6vsQV2ixpiGEg5i6qZ05Fnsn12cQQMFuQyOvn3veLrzyh2BkqnXKH8GqCfbqAcJIlLldkT_0G4BeZo96HedYE75OvcwJ-qtUmW1wX/s400/IMG_0584.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<b>Fight 4: Diodorus (Dimachaerus) vs Clitus (Hoplomachus)</b><br />
Clitus had better armour, but Diodorus was faster with a good double sword attack. Diodorus was finding it difficult to break through the armour after 2 turns of trying. So he gambled on getting rear attacks by trying to finish the turn at the back of Clitus, hoping to win initiative. Clitus won initiative on the 3rd turn and made Diodurus pay. Diodorus tries again, but again lost initiative, eventually losing on the 4th turn with another mortal wound to the head. Clitus only took one wound in the whole fight, which sent an ominous message. He also gained the +1 initiative skill, which seemed appropriate. Here is the final position:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAeRQPYzOvjXhoy_PiK6SD6VRoISZcKwErOtyDODj2akGrrND_o9JZvQv4rBv7hQpUddD2PI-VdCseNs1RRAcSv1qef5V8Vu6K0OsHEi8OWyYtdBjGvfYHKLvDXQBuRWBsutzdEL6hQ8-O/s1600/IMG_0586.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1225" data-original-width="1600" height="306" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAeRQPYzOvjXhoy_PiK6SD6VRoISZcKwErOtyDODj2akGrrND_o9JZvQv4rBv7hQpUddD2PI-VdCseNs1RRAcSv1qef5V8Vu6K0OsHEi8OWyYtdBjGvfYHKLvDXQBuRWBsutzdEL6hQ8-O/s400/IMG_0586.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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The position after the first "round 1" fights;<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxHpQsiX55icSJ25860E58UrVJAQVGKJ6eQtKRXGEoHpfGtfqjITCL3YvRrqgTwOWtFDMJZ-mdugvGUXG2g6Xig2TZIGpL0fg74fpEl5UdJXjA-Kb8FpKXJkSVwWDaATfsdvAlLXkaFlNi/s1600/Round1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1132" data-original-width="1600" height="282" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxHpQsiX55icSJ25860E58UrVJAQVGKJ6eQtKRXGEoHpfGtfqjITCL3YvRrqgTwOWtFDMJZ-mdugvGUXG2g6Xig2TZIGpL0fg74fpEl5UdJXjA-Kb8FpKXJkSVwWDaATfsdvAlLXkaFlNi/s400/Round1.png" width="400" /></a></div>
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<b>Qualifying Fight 5: </b><b>Ferox (Contra-Retiarius)</b><b> vs </b><b>Flamma (Myrmillo)</b><br />
Flamma started with a strong attack that only caused one wound to the heavily armoured Ferox. Then Ferox countered with a quick 3 wounds to Flamma, who was now reduced to 5 attack dice. It seemed that Flamma was now doomed. Flamma tried the (failed) Diodorus tactic of ending the turn at the rear and attempt to win initiative. Flamma pulled it off and was able really damage and wear down Ferox. Unlike previous fights, the wounds were fairly scattered so Ferox was tkane down to zero stamina by the 4th turn - the +1 initiative skill to Flamma worked. It went to appeal. Being the 4th turn, Ferox needed a 6 on a D10 to survive, but had the popularity skill giving a +1. He rolled a 5, so that skill worked 2. The first time the loser has survived a fight. Flamma gained the initiative skill.<br />
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<b>Qualifying Fight 6: </b><b>Memnon (Myrmillo)</b><b> vs </b><b>Clitus (Hoplomachus)</b><br />
It looked like Clitus had the edge in this fight, better armour, the same initiative, and a long reach spear. Memon had to start fast, which he did, scoring 2 hits on Clitus. However, Clitus got probably the best combat rolls of the tournament so far, inflicting 6 wounds on Memon, 5 on 1 leg, so reducing Memnon to a 1 hex move. Against a gladiator that has a 2 hex attack range with the spear, this become mission impossible. Memnon could have thrown his sword, but that was a low percentage play against a relatively healthy Clitus. Memon was worn down to below zero stamina, ending the fight. Clitus gained the popularity skill (though there has only been 1 appeal in 6 fights....), not sure why these gladiators want the crowd. Here is the final position:<br />
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Here is the position leading up to the final fight:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcx-VRS7Mg7pJW3b2tDXyGjnI2qsuy77bXg82ux08CqjkPTzyK3eKDiWOt9UvHlx9906sIBMJCmWzZydtYkcdhpP0qyZ8ZdQvMgYPtxC2ka1rivec8CBnCa1J87q9dsTfl6LXY-5toyiFj/s1600/Round2.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1132" data-original-width="1600" height="282" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcx-VRS7Mg7pJW3b2tDXyGjnI2qsuy77bXg82ux08CqjkPTzyK3eKDiWOt9UvHlx9906sIBMJCmWzZydtYkcdhpP0qyZ8ZdQvMgYPtxC2ka1rivec8CBnCa1J87q9dsTfl6LXY-5toyiFj/s400/Round2.png" width="400" /></a></div>
<b>Final: </b><b>Flamma (Myrmillo) vs </b><b>Clitus (Hoplomachus)</b><br />
The final fight. Of the 2, Clitus had been the more convincing so far. This was to prove an epically dour fight, as neither gladiator wanted to take too much risk. The first breakthrough came when Clitus took enough hits to lose his shield. This turned the fight to Flamma's favour. The critical point came where Flamma skirted with the Arena wall to get a rear attack, and Clitus won initiative and tried to rein a flurry of blows upon Flamma, but the attack failed. Clitus was taken to zero Stamina by the 7th turn, the longest fight so far. It went to appeal - on the 7th turn, a roll 4+ was needed, and Clitus had +1 for popularity. He rolled a 2..... Here is the final position:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPJwQDQOZucoXAgx_NyMO7fA-ER1Ktqt6lnwNr_WxesEUGwr9KBgUXpcj7OUIAE3XTfH58VxDgA0dZz-J5uOtXwN61pZhp7pPLWfr07V5cJLk8W95rmjoQI4e46cUTt0kAFTf1VH021WDh/s1600/IMG_0588.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPJwQDQOZucoXAgx_NyMO7fA-ER1Ktqt6lnwNr_WxesEUGwr9KBgUXpcj7OUIAE3XTfH58VxDgA0dZz-J5uOtXwN61pZhp7pPLWfr07V5cJLk8W95rmjoQI4e46cUTt0kAFTf1VH021WDh/s400/IMG_0588.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtaQAZsfJhdIVJyhA9ww1zVVm8V3ho3sEpLE6M_sOv1YIypRZG9qwEDIsMsXfVwOcoDuutXpIgPOotYE7xPtGyk-P_bV6_a1M1ikJbrJD-c4XZwgWquUwSOztnLPu1mpBdzLO6kx1AMz4m/s1600/Final.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1132" data-original-width="1600" height="282" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtaQAZsfJhdIVJyhA9ww1zVVm8V3ho3sEpLE6M_sOv1YIypRZG9qwEDIsMsXfVwOcoDuutXpIgPOotYE7xPtGyk-P_bV6_a1M1ikJbrJD-c4XZwgWquUwSOztnLPu1mpBdzLO6kx1AMz4m/s400/Final.png" width="400" /></a></div>
This was quite a deadly campaign, only two gladiators from eight survived. A lot happens in each turn, and though the games last a maximum of 10 turns, the average length was 4 turns. The games did provide a lot of action and there was plenty of movement.Victorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16503479573321677384noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4245905456624199836.post-75720454076747562272020-04-25T21:22:00.001+10:002020-04-25T21:51:05.425+10:0054mm Pegasus Gladiators<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLytgIouusSQJCSw5ZMTHoUOT3de0x8w8yyNngeG0Cc7LSa3u-ym6z81bv5aTAC5BSR_Og9fYJwq98l0ZIh9wWQQl6b59giSf1Pq59KxNOK632IyUOY8arAPlxhYeLlYe8LnusmgTvjTwr/s1600/PEG-3201.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="150" data-original-width="240" height="125" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLytgIouusSQJCSw5ZMTHoUOT3de0x8w8yyNngeG0Cc7LSa3u-ym6z81bv5aTAC5BSR_Og9fYJwq98l0ZIh9wWQQl6b59giSf1Pq59KxNOK632IyUOY8arAPlxhYeLlYe8LnusmgTvjTwr/s200/PEG-3201.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhb62iHvwBKP7WevjzwcIvO8sJeC3Ux14zQzGQJo79hobIb2Mdn5SpdNgaDjK7mcnOu1FHqC5Xd0EpoAy-4zy6p6lXQhYYpE3nEd_3WyDQDMmNwmOi28OdsE9LpEFSgOOFk39Ua_jHqjsgS/s1600/s-l1600.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="976" height="121" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhb62iHvwBKP7WevjzwcIvO8sJeC3Ux14zQzGQJo79hobIb2Mdn5SpdNgaDjK7mcnOu1FHqC5Xd0EpoAy-4zy6p6lXQhYYpE3nEd_3WyDQDMmNwmOi28OdsE9LpEFSgOOFk39Ua_jHqjsgS/s200/s-l1600.jpg" width="200" /></a>A while ago I acquired a couple of packs of Pegasus 54mm plastic gladiators. They seemed quite cheap (compared to the metal ones that can be bought), have some good action poses, and cover all the standard gladiator types. I thought they might be good for use in conventions, as they are a lot easier to see from a distance. The Pegasus gladiators are a bit shorter than the metal ones (scale creep in 54mm...!), and not as detailed, but I have them anyway so thought I'd paint them up for use with one-on-one gladiator games using either <a href="https://boardgamegeek.com/boardgame/20786/munera-sine-missione">Munera Sine Missione</a> or <a href="https://boardgamegeek.com/boardgame/43545/arena-games">Arena Games</a>.<br />
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Arena Games (AG) are a simple seem more geared towards convention gaming, where you rush in and roll dice. They are far more basic than Munera Sine Missione (MSM), particularly with weaponry and shields which AG treats mostly the same. However, AG has a nice system for handling armour (distinguishing between metal and leather/padded) and damage in different body areas, which is good for 54mm, and are easy to use.<br />
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This is the first time I have tried painting 54mm. I painted them the same way I've painted 28mm figures, but realised out later on that doesn't really work. The parts I'd normally pay less attention to actually have the detail to put that little bit more effort into. I ended up going back and blacklining them (fine tipped black pigment pens worked well for this) to make the paint pop a bit more, and painted in extra details like eyes and bootlaces.<br />
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I thought I'd use the convention of assigning permanent names to each figure. I am going to restrict myself to only using names that are in the book/game <a href="https://boardgamegeek.com/boardgame/102741/gladiator-game-deadly-arena-combat-ancient-rome">Gladiator: The Game of Deadly Arena Combat in Ancient Rome</a>. This book has wonderful background information, though the rules seem better suited to large skirmishes rather than one-on-one fights.<br />
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I'll work out stats for both MSM and AG, as an interesting exercise in how different rules interpret the same set of data....<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwGotKD0lfrW9o1hLg_2Kf0yEQq4pkURtV8Szzro7G9ULM-avdtrpSrDAypFwnsIWQWkrqnCug961FofSoxFpaz6UCX_kXd5aIVKCXW33tdyg2WutGJmVJoPIR-4avrO5YplePbZ06DrKJ/s1600/1st+Pair.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="197" data-original-width="364" height="169" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwGotKD0lfrW9o1hLg_2Kf0yEQq4pkURtV8Szzro7G9ULM-avdtrpSrDAypFwnsIWQWkrqnCug961FofSoxFpaz6UCX_kXd5aIVKCXW33tdyg2WutGJmVJoPIR-4avrO5YplePbZ06DrKJ/s320/1st+Pair.png" width="320" /></a><b>Flamma.</b> MSM: sword, light armour, helmet, large shield. AG: Initiative=6, Armour=6, sword<br />
<b>Proculus.</b> MSM:sica, light armour, helmet. small shield. AG: Initiative=6, Armour=6, sword.<br />
A Myrmillo and Thracian. In AG, both gladiators have identical stats. Swords and sica's are treated the same, and there is no difference between small and large shields. Both have metal armour in the same locations. In MSM, there is a difference between sword and sica, and the small and large shields.<br />
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<b>Diodorus.</b> MSM: 2 swords, light armour, helmet. AG: Initiative=6, Armour=6, two swords<br />
<b>Ferox.</b> MSM: sword, cone, heavy armour, helmet. AG: Initiative=5, Armour=5, two swords<br />
A Diamacheri and Contra-Retiarius. In AG, there is no rule for the cone or arbelas, so I'm treating it as a sword with metal armour. Apart from heavier armour on Felix, both are the same. In MSM, there is a difference in weaponry as there are rules for the arbelas, otherwise, Ferox is treated as heavier and less agile as well.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBuy6JwBi_FNiYnqITOwusvMMzrAEU1tEQszWavaGJYmBCnXmNCtTP1G7IPI2IQcBFbyeexdHISjr-5ZWt9pIIA9SF_8yEpWyOqHhZ8MZ7yj233xwLQfaweINl7GOqHoe4-zDMGxQBziyz/s1600/3rd+pair.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="197" data-original-width="364" height="171" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBuy6JwBi_FNiYnqITOwusvMMzrAEU1tEQszWavaGJYmBCnXmNCtTP1G7IPI2IQcBFbyeexdHISjr-5ZWt9pIIA9SF_8yEpWyOqHhZ8MZ7yj233xwLQfaweINl7GOqHoe4-zDMGxQBziyz/s320/3rd+pair.png" width="320" /></a></div>
<b>Clitus.</b> MSM: long spear, sword, small shield, light armour, helmet. AG: Initiative 5, Armour 5, long spear, sword.<br />
<b>Memnon.</b> MSM: sword, light armour, helmet, small shield. AG: Initiative=6, Armour=6, sword<br />
A Hoplomachus and a myrmillo with a small shield. I like the Clitus figure it looks like a proper hoplomachus - though I re-speared it with a wire 10cm long spear. The Memnon figure in AG is the same as a Thracian or Myrmillo (such a Flamma or Proculus above), though in MSM it seems a hybrid between both - having the straight sword of the myrmillo, but the small shield of a Thracian.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpei2fHQWMXOWbeuqLxb4lHPVCNoeVOZIFLoL6ZVyyk-KBxqXMoUXDr8eR3HUpEqw1SJNKQHCIRbWwjuJByk025NFg19Q1fW2sv6LazExw-WFx5hDDTa9b-iZ0nVw9CbobHOmrXJZ68Qaf/s1600/4th+Pair.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="197" data-original-width="364" height="171" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpei2fHQWMXOWbeuqLxb4lHPVCNoeVOZIFLoL6ZVyyk-KBxqXMoUXDr8eR3HUpEqw1SJNKQHCIRbWwjuJByk025NFg19Q1fW2sv6LazExw-WFx5hDDTa9b-iZ0nVw9CbobHOmrXJZ68Qaf/s320/4th+Pair.png" width="320" /></a></div>
<b>Brennus.</b> MSM: Trident, no armour, large shield. AG: Initiative=9, Armour=9, sword<br />
<b>Piscator.</b> MSM: Trident, net, light armour. AG: Initiative=9, Armour=9, trident, net<br />
The two light gladiators in the group, Brennus is a sort of velite, whereas piscator is a retiarius.<br />
Despite the padded arm armour on Brennus, there didn't seem to be enough justification to rate the armour above "no armour" in MSM. I had to scratch build the net for Pisactor, but I think I made it too big.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQ9pTKleacTz803b8yXkHOfO14vmoWx2QNgmvwe4teyjtXcTXqX3rejL8IANARqgJWsRMkEemLLTLw_Of7IAcCiTL01pl-umkdO7uAZJefvZ7x-XnJR_Mr6E5CTZm2unRue6m5ck_A7blB/s1600/5th+Pair.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="197" data-original-width="364" height="171" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQ9pTKleacTz803b8yXkHOfO14vmoWx2QNgmvwe4teyjtXcTXqX3rejL8IANARqgJWsRMkEemLLTLw_Of7IAcCiTL01pl-umkdO7uAZJefvZ7x-XnJR_Mr6E5CTZm2unRue6m5ck_A7blB/s320/5th+Pair.png" width="320" /></a></div>
<b>Veleda.</b> MSM: sword, light armour, small shield. AG: Initiative=8, Armour=8, sword<br />
<b>Acquilina.</b> MSM: sica, light armour, small shield. AG: Initiative = 6, Amour=6, sword<br />
These are the two gladiatrixes in the set. Interestingly, under AG, there is a reasonable difference in armour, Brunhilda has 2 pieces of metal armour (the chainmail and the shield), while Acquilina has 4 (the arm guard, greave, helmet and shield). In MSM, the armour works out the same, where both are counted as as light armour. Technically, Acquilinas helmet is not enclosed (no thick metal & face protecting grille), so is treated as part of the light armour instead. Overall, they are both light gladiators in MSM, but in AG, Aquilina is heavy (equivalent of a Thracian).<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhanQV_JK0rhXllBxW6rytty3879VeWeDOwqcyNW1DDtTGKQItN1tsO6VYbILDPeLA1c4ydjKMiVqMDanp01eIcPuz4F9rTB0gS-Vx1NUFjpZZ0PHt_C5kOhifjg_2Mu6KDwgiwRzsqQH_e/s1600/6th+Pair.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="176" data-original-width="364" height="152" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhanQV_JK0rhXllBxW6rytty3879VeWeDOwqcyNW1DDtTGKQItN1tsO6VYbILDPeLA1c4ydjKMiVqMDanp01eIcPuz4F9rTB0gS-Vx1NUFjpZZ0PHt_C5kOhifjg_2Mu6KDwgiwRzsqQH_e/s320/6th+Pair.png" width="320" /></a></div>
<b>Hilarus:</b> MSM: sword, light armour, small shield. AG: Initiative=6, Armour=6, sword<br />
<b>Felix:</b> MSM: sica, light armour, small shield. AG: Base Initiative=6, Armour=6, sword<br />
Felix looks like a Thracian, and Hilarus has a secutor helmet but with a small shield.<br />
Stats wise, both gladiators are identical in AG, but in MSM the sica and the sword are treated differently. One really odd feature with these figures is that their padded arm armour is on their shielded arm rather than their weapons arm - not sure why they are modelled this way.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjz0v2we2wWAS2bAmvoLF6C1yto8Xgvn0WX_JN0UBUnNnAty7G0rax2kJbO_UtDBxrRmvidiavo5wzyNNyi1x2qWpLJSq61yyijEi0B8-0OcQcZEviVoEg8qJrS9g7UToC6O4KkL2Jba_gW/s1600/7th.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="201" data-original-width="209" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjz0v2we2wWAS2bAmvoLF6C1yto8Xgvn0WX_JN0UBUnNnAty7G0rax2kJbO_UtDBxrRmvidiavo5wzyNNyi1x2qWpLJSq61yyijEi0B8-0OcQcZEviVoEg8qJrS9g7UToC6O4KkL2Jba_gW/s1600/7th.png" /></a></div>
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<b>Lucius.</b> MSM: sword, light armour, helmet, large shield. AG: Initiative=7, Armour=7, sword<br />
Another Myrmillo. in MSM, this figure is identical the Flamma stats wise. In AG, it differs from the Flamma figure in that Lucius is slightly lighter with armour (having 1 less metal greave), as AG has more granularity in its treatment with armour.<br />
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Overall, there is a wide variety of figures in the pegasus set - there were others, such as a netted gladiator, a fallen one etc, but I didn't paint those. It seems to be missing a secutor, apart from the dwarf. The large figures look great, however, which isn't borne out in the above photos. Here is a size comparison with a 28mm figure:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhk6RGyFjLbhrLW4p3xPls9TUn-ECQt8GSspr6hXHKDnTS8uViHnVv6KJIzYzi96wRG-vEKKnIrTM5Ljti_aGrUCuAEm3REl6Xc5AvXXVsbarB5b8ExMR8J6THHj51YwWY5G4rWv77oF-fy/s1600/compare.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1462" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhk6RGyFjLbhrLW4p3xPls9TUn-ECQt8GSspr6hXHKDnTS8uViHnVv6KJIzYzi96wRG-vEKKnIrTM5Ljti_aGrUCuAEm3REl6Xc5AvXXVsbarB5b8ExMR8J6THHj51YwWY5G4rWv77oF-fy/s400/compare.png" width="361" /></a></div>
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All that is needed now is an arena with 5cm square hexes:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQfttrlPKwlCbPybt9eE-TTvwX-3By27mrv_JFi_ul3tG6j7odLCwuipnzHjE6LawDhSpuJEFnQHb94llKW8i4kAA-KXbjyI_gbPUQKqW4pFKpgm2uU-JR_xl8vpyJ-TGlb_daJEk6B066/s1600/IMG_0577.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1125" data-original-width="1500" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQfttrlPKwlCbPybt9eE-TTvwX-3By27mrv_JFi_ul3tG6j7odLCwuipnzHjE6LawDhSpuJEFnQHb94llKW8i4kAA-KXbjyI_gbPUQKqW4pFKpgm2uU-JR_xl8vpyJ-TGlb_daJEk6B066/s400/IMG_0577.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<br />Victorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16503479573321677384noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4245905456624199836.post-6714972819704186082019-06-15T14:34:00.000+10:002019-06-15T16:03:28.037+10:00Seige of TyreI recently read a very interesting online article titled <a href="https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/09523367.2017.1402760"><i>Was Pontarii Fighting the Origin of the Gladiator-Type Retiarius? An Analysis of the Evidence</i></a>. It indicated that the pons fight scenario was a recreation of the siege of Tyre, derived from the following text by Diodorus Siculus 17.43.7-9;<br />
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<i>When the Macedonians moved up towers as high as the walls and in this way, extending bridges, boldly assaulted the battlements, the Tyrians fell back on the ingenuity of their engineers and applied many counter-measures to meet the assault. They forged great tridents armed with barbs and struck with these at close range the assailants standing on the towers. These stuck in the shields, and as ropes were attached to the tridents, they could haul on the ropes and pull them in. Their victims were faced the alternative of releasing their arms and exposing their bodies to be wounded by the missiles which showered upon them, or clinging to their shields for shame and perishing in the fall from the lofty towers.</i><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBoIW3kQ0NcHwfody-25gQYP8qj9I51VQIrswA1n8HbceCqGUA17so8rI5gB0RzASFs0QsyQiTurSmyUmSuj-dSs-IJCdoJyLw2mN6wA8AzRljmRvJm02z_xUIUxOebXsQRq1R9aBL_HUj/s1600/Start.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; clear: right; color: #0066cc; float: right; font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; orphans: 2; text-align: center; text-decoration: underline; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><img border="0" data-original-height="920" data-original-width="1000" height="294" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBoIW3kQ0NcHwfody-25gQYP8qj9I51VQIrswA1n8HbceCqGUA17so8rI5gB0RzASFs0QsyQiTurSmyUmSuj-dSs-IJCdoJyLw2mN6wA8AzRljmRvJm02z_xUIUxOebXsQRq1R9aBL_HUj/s320/Start.jpg" width="320" /></a>So, using the Munero Sine Missione v3 rules, I tried to recreate the pons fight. Firstly, I had to modify a Retiarius to become a Pontarius (essentially abandoning the net for throwing rocks) - the Moonraker Miniatures retiarius seemed to fit the bill for this as it held the trident in the left hand, allowing for the net to be cut out from the right and replaced with a throwing rock. As to the "secutors", I thought it would be fun to get some secutor/murmillo gladiator figures and replace the heads with Macedonian phalangite heads - the plastic figures from the Spartacus Blood & Treachery boardgame with warlord heads from a Macedonian pike sprue looked like a good fit as proxy roman style Macedonians.<br />
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The approach of the Secutor/Macedonians was met with a lot of rock throwing - it didn't cause any damage, apart from knocking off a shield that was then picked up, and gave the Pontarius some virtus points from working the crowd. Eventually, the bridge assault began;<br />
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The attack was repelled with a trident thrust pushing the invader off the bridge, and a rock throw bringing about a "double 2" critical event, the save from which was failed. One secutor was down, but the other used the opportunity to try to approach the bridge from the other side;<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj87GH7C0nvbigUIKgOCP9-lSiIHjC6DUicKWVve_nY49mxM6AcE3lLIc8uffPSAzt6OczDVFVA7UpEf-HtPQaqJQko0AHO5FrKkdIflD5fGGLZNOHdYJ5AJV8wK3lOXMs_d1w2RwSjT5OP/s1600/KO.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="576" data-original-width="1000" height="368" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj87GH7C0nvbigUIKgOCP9-lSiIHjC6DUicKWVve_nY49mxM6AcE3lLIc8uffPSAzt6OczDVFVA7UpEf-HtPQaqJQko0AHO5FrKkdIflD5fGGLZNOHdYJ5AJV8wK3lOXMs_d1w2RwSjT5OP/s640/KO.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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This began a real tussle, the remaining secutor managed to scale up the ramp and just push the pontarius back, but did not have enough remaining AP to get to the top of the bridge to secure victory;<br />
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The pontarius, using the built up virtus points albiet some clumsy attacks, was able to get back on top and slowly push the secutor back down. The secutor was wounded and started accumulating fatigues;<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQiFMnl6Ev-AVvzF281F-KP1q5I6H2oUFidh7BGeLPuJb7D1sRcQpje-visII30yfW3yF5onFpPkr7iicHrg1mpIWXpLPztkbyN8h-nizXI3WKxLh2dkbfHNoSr8h86c0Td4gSSQ2FBKAf/s1600/repulse.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="564" data-original-width="1000" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQiFMnl6Ev-AVvzF281F-KP1q5I6H2oUFidh7BGeLPuJb7D1sRcQpje-visII30yfW3yF5onFpPkr7iicHrg1mpIWXpLPztkbyN8h-nizXI3WKxLh2dkbfHNoSr8h86c0Td4gSSQ2FBKAf/s640/repulse.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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The secutor was determined and was able to scale the bridge again, even losing his shield which fell to the ground out of reach. The pontarius was quite unlucky at this point and had some ineffective attacks, notable some double 3 critical events fatiguing him. A big push from the secutor with an AP roll of 6 allowed him to push back the pontarius and seize the top of the platform;<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGjCD2lpak4_fEef16KFhxvA7JHpwJXnarAwyhkhykMMC-KKXroE-vw9tjvcFFSUDIOBzkmtHil-6oKA_xvy5Mx_MRdBE0gKK5h8qO7jjFoUJLfYq1ZXUQRiN0zu-EolD0q6rmwnRWGsd5/s1600/Victory.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="695" data-original-width="1000" height="444" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGjCD2lpak4_fEef16KFhxvA7JHpwJXnarAwyhkhykMMC-KKXroE-vw9tjvcFFSUDIOBzkmtHil-6oKA_xvy5Mx_MRdBE0gKK5h8qO7jjFoUJLfYq1ZXUQRiN0zu-EolD0q6rmwnRWGsd5/s640/Victory.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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On top of the loss, the bad luck continued for the pontarius who failed in an appeal to the crowd. So a "historical" result was achieved with Macedonians winning the siege of Tyre.<br />
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It was a close fight in the end which could have gone either way, and gives an interesting alternative to the 1 vs 1 fights on sand.<br />
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<br />Victorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16503479573321677384noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4245905456624199836.post-68860927902072495092019-05-04T00:03:00.000+10:002019-05-04T12:39:00.403+10:00Panzer Miniatures Rules<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-DFdiST_lucrjdFT2k6OhcZv66T3CIn2yQ3Bi6T-rNjl-GAq8qHewAucQkicewbljI5fkeLOfIndWGsp2N3EVUUuIXOa0MXz6uCLlaiJEMFs4d69talYc-p2c8ufCR63WMq_FIETGqqy_/s1600/pic471571.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="674" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-DFdiST_lucrjdFT2k6OhcZv66T3CIn2yQ3Bi6T-rNjl-GAq8qHewAucQkicewbljI5fkeLOfIndWGsp2N3EVUUuIXOa0MXz6uCLlaiJEMFs4d69talYc-p2c8ufCR63WMq_FIETGqqy_/s200/pic471571.jpg" width="149" /></a>Tonight I played <i><a href="https://www.wargamevault.com/product/60348/Panzer-Miniatures-Rules-Base-System">Panzer Miniatures Rules</a></i> with Doug at the <a href="https://www.meetup.com/Southern-Gamers-Meetup/">Sutherland Shire Gamers</a> in 15mm. We have found these rules to have a lot of depth and better "realism" (if this concept is possible) as opposed to other commercial rulesets. Tank penetration is deterministic - you either beat the armour value or you don't, it is not a random dice fest. The rules are also very fast to play, and we can easily finish a game on a Friday night.<br />
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We ran a WW2 scenario using the <span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">map from campaign 2, scenario 2 "Panzerschlact" from the </span><i style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: 16px; font-style: italic; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><a href="https://www.wargamevault.com/product/180422/Armored-Armored-Combat-Scenarios-and-Additional-Rules-for-A-Sergeants-War-and-other-WWII-Games?src=also_purchased" style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">Armored Combat Scenario's and Additional Rules for a Sergeant's War and other WW2 Games</a></i><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">. The scenario's in this book are quite good, giving intelligent and coherent rules for terrain, and where tanks can get hull down positions etc, even to defining the height of hills.</span><br />
<b></b><i></i><u></u><sub></sub><sup></sup><strike></strike><br />
We ignored the force composition in that scenario and ran with the following (theoretically equal) force from Panzer Miniatures Rules instead;<br />
<br />
<b>Soviets (769 pts)</b><br />
4 x IS2 (496 pts)<br />
3 x T-34/85 (273 pts)<br />
Cohesion/Breakpoint: 4 tanks<br />
<br />
<b>Germans (768 pts) </b><br />
4 x Tiger I (372 pts)<br />
2 x Panther (200 pts)<br />
1 x Ferdinand (111 pts)<br />
1 x Panzer IV/H (85 pts)<br />
Cohesion/Breakpoint: 5 tanks<br />
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This picture shows the Soviet deployment, with tanks either taking up hull down positions of hills, and some being in a gully (the brown felt)</div>
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This next picture shows the German armour arrive on table (looking from the perspective of the Russian player);<br />
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Initially, an IS2 fired on the Ferdinand but could not penetrate the turret from the range it was shooting at. It seemed a bit grim for the Russians, but the IS2's were able to quickly take out 2 Tigers, and then the Panzer IV who advanced to a hull down position on a hill, but to no avail. Meanwhile, the T-34/85's advanced to a gully to get closer ranged shots in, but experienced very hard going against the Panthers and the Ferdinand. Despite being hull down in the gully, they were slowly being battered, with one being KO'd. <span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline !important; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">On the Russian right flank, a Tiger scored a track hit on an IS2, and the crew decided to bail. The Ferdinand then took out another T-34/85. Each side was now 3 tanks down. </span>The position looked like this;</div>
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The remaining damaged T-34/85 managed to load a HVAP round (this is a nice touch in the rules where there is a risk/reward in trying to use better ammo) and took out a Panther. Both sides were now only one loss away from reaching their breaking point.</div>
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The Russians won initiative, letting them shoot first - this was grim for the Germans as 2 IS2's were in short range of the remaining Panther. The first IS2 missed, but the second got a hit. Luckily for the Germans, and against all odds, the shot only damaged the tank. The Panther now had it's turn to shoot. Despite the negative modifiers for the damage, shooting through hedgerows etc, it hit and brewed up the remaining T-34/85, bringing Russian losses up to their break point.</div>
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Any game that finishes this close is good. It easily took less than two hours and just confirmed how good the rules were.</div>
Victorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16503479573321677384noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4245905456624199836.post-40881743085396455272017-11-30T22:14:00.000+11:002017-11-30T22:14:27.352+11:00VSF Diversions with Hordes of the Things<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgI0qLQQwJZS0RQ0rmpBmam5uMwCCnhPjLLEDZ3iX4lZ8E2TazeiyNSJ4KtrPZ17t9PrHT1MKZqsBgag2IZyFp3FJN9bVBKP2nKANbCZzup3eiCXgAjoO1xmmKVjqvn8Uv0c7vOM6pwX95/s1600/hordes-of-the-things-rulebook-cover.png" imageanchor="1" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; clear: right; color: #0066cc; float: right; font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; margin-bottom: 16px; margin-left: 16px; orphans: 2; text-align: center; text-decoration: underline; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgI0qLQQwJZS0RQ0rmpBmam5uMwCCnhPjLLEDZ3iX4lZ8E2TazeiyNSJ4KtrPZ17t9PrHT1MKZqsBgag2IZyFp3FJN9bVBKP2nKANbCZzup3eiCXgAjoO1xmmKVjqvn8Uv0c7vOM6pwX95/s200/hordes-of-the-things-rulebook-cover.png" style="cursor: move;" width="148" /></a><i>Mark Stevens recently sent me some reports of Hordes of the Things games he had, and kindly gave permission to post them onto this blog. I'll put up subsequent battles as separate posts;</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
I
had a free evening recently, so out came my VSF HoTT armies that havenβt seen
action for a long long time.<br />
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="margin: 0px;"><span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">For both games the French and
British faced off at the village of Prosecco, in the Lombardy countryside.
Thereβs obviously a missing back story here, but I canβt find it right now.</span></span></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<b><span style="margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Royal
Bicycle Artillery to the rescue!</span></span></b><span style="margin: 0px;"></span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"></span><br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">The
first battle of Prosecco was a standard 24AP affair. The French were nominally
defenders, but with way better PIPs for most of the game they attacked with
their customary elan.</span></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">The
first photo, taken from an observation balloon behind the French lines shows
the Foreign Legion (3xSh) advancing up the road to take the village. At the
rear of the column is one of the new wonder weapons from Louis Vuitton - a
power armour suit (Pd). To their L the line infantry (4xHd) cover the flank. To
their R the steam tank is a Bh(G), and on the R flank a cuirassier brigade on
the latest βbicyclettesβ (3xKn) also advances. The weird Bh thing on the
baseline is the French stronghold. Note to self: make a plausible VSF
stronghold.</span></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">In
the distance perfidious Albion awaits its inevitable fate, seemingly transfixed
by the sight of the advancing French (or perhaps, a run of terrible PIPs). They
have a thin red line (6xSh) supported by a power armour suit (Hr(G)), troop of
lancers (1xKn), a Sn (great detective & loyal companion), and a battery of
the Royal Bicycle Artillery (1xArt).</span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"></span><br />
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<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="margin: 0px;">The
French pushed forward, taking the village and threatening the British L with
the cuirassiers supported by the Pd & Bh. The British Sn was swept away
(flee move) by the advancing cuirassiers. It played no further part in the
battle, although it was beginning to line up an attack on the steam tank Bh(G)
as the game ended.</span></div>
<br />
The second photo shows first contact (not counting the Sn road-bump), when the Pd
destroyed a company of redcoats, but a cuirassier element was forced to recoil.
I bungled that, it should have been destroyed (beaten by Sh with which it has
just moved into contact) and didnβt realise until too late to change.<br />
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<br />
Anyway, the French piled on the pressure. Casualties were low but positionally the
French had all the advantages. The British desperately used their few PIPS to
hold them off hoping that something would turn up.<br />
<br />
Which of course it did! The last photo shows the final turn of the battle. The
British L has almost collapsed. And although the British Hr(G) and surviving Sh
are giving the French L a hard time, it looks like the Frogs will win by
turning on the exposed British flanks.<span style="margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";"> </span></span><br />
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<br />
And then, the gallant chaps of the Royal Bicycle Artillery saved the day. They took
a shot at the French Bh(G) and the dice in the photo tell the story. The final
score: 4-8G to the Nation of Shopkeepers! The frogs lost a Sh, a Kn, and the
Bh(G). The lobsters lost 2xSh.
<b></b><i></i><u></u><sub></sub><sup></sup><strike></strike><span style="font-family: "calibri";"></span>Victorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16503479573321677384noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4245905456624199836.post-12745689305315474222017-11-18T10:37:00.000+11:002017-11-18T12:34:27.930+11:00Treasure Hunters of Charlemagne<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFUbV3jrJW0-xjOBKFrY-0i69W5pBTZukVRzm756IEbZfDnrBVRNuoecMk5TQKUrK3Tk-kjIiYAS4wOF_a9y8WLr29JulqU2-OgGwbjk9pwqQtEm-IUrP6qNv1Sjo3bPRgM2NuDy9-6YAe/s1600/THOC+Cover.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; clear: right; color: #0066cc; float: right; font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-decoration: underline; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1350" data-original-width="900" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFUbV3jrJW0-xjOBKFrY-0i69W5pBTZukVRzm756IEbZfDnrBVRNuoecMk5TQKUrK3Tk-kjIiYAS4wOF_a9y8WLr29JulqU2-OgGwbjk9pwqQtEm-IUrP6qNv1Sjo3bPRgM2NuDy9-6YAe/s320/THOC+Cover.jpg" width="211" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFUbV3jrJW0-xjOBKFrY-0i69W5pBTZukVRzm756IEbZfDnrBVRNuoecMk5TQKUrK3Tk-kjIiYAS4wOF_a9y8WLr29JulqU2-OgGwbjk9pwqQtEm-IUrP6qNv1Sjo3bPRgM2NuDy9-6YAe/s1600/THOC+Cover.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a>The latest adventure from Ganesha Games in the <b>Four Against Darkness (</b>4AD) series is <a href="http://www.ganeshagames.net/product_info.php?cPath=1_55&products_id=342"><i>Treasure</i> <i>Hunters of Charlemagne</i></a>. I wrote this supplement, and thought it might be a good idea to say a little about it...</div>
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From cover to cover, it is 44 pages, and requires two of the core books to play, the original <i><a href="http://www.ganeshagames.net/product_info.php?cPath=1_55&products_id=295">Four Against Darkness</a></i> and <i><a href="http://www.ganeshagames.net/product_info.php?cPath=1_55&products_id=333">Four Against the Abyss</a></i>, written by Andrea Sfiligoi. The reason is that the party starts at 5th level, so all the rules in <i>Four Against the Abyss</i> come into play, such as expert skills, madness, lycanthropy, hirelings etc. I really love the additional things <i>Four Against the Abyss</i> brings to 4AD, and this adventure has been developed with those rules in mind.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtbp1N-ycDIgdTiDKREZz-X-wyblf7w2qCp35Jk-OsRGJVLLLQkunM3Zq4wJZsPR5TrvRNxnSpoFQXIO896Telqmp1EWd9uaSsImVeR3wkHzBUewzjgZ9TtWW1P29OO6eZ3Wy4vZM-CSbo/s1600/THOC+ebook+44.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; clear: left; color: #0066cc; float: left; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; orphans: 2; text-align: center; text-decoration: underline; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1350" data-original-width="900" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtbp1N-ycDIgdTiDKREZz-X-wyblf7w2qCp35Jk-OsRGJVLLLQkunM3Zq4wJZsPR5TrvRNxnSpoFQXIO896Telqmp1EWd9uaSsImVeR3wkHzBUewzjgZ9TtWW1P29OO6eZ3Wy4vZM-CSbo/s320/THOC+ebook+44.jpg" width="213" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtbp1N-ycDIgdTiDKREZz-X-wyblf7w2qCp35Jk-OsRGJVLLLQkunM3Zq4wJZsPR5TrvRNxnSpoFQXIO896Telqmp1EWd9uaSsImVeR3wkHzBUewzjgZ9TtWW1P29OO6eZ3Wy4vZM-CSbo/s1600/THOC+ebook+44.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><i>Treasure Hunters of Charlemagne</i> is set in Europe in the late 8th Century. You use a party of 4 characters which can be of any class, except for elves, dwarves and halflings. Despite being in a real world setting, it is outright fantasy, so you still have wizards with all their spells, clerics, barbarians, rogues, warriors and swashbucklers. <br />
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Inspiration is drawn from mythology of the time and works such as chanson de geste. The world is full of mythical beasts, enchanters, and magic items. It is also full of deceit and intrigue, some of which makes its way into this adventure.</div>
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The game takes place on a map of Europe. You decide which areas to travel to. Each area has its own fixed encounter and background, so you have a lot of control in the path taken and developing the unfolding story. The campaign is not meant to be scripted, there is no one correct answer. Many different paths that can be taken to achieve the end goal.<br />
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Random encounters happen as the party travels around Europe from place to place, from things jumping out of forests and mountains, to bustling towns. The game is meant to play like an "edited highlights reel", where sometimes you travel without incident, at others all manner of things start to go wrong.</div>
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Towns are very important, it is here where a party gets to recover and engage in other activities; there might be a jousting tourney for warriors, thieving opportunities for rogues, wizards might try to track down ancient books for spells and clerics pray in a monastery. You might also bump into interesting people and hire some help. Things can also go terrible wrong here, such as characters getting into drunken brawls and even be arrested.<br />
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Another aspect I wanted to model was party unity, or fellowship. Unlike a one-off dungeon bash, here the game could represent many months of travel, so keeping the party motivated becomes an issue. The party will face tests of its fellowship, that could see a character storm off!<br />
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The ultimate aim is for the party to find clues, survive all the various challenges, including political and other intrigues that may be thrown its way to recover the spear of destiny and deliver it to Charlemagne. No doubt that once this happens, new chapters will be added to the chanson de geste!</div>
Victorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16503479573321677384noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4245905456624199836.post-68813973154643205342017-06-03T14:56:00.000+10:002017-06-03T18:53:48.798+10:00Disposable Heroes 2: Somewhere in the Ardennes<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZJxyuR6DB_ycXpNGQ8CoeitIpGlN6oZ-B4akKpEzgpRzQNL4Pe1tY4_FIiCTyZxyTtsLI_3k5PBPOF96MwWtQTU6ka1HSq-1DIK-t8y5cai3ZF9Aa-JE_VGY4GL9kbjhAMg_TZZOR02LD/s1600/DH2_Cover.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="524" data-original-width="400" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZJxyuR6DB_ycXpNGQ8CoeitIpGlN6oZ-B4akKpEzgpRzQNL4Pe1tY4_FIiCTyZxyTtsLI_3k5PBPOF96MwWtQTU6ka1HSq-1DIK-t8y5cai3ZF9Aa-JE_VGY4GL9kbjhAMg_TZZOR02LD/s200/DH2_Cover.jpg" width="152" /></a>This year I painted up a platoon of 28mm US forces so they can be used in some 1 to 1 scale gaming. After having tried some other rulesets at the <a href="http://www.sutherlandshiregamers.org/">Sutherland Shire Gamers</a>, we are starting use Disposable Heroes 2 (DH2)which has only recently been released.<br />
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One thing about playing games at a club, is that there can often be more than one player per side, and it is good if the rules can handle this. We found the Chain of Command rules struggled somewhat in this regard, as one side had to wait until all opposing players made their moves, with a possibility that, due to lucky dice rolling, those players could get even more multiple moves.<br />
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With DH2, each side instead alternates activations, which makes the game far more engaging with multiple players a side. Each activation gives a unit 3 tactical points, most commonly each tactical point is spent either shooting or moving, and tactical points can be shared. You can also activate the same unit all the time, so it makes for some interesting tactical choices.<br />
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In the most recent game we played, we had Rafael running his panzergrenadiers, and myself with Stephen running the US, using 1,000 points for each force. This gave us roughly 10 or so units side. The US ran a HQ with bazooka team (2 units), three rifle squads with AT grenades (6 units as each squad has two teams), 2 Shermans, and an 80mm mortar that was kept off table. The Germans ran a HQ with LMG's, 2 infantry squads (with panzerfausts, AT & HE grenades), a panzerschrek team, a sniper team, an 8cm mortar (off table), a PAK40 75mm L46, and a Stug IIIG. The table looked as follows;<br />
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Initially, there are no units on the table. Each side gets 5 deployment areas, and units are preassigned to each, showing up within 6" of each as they are activated. Both sides used their off table mortars to do a barrage on a single enemy deployment area, but both failed to hit anything. The germans deployed a team (unpainted π’) that moved onto a hill. The US had an infantry squad get up to a hedgerow and get the first fire! (This is quite a tense mechanism - whoever shoots first has the ability to really inflict damage - it is called "all hell breaks loose", as both sides know the fight is on!). It does create suspense for the start of the game, and there is a cat and mouse game involved as to who gets it first. The BAR team went ahead, but with some really bad dice rolling, only inflicted one casualty. This seemed to set the tone for the US, who in general, couldn't hit a barn door throughout he game.... The scene is below;<br />
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Eventually, we had more units deploy on board. On the right flank, a US squad took a ruined building, but then came under fire from some MG42's, and a Stug IIIG. This was probably a tactical mistake on my part, as I moved the US team too far forward without support. I had to throw in a Sherman to try to counter the German tank threat as below;<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinOhGpl3NFZ-4YlM70iYuPN85r1xQcDzEiAZfLAcTgUoighXJPwbXpD7aJzAhSiDgdeF2JqF5iTHrKDKjBipB4cY2FEccA7Tpl1vKhtl_VgPdkFuPAEMlJMOkiVpnQT2GJ2nWnE7qYucGP/s1600/5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1036" data-original-width="1000" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinOhGpl3NFZ-4YlM70iYuPN85r1xQcDzEiAZfLAcTgUoighXJPwbXpD7aJzAhSiDgdeF2JqF5iTHrKDKjBipB4cY2FEccA7Tpl1vKhtl_VgPdkFuPAEMlJMOkiVpnQT2GJ2nWnE7qYucGP/s200/5.jpg" width="192" /></a>As it turned out, the US teams got supressed and were starting to fall back to regroup. The Germans used a push activation (this is a bonus activation you can get if you pay for better training) to charge the infantry into the building. The Germans won the fight, but only had 3 figures at the end of it, so the hand to hand was quite brutal. The Sherman tried to shoot into the ruins, only managing to inflict a couple of supressions, and then used a push activation to move in front of the Stug and shoot. The Sherman acquired and hit, but failed to penetrate the armour. In reply, the Stug rolled almost perfect dice and blew up the Sherman. Things were starting to look bad for the US.<br />
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On the right flank, the US brought out the second Sherman, but the road was covered by an off table German 75mm anti tank gun - quite luckily, the Sherman survived being shot at a few times. In response, the US off table mortar put down a smoke screen to cut the beaten zone;<br />
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Eventually, the Stug now moved across and took a pot shot at the Sherman, failing to acquire. The Sherman shot back, using a normal activation and push activation to shoot, missing on all attempts. The Sherman's luck ran out as the Stug came in for another direct hit, scoring its second kill.<br />
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At this point (we were about two thirds of the way through the second turn), it was decided the US position became untenable and promptly withdrew.<br />
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Overall, we found the DH2 rules worked well. There was some infantry shooting, but I think as happens in WW2 games, once tanks show up, they steal the action. There is a learning curve with tactics, and we will probably house rule a few things. One thing is that we will probably use the lists in the v1 army books, eg from the "Blood & Guts" and "Angriff" supplements, as they are far more extensive than those given in the main rule bookVictorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16503479573321677384noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4245905456624199836.post-71566046002552724302017-05-27T16:29:00.002+10:002017-05-27T16:29:27.158+10:00Rogue Stars Skirmish<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNMrfq6jqHvQjZNHpaO2C6ds3a2OzHBpG3S8nSgm3DhNHECq3Oqa5-18QvSECuLWPy4cOX3sL5ffnrUgdcQJXOlkLa8GqR2BRcaxNRBIutcg0nO2sShTR9HLvXNNn0h9Y2OcLiyPr0w7GU/s1600/pic2900451.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="404" data-original-width="300" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNMrfq6jqHvQjZNHpaO2C6ds3a2OzHBpG3S8nSgm3DhNHECq3Oqa5-18QvSECuLWPy4cOX3sL5ffnrUgdcQJXOlkLa8GqR2BRcaxNRBIutcg0nO2sShTR9HLvXNNn0h9Y2OcLiyPr0w7GU/s200/pic2900451.jpg" width="148" /></a></div>
After a bit of a hiatus from sci-fi skirmish gaming, I had a game of Rogue Stars, using the WoTC Star Wars miniatures with Martin at the <a href="http://www.sutherlandshiregamers.org/">Sutherland Shire Gamers</a>. Rogue Stars are a very interesting set of rules, as they are a complete revamp of the original Songs of Blades and Heroes activation mechanic.<br />
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They use a d20 rather than a d6, have increased interactivity with reaction moves, and you can continue with your turn, even if you roll multiple failures. A stress mechanism ensures, however, that you cannot continue indefinitely, and the opponent will eventually seize initiative and start their turn.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaRW1GdlK4qxE8RW_BieOO6o48ORaBFi2Syju87Kf_ql9R-A1R2pxhO7Sa2CZkgOZ-_A-y55y1bPPDJTeFFG3h6ajrHAQil64TOt2qGew4WEKTk-JfUFvXnkdXoUbDGOQii_XUZ2Y4HPHg/s1600/2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="750" data-original-width="1000" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaRW1GdlK4qxE8RW_BieOO6o48ORaBFi2Syju87Kf_ql9R-A1R2pxhO7Sa2CZkgOZ-_A-y55y1bPPDJTeFFG3h6ajrHAQil64TOt2qGew4WEKTk-JfUFvXnkdXoUbDGOQii_XUZ2Y4HPHg/s320/2.jpg" width="320" /></a>The two sides were a force of Star Cops (Imperial stormtroopers with some Bespin security) against Pirates (a rag tag force lead by Lando). An abduction mission was rolled up, so the stormtroopers had to capture Lando. The setup is to the left.<br />
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Lando is in a bar with a couple of gang members, a wookie and a Rodian armed with an assault rifle. The building was already surrounded by two Bespin cops. The stormtroopers were still on the baseline, and a couple more pirates were in other buildings.<br />
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Unfortunately for the pirates, a Bespin cop got a clear surprise shot on the wookie, who failed to react. This caused a wound and a crippling of the shooting arm.<br />
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However, this was as good as it got for the space cops, as the Rodian with the assault rifle put the Bespin trooper OOA.<br />
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The stormtroopers, who were moving up in support, suffered badly on the morale roll.<br />
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The Rodian was able to put another OOA (shooting first) allowing the pirates to escape off the table, and Lando being able to escape.<br />
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We played a second game, this time it was a Destroy Property mission, where the stormtroopers had to blow up 6 different structures. Interestingly, on the location roll, it was the defenders home planet, giving the pirates a bonus to morale, so the narrative fit nicely. This time around, the stormtroopers won, with the image below showing some of the burning structures.<br />
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The ruleset is quite a detailed, and will take a while to figure out the nuances. However, we found the game to be quite good, and are thinking of trying it as a campaign, where characters can develop over time</div>
Victorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16503479573321677384noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4245905456624199836.post-87839447936025597042017-04-26T21:01:00.000+10:002017-04-26T21:01:39.919+10:00Leptis Magna Season 2, Episode 14 (Finale)<span style="color: #38761d;"><span style="color: #0b5394;"><span style="color: black;">Following on from the </span><a href="http://victusvenatus.blogspot.com.au/2017/04/leptis-magna-season-2-episode-13.html">last episode</a><span style="color: black;">, we carry onto the next round. My posts are in </span><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: small;">blue</span><span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: small;">, Marks are in </span><span style="color: #38761d; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: small;">green</span><span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: small;">, and any post-editing commentary are in </span><span style="color: #990000; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: small;">red</span><span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: small;">. The gladiator rules used are </span><a href="http://hordesofthethings.blogspot.com.au/p/free-stuff.html"><span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: small;">Munera Sine Missione</span></a><span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: small;"> - note that this version may have differences to the current version. Each round will be posted as a weekly episode.</span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #38761d;">The Legate and his guards & entourage will enter on the street at bottom L and follow it around the corner to exit at top C. The famous Markets he is to visit are just off-table there.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #38761d;">The next photo below shows the situation at the end of move 1. The white marker shows Macer, surrounded by his bodyguards and entourage in a formation that ensures no one can get into contact with him. The red marker at top is Senex who has entered the scene over the footbridge. The other two red markers show (a) Quadratus and his dog loitering in an alleyway and (b) Flaviana and two of her "sisters" trying for customers at a street corner.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #38761d;">Senex rolled well in turn 2 and moved to position himself behind the Legate's party, seeking an opportunity to strike. It looked as if he would have to kill an entourage member to get to Macer, unless some lucky chance arose. The main problem for Macer and his group is that they are only able to move at S speed if they want to keep their formation, because of the jostling crowds.</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;"><br />Luckily for Senex an opportunity arose right away, when in turn 3 one of the entourage members rolled a turnover, separating both of them from Macer and the two guards who moved on ahead. Senex's luck held when his turn came: he rolled 3 actions. He moved up and struck at Macer from behind. However Macer was somehow able to dodge the blow, or perhaps Senex got cold feet. I dare say it's lucky Quadratus did not see the incident or he would have used some choice words about incompetence! I gave Senex an ambush bonus, but still not enough. Because of the total surprise factor I allowed Senex to run off for his third action without facing a free hack. He ducked down a small alleyway. But now Macer knows there is a plot afoot.</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;"><br />Macer tries regrouping his party before moving on, not because he dismisses the plot, but because he knows there is a picket of legionaries on guard duty at the market gates, not too far ahead (just off table). Once there he will be safe. But his entourage seems to have gotten lost in the crowd and continues to lag behind, so he and his loyal guards push on without waiting.</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;"><br />The next photo shows the situation at the end of turn 4. Macers party is split in two, with himself and the bodyguards pushing on ahead and the entourage trailing behind. Senex has rolled well for actions again and does a rat-run along some alleys to position himself near Quadratus and Flaviana, at a spot where the Legate will have to pass.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #38761d;">And the next photo shows a view down the street as we approach the critical moment. Macer can be seen accompanied by his two guards (with red and yellow shields), and further back behind them his lagging entourage members. Flaviana and her sisters are doing their best to distract passers-by on the side-street corner, and Senex can be seen next to them (with the white tunic and raised sword). Quadratus and Rufus are also in the side street, just out of camera shot.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #38761d;">In turn 5 Macer and the guards come within distract range of Flaviana, while his entourage further splinters when one of them rolls a turnover. The conspirators bide their time waiting to see how the distract affects their target's next turn. Turn 6: Hells bells! No effect, both guards and Legate walk right past the alluring Flaviana and the other exotic dancers, without a second glance. Who would have thought it.</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;"><br />But it is "now or never" time. Quadratus steps in to try and create an opportunity. He moves closer to the guards and unleashes Rufus to attack the nearest guard. Rufus jumps on the unlucky guard, savaging him and he falls to the ground. Senex rolls three actions and moves in for a power blow on Macer. I did not give Senex the ambush bonus this time, but he beats Macer anyway, who falls, wounded. Quadratus then attempts to move in the finish the job but is hindered by passing civilians (rolls insufficient actions). </span><br />
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<span style="color: #38761d;">Turn 7, and the Legate's party looks in trouble: one guard and the Legate himself are on the ground with attackers in contact. The other guard rolls low and is unable to intervene. The mauled guard rolls better, stands up and counter attacks and Rufus falls. Macer rolls three actions. He stands up and attacks Senex with a power blow, but without result. The entourage are not coming to help, they roll turnover again and are apparently lost in the throng.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #38761d;">Senex also rolls three actions and attacks Macer with a power blow but Macer manages to fell him! Rufus also gets back in the fight and continues the fight with the guard. Quadratus is still unable to intervene.</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;"><br />Turn 8: everything goes pear-shaped for the conspirators. Macer kills the fallen Senex. The two guards get together and kill Rufus. A picket of legionaries, alerted by the commotion, emerge from the markets and move at the double towards the scene. Even the long-lost entourage get their bearings again and move up.</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;"><br />All Flaviana and Quadratus can do is go their separate ways, slinking back into the alleyways before any attention is drawn to them.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #0b5394;">Quite a bad turn of events! Looks like it all came down to that last blow of Senex which completely failedβ¦<br /><br />A bitter end to the campaign, Quadratus will miss his dog, and Androcles falls out of favour with the procurator, having failed at the assassination. One question that no doubt distracted Senex is why Flaviana failed to help, was she secretly paid more by the Legatus all along??</span><br />
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<span style="color: #0b5394;"><b><span style="color: black;">A</span><span style="color: black;">FTERTHOUGHTS</span></b></span></div>
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<span style="color: #0b5394;">It seemed like a close run thing with your description, but did it favour the legate too much? One concern I had was the βLuckyβ trait on the Legatus, in that a good hit could be undone. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #38761d;">It was tilted to the Legate but that was in keeping with the somewhat amateurish nature of the assassination attempt. If Garutianus had been a serious conspirator he would have arranged multiple assassins at the least.</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span> <span style="color: #38761d;">In the end I did not use Macer's "lucky" ability, although it was tempting when he was knocked down. I decided to reserve it until needed to avoid total disaster, which it never was.</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span> <span style="color: #38761d;">On reflection I think the failure of the first attempt by Senex was because Macer was wearing armour under his toga.</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span> <span style="color: #38761d;">Flaviana was genuinely trying to help ... the problem was that after Senex's first botched attempt, Macer and his guards were far too wary to stop and enjoy the show the girls were putting on.</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span> <span style="color: #38761d;">I feel Androcles will be in a spot of bother, as the body of Senex may be traceable to his ludus (through information provided by the ubiquitous Samasu and the other Macer) and he will then have inconvenient questions to answer. The Legate could then confiscate the ludus and give it to his brother. He had better leave town now before Garutianus has him arrested and "disappears" him to prevent him confessing.</span> <br />
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<span style="color: #0b5394;">Oh well, the procurator got it right in the end, as mentioned by Tacitus in his annals: (histories book 1, chapter 7)</span><br />
<span style="color: #0b5394;"><br /></span> <span style="color: #0b5394;">"It happened too that the executions of Clodius Macer and Fonteius Capito were reported at this same time. Macer, who had unquestionably been making trouble in Africa, had been executed by Trebonius Garutianus, the imperial agent, at Galba's orders."</span><br />
<span style="color: #0b5394;"><br /></span> <span style="color: #0b5394;">Multiple assassins being present (such as JFK conspiracies or the <a href="https://boardgamegeek.com/boardgame/147930/king-assassins">King and Assassins</a> game) would have been interesting, but think that this would have been more fun if the fight was moderated (or controlled) by an umpire, so that Senex would not know of their existence. They probably were there, but Quadratus fled before seeing them :) Androcles might get some credit from Garutianus for creating the opening...</span><br />
<span style="color: #0b5394;"><br /></span> <span style="color: #0b5394;">I was worried it would be too tough, the intention is that the gladiator does not meet his end during an "inbetween" action. However, it does follow the strange trend we have had that once the first gladiator goes, the second follows shortly after. And it was a spectacular finale!</span></div>
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<br />Victorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16503479573321677384noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4245905456624199836.post-65132499112442680132017-04-19T20:42:00.000+10:002017-04-26T21:02:16.699+10:00Leptis Magna Season 2, Episode 13<span style="color: #0b5394;"><span style="color: black;">Following on from the </span><a href="http://victusvenatus.blogspot.com.au/2017/04/leptis-magna-season-2-episode-12.html">last episode</a><span style="color: black;">, we carry onto the next round. My posts are in </span><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: small;">blue</span><span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: small;">, Marks are in </span><span style="color: #38761d; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: small;">green</span><span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: small;">, and any post-editing commentary are in </span><span style="color: #990000; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: small;">red</span><span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: small;">. The gladiator rules used are </span><a href="http://hordesofthethings.blogspot.com.au/p/free-stuff.html"><span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: small;">Munera Sine Missione</span></a><span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: small;"> - note that this version may have differences to the current version. Each round will be posted as a weekly episode.</span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #0b5394;">First off β Bookkeeping! Senex last tally was 34 gold, since he has won 10 gold then 14 gold taking the total to 58 gold. He gets paid 14 gold for the boxing (1 for each wound!), but spends 6 in debauched pleasures (you did say he was carousing again) β leaving him with a total of 66 gold. In a rather unfortunate side effect of the fight, Senex suffers some facial scarring, making him somewhat less βattractiveβ. (note: he lost 6 from 9 wounds, so I gave it a 4 in 6 chance to scar, and rolled a 2). He was quite concerned as to what Flaviana would think of him now. This seemed to give Quadratus some sort of perverse pleasure, who commented βNo longer the pretty boy, eh?β.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #0b5394;">It was noted that the procurator, Trebonius Garutianus, was clearly impressed with the efforts of Senex, nodding approval a few times throughout the match. Though, as mentioned in your description, the discerning judges amongst the onlookers thought Subar was too rash in his choice of fighting methodology. At the end, there was an animated discussion with the procurator and Androcles. The next day, Androcles called Senex in for a discussionβ¦.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMwoOemYeAiR93-EWe_YckDA5PzbVW93907iz0gup-PX29sMS2ZKhUUBkpMumIOxc199ku2KJG1lvDeBPJ9u75L_AlXGHy-b-R1QNtOm6s2UsTg80oqNCpwrHjhVa_KibLBmMXv_aC7kwd/s1600/Comic_History_of_Rome_Table_10_Cicero_denouncing_Catiline.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="251" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMwoOemYeAiR93-EWe_YckDA5PzbVW93907iz0gup-PX29sMS2ZKhUUBkpMumIOxc199ku2KJG1lvDeBPJ9u75L_AlXGHy-b-R1QNtOm6s2UsTg80oqNCpwrHjhVa_KibLBmMXv_aC7kwd/s400/Comic_History_of_Rome_Table_10_Cicero_denouncing_Catiline.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="color: #0b5394;">Androcles spoke a lot about politics, throwing in emperor Galbaβs name, but most of it went over Senexβs head. He was only able to gather that the Legatus, a dangerous egomaniac, was to be killed, and that Senex, a now hardened fighter, was the chosen assassin. The Legatus was due to leave with his legion in the coming few days, but is anticipated to visit the famous markets of Leptis Magna. Senex, without armour, and carrying a concealed sword, was to sneak up and deliver a mortal wound. There is a big payout if Senex succeeds.</span><br />
<span style="color: #0b5394;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #0b5394;">I was thinking you could run this with Songs of Shadows and Dust. Using the lists (starting page 36), the Legatus is a Militia Officer (95 points β page 36), and he is flanked by two of his infamous German bodyguard, who try to stay in base to base contact with him (Foreign Bodyguard 42 points each, page 37) for 179 points total. Senex counts as a Thraex (50 points, page 38). If Senex comes under attack, Quadratus (Retired Gladiator 54 points, page 36) will show up at any location with Rufus (Pet Dog 36 points page 38) to save him β total 140 points. Iβm thinking it would be like that βKings and Assassinsβ game β the Legatus starts on one side of the board and if he exits the other side, he survives. Not sure how many moves this should be, maybe 4 or 5? Both sides of the table are flanked with market stalls, and there are vignettes everywhere. Senex can replace any vignette to attack. As an option, if Flaviana is paid 5 gold (from Senexβs money, as this would be on his own initiative), she can also be on the board at any location (treat as Famous Courtesan, 38 points, page 37). She might be able to distract the German bodyguardsβ¦ The Legatus has to die before he exits the board.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #38761d;">As you can see from the photo below, the game is all ready to go. Now for the hard part - finding time to play!</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRvgdUVhl24-eqFZ_AfgyM5w1eu8IbEcGau26Zc88EqaTBWIjq_kM1imVsb6jdPDMdtAa1BKIX50ivx5T0fG9nSXJreRxhyTtxLketVib0ddfAlpkauzWJ0KOK0Dp39utuMZiy5an46Pda/s1600/1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRvgdUVhl24-eqFZ_AfgyM5w1eu8IbEcGau26Zc88EqaTBWIjq_kM1imVsb6jdPDMdtAa1BKIX50ivx5T0fG9nSXJreRxhyTtxLketVib0ddfAlpkauzWJ0KOK0Dp39utuMZiy5an46Pda/s400/1.jpg" width="298" /></a></div>
<span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #38761d;">I have used a small board, only 600x900 and set up one of the main entry roads (and associated alleyways) into the famous Leptis Magna markets which L Clodius Macer is due to visit. His party will enter at lower R and follow the street around the corner to exit at top C if he survives. The markets are assumed to be just off-table at top of photo.</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #38761d;">There is the usual street traffic, perhaps less than you would expect in such a situation. My idea at present is not to move these figures, nor count them as normal SSD bystanders who could get involved, but instead to make them obstacles the characters have to move around (or through at reduced speed). We'll see how that works out.</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #38761d;">I have included Flaviana in the characters per your suggestion.</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #38761d;">I have also given Macer an entourage of two people as well as his guards. A VIP like him would always be accompanied by flunkies, toadies, clients etc. They will count as civilians except have no special rules. His chief political adviser, and "a lady not his wife ...". They can be used to accidentally get in the way of anyone approaching Macer.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #38761d;"><a href="http://victusvenatus.blogspot.com.au/2017/04/leptis-magna-season-2-episode-14-finale.html">NEXT EPISODE</a></span>Victorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16503479573321677384noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4245905456624199836.post-91098946696390521612017-04-12T20:20:00.001+10:002017-04-19T20:43:18.324+10:00Leptis Magna Season 2, Episode 12<span style="color: #0b5394;"><span style="color: #38761d;"><span style="color: black;">Following on from the </span><a href="http://victusvenatus.blogspot.com.au/2017/04/leptis-magna-season-2-episode-11.html">last episode</a><span style="color: black;">, we carry onto the next round. My posts are in </span><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: small;">blue</span><span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: small;">, Marks are in </span><span style="color: #38761d; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: small;">green</span><span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: small;">, and any post-editing commentary are in </span><span style="color: #990000; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: small;">red</span><span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: small;">. The gladiator rules used are </span><a href="http://hordesofthethings.blogspot.com.au/p/free-stuff.html"><span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: small;">Munera Sine Missione</span></a><span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: small;"> - note that this version may have differences to the current version. Each round will be posted as a weekly episode.</span></span></span><span style="color: #0b5394;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #0b5394;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #0b5394;">Such is the fickle fate mortals face. On the blow inflicted by Kemsa that took Asiaticus to 1 strength, the small silver amulet shaped as a caduceus was dislodged from Asiaticusβs belt, falling onto the sands. Did the loss of this cause him distraction? Or did it mean that Asiaticus lost protection? The item was not on Asiaticus when he was dragged through a corridor, his brother cultists noticed this and thought that Asiaticus forgot to wear it, and suffered divine punishment as a result. Quadratus, looking upon the scene said βI picked it from the start! He had a lucky run against incompetents, but once up against a skilled opponent, it all came to nothing!β</span><br />
<span style="color: #0b5394;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWUfiVpAaLx2_NcbMdndzZM4PWA65moBruilGKtsN_FirxQaVazUBco-Itwuvf9GIc7KTaeTqtoYM_muA6DM5VtYjnwWNYaPIoYZL5bGNhYGudf6PpvXjCijdxTl3sNk8pXvvmnYDcYV5y/s1600/Legate1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWUfiVpAaLx2_NcbMdndzZM4PWA65moBruilGKtsN_FirxQaVazUBco-Itwuvf9GIc7KTaeTqtoYM_muA6DM5VtYjnwWNYaPIoYZL5bGNhYGudf6PpvXjCijdxTl3sNk8pXvvmnYDcYV5y/s200/Legate1.jpg" width="124" /></a><b><i><u><sub><sup><strike><br /></strike></sup></sub></u></i></b></span>
<span style="color: #0b5394;">The house of Androcles did not fare too well. Bion won his fight, killing his opponent, and became Primus Palus. The Legatus, standing near the magistrate, whispered something into his ear. The magistrate, looking rather pale, awarded the rudis to Bion. In shock, Bion had to accept it, and he was directed out of the arena as a free man. Quadratus muttered a number of expletives. As the primus Palus position was vacant, it was instead awarded to a gladiator from the ludus of Macer. Shaking his fists towards the podium, Quadratus yelled out more expletives.</span><br />
<span style="color: #0b5394;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #0b5394;">It was seen that the dashing final move by Senex was that of a skilled gladiator. Senex wins 14 gold and is able to gain another skill. Interestingly, the coinage given to Senex was newly minted and bore the face of the Legatus, Lucius Clodius Macer in place of the emperor. It is clear that he was now in complete control of Africa. </span><br />
<span style="color: #0b5394;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #0b5394;">After some weeks, Androcles is going to have an important guest arriving, the procurator Trebonius Garutianus. It is said that the procurator is very fond of cestus fighting. As is the custom in these private fights, the guest chooses the fighters, and, on the big day, all the gladiators lined up. The procurator, a very intense individual, chooses Subar, a new recruit of Androcles, and Senex. βWatch outβ Quadratus warns Senex, βthis might ruin your pretty boy looksβ.</span><br />
<span style="color: #0b5394;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #0b5394;">Use your cestus fighter figures and the tiled βprivateβ fight board you have (or a hex board, doesnβt matter). Cestus Rules: All MSM rules apply except:</span><br />
<ul>
<li><span style="color: #0b5394;">Treat the cestus as a normal weapon except when attacking, roll a d4 instead of a d6. (defender still rolls a d6, all other rolls are still d6).</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #0b5394;">A βdouble 1β event signifies cestus strapping coming loose. The gladiator needs to spend 2AP to correct, or they are limited to just one attack each turn.</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #0b5394;">Gladiators cannot use any skills gained in arena fights (each has zero skill level).</span></li>
</ul>
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<span style="color: #0b5394;">Let me know the outcome. There is no appeal to the crowd, the loser will survive.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #38761d;">Despite Quadratus's cynical warning, Senex was confident going into the fight. He had been watching Subar in the few weeks since Androcles had purchased him, and saw nothing particularly impressive. And also his visits to the red light district, watching Hannibal and the other pit fighters, had given him some insight into such matters.</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #38761d;">The match was held in the local ruined Carthaginian temple, a site convenient and often used for such private entertainments by the elite of Leptis Magna.</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #38761d;">The image below shows the starting lineup, with Senex at the top and Subar at the bottom. Androcles had been careful to lay on plenty of refreshments for Garutianus and his entourage, you can see the amphorae and a slave circulating with a food platter. The guards are also wearing their best armour which has been carefully polished and carrying special matching shields that Androcles has rented for the day.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #38761d;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiV65yvbUSRguy0QnFtSF5mTOYpy7F5giEXGcSFVO4PpPCpke6YMKw0x62dFx3JWd_KXQx5EFIbwImLKIpAVy75wDUWk0N9XZcojv7BsYdKfx2h9cE2prwMG8HujbZ9GEHxl-b1kX5sLeVo/s1600/boxing.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiV65yvbUSRguy0QnFtSF5mTOYpy7F5giEXGcSFVO4PpPCpke6YMKw0x62dFx3JWd_KXQx5EFIbwImLKIpAVy75wDUWk0N9XZcojv7BsYdKfx2h9cE2prwMG8HujbZ9GEHxl-b1kX5sLeVo/s400/boxing.jpg" width="361" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="color: #38761d;">Senex started with a Strength of 9, Subar with 7. As the fight got under way, Subar was quicker off the mark, but the more experienced Senex got in the first blow, which Subar managed to duck. His counterpunch was a real haymaker, knocking Senex down, but Subar was unable to follow through (not enough AP for a second attack with a disadv weapon). Senex got back to his feet easily enough and quickly hit Subar for 2 damage. Subar chose to back off and work around to a flank, but this tactic almost failed disastrously as Senex (rolling 6AP and having +1AP in his profile) was able to turn and hit with both fists. Somehow Subar was able to parry both blows, showing an unexpected level of skill. </span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #38761d;">The fight continued with neither man landing a serious blow, and fatigues began to build up against both of them. Both were following defensive tactics, trying to keep a little distance and waiting for a really good AP roll. Subar was the first to catch the wave with this, launching a side attack that caused 3 damage to Senex, and suffering 1 damage himself when Senex responded.</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #38761d;">Fatigue was becoming a problem for Subar by this point, he had 4 Strength left and 4 fatigues. I rolled to see what his strategy would be: all-out assault, continue as before, or try to lose the fatigues: he opted to continue as before - a sure sign of inexperience in the minds of many of the audience.</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #38761d;">The decision soon paid off though, as another high AP score enable Subar to make another side attack on Senex and caused another 3 damage. At this point Senex had 3 Strength left and 4 fatigues (exhausted), while Subar had 4 Strength and 5 fatigues (also exhausted). Subar was a tougher nut to crack than he had expected, thought Senex.</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #38761d;">As it happened, both fighters then rolled a sequence of low AP, making it hard for them to achieve anything, so both caught their breaths and shed some fatigue.</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #38761d;">Now no longer exhausted, Subar was the first to start attacking again, although with no success this time. It was Senex who was able to manoeuvre the next side attack, causing 2 damage and tipping Subar back to exhausted. He was able to try one attack, but it failed and increased his exhaustion.</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #38761d;">The initiative was now with Senex, if he could make use of it. First another side attack knocked Subar down, and because he was so exhausted he was not able to get up again. Then Senex was able to finish the fight by forcing Subar to submit [took him to 0 Stength].</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #38761d;">Senex: lost 6/9, Vincit<br />Subar: lost 8/7, Missio</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #38761d;">Androcles anxiously awaited the post match comments from Garutianus and the other guests: had he put on a good enough show to please these snobbish Romans?</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #38761d;"><a href="http://victusvenatus.blogspot.com.au/2017/04/leptis-magna-season-2-episode-13.html">NEXT EPISODE</a></span>Victorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16503479573321677384noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4245905456624199836.post-58942229453792403822017-04-05T22:27:00.000+10:002017-04-19T20:35:43.494+10:00Leptis Magna Season 2, Episode 11<span style="color: #38761d;"><span style="color: black;">Following on from the </span><a href="http://victusvenatus.blogspot.com.au/2017/03/leptis-magna-season-2-episode-10.html">last episode</a><span style="color: black;">, we carry onto the next round. My posts are in </span><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: small;">blue</span><span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: small;">, Marks are in </span><span style="color: #38761d; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: small;">green</span><span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: small;">, and any post-editing commentary are in </span><span style="color: #990000; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: small;">red</span><span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: small;">. The gladiator rules used are </span><a href="http://hordesofthethings.blogspot.com.au/p/free-stuff.html"><span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: small;">Munera Sine Missione</span></a><span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: small;"> - note that this version may have differences to the current version. Each round will be posted as a weekly episode.</span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="color: #38761d;">At the pre-Games pep talk Androcles emphasised to his men how much it would mean to the ludus if they were successful on this big day. He appealed to their sense of pride in their school. After he left, Quadratus said a few words that were more to the point. "You can die and be quickly forgotten, or you can win and gain wealth and glory. Let's see if you have got it in you! I have my doubts, prove me wrong."</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #38761d;">After this warm up, here is how our protagonists went ...</span><br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #38761d;"><b>SENEX v DIOMEDES</b></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6zZGEEr0bInB025abzdJyzaZvmZv1uB1-82fMSMw_xsYVlbvfFM_0WYulBsXLWyCyDlItb9r1D0zbDnqNDSuG1dwGwro_PaMriysDUV2OUdY8eoFT30ZIpqP8eY2AWH6xYOauN2W84y7M/s1600/SenexVDiomedes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="242" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6zZGEEr0bInB025abzdJyzaZvmZv1uB1-82fMSMw_xsYVlbvfFM_0WYulBsXLWyCyDlItb9r1D0zbDnqNDSuG1dwGwro_PaMriysDUV2OUdY8eoFT30ZIpqP8eY2AWH6xYOauN2W84y7M/s400/SenexVDiomedes.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="color: #38761d;"><br />Senex (Attack, Stamina) started with a Strength of 11. Diomedes (Dodge, Stamina) started with 10.</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;">Both fighters scored high AP to start the bout and quickly came to blows. Neither could make a breakthrough. Senex suffered a single wound while Diomedes built up several fatigue points.</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #38761d;">Then Diomedes lost his sword while attacking, and Senex was able to immediately occupy the hex it fell in and launch a shield-side attack. Diomedes parried with his large shield, but could not counterattack. Then, trying another attack, Senex also lost his sword! The crowd started to jeer the fighters, thinking this was a display of match-fixing behaviour. Diomedes tried to recover by shield bashing Senex, but he avoided the blow and adroitly stepped back to recover his weapon. This allowed Diomedes to also recover his own sword, but exposed him to a rear attack, causing 4 wounds. </span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #38761d;">The fight then continued as before, both fighters attacking relentlessly to show the crowd they were for real, but only minimal damage and the occasional fatigue resulting. After quite a bit of this, Senex was reduced to 6 Strength & 1 fatigue, while Diomedes was down to 5 Strength (wounded) & 4 fatigues.</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #38761d;">Diomedes big disadvantage was his fully enclosed helmet making it harder for him to carry out fancy moves like stepping sideways or backwards, as compared to Senex who also had +1AP for being light-armed. On the other hand his dodge-enhanced armour save roll was 5 for his front hex making it very hard for Senex to get through.</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #38761d;">Diomedes shed some of his fatigues by taking a breather, while Senex cautiously moved around his flank, but this was all for nothing as the attack was rebuffed while Diomedes, resuming his work, started building fatigues again. Senex, tiring of this seemingly endless cat and mouse game, exerted extra energy (7AP) and attacked from the rear, scoring 7 hits, seriously wounding Diomedes and ending the game.</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #38761d;">Diomedes rolled 12 for his appeal to the crowd, so was granted Missio. Evidently they had forgiven or forgotten about the lost swords fiasco.</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #38761d;">Senex: lost 5/11, Vincit<br />Diomedes: lost 12/10, Missio</span><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #38761d;"><b><br />ASIATICUS v KEMSA</b></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFQuMa_0vx_Y6oHSlCG6wLVRbc9XXaIOK0Z0docN35eV-ZFlo8x8oLqCY59uxqhG6wbMHGhJaCGUR4mvHb8Pq0I4xUjnw8xUgTZc848HQpB2D775r-4dGZY7AP65Ul3YSxbm80naVQRsVn/s1600/AsiaticusVKemsa.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="237" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFQuMa_0vx_Y6oHSlCG6wLVRbc9XXaIOK0Z0docN35eV-ZFlo8x8oLqCY59uxqhG6wbMHGhJaCGUR4mvHb8Pq0I4xUjnw8xUgTZc848HQpB2D775r-4dGZY7AP65Ul3YSxbm80naVQRsVn/s400/AsiaticusVKemsa.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="color: #38761d;"><br />Asiaticus (Attack, Dodge, Popularity, Stamina) may have suffered a slight injury during the Mithras trial as he achieved a Strength score of only 10, whereas Kemsa (Attack, Dodge, Relexes, Stamina) was pumped up with 12 Strength.</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #38761d;">As the two fighters entered the arena, Kemsa's spear slipped from his grasp and fell onto the sand. He quickly retrieved it and carried on, but there was an audible gasp from the crowd, who knew an omen when they saw one. The betting odds, before this evenly spread, began to favour Asiaticus [as you can guess I had to repair a broken weapon with a quick superglue dab!].</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #38761d;">Asiaticus struck first, immediately causing Kemsa to lose his spear again. The odds on Asiaticus shortened again, while Kemsa became almost unbackable. But he recovered well, using his reflexes skill to sidestep cleverly and recover the spear. The fight continued, both fighters using their various skills to try and gain an advantage but neither able to make the breakthrough.</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #38761d;">Asiaticus as usual tried to stay close to his opponent, especially to hinder Kemsa's use of his long spear. This paid off, Kemsa was knocked down and Asiaticus shield bashed him while he was down causing 5 wounds. Kemsa was able to stand again, and dodged Asiaticus's follow up sword attack, but Asiaticus also shield bashed again and once more Kemsa's spear hit the sand.</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #38761d;">Kemsa sidestepped and recovered the spear, but Asiaticus was right on top of him forcing Kemsa to use all his skill to avoid a flurry of hits. Then, right against the run of the fight, Kemsa got through Asiaticus's guard with a big hit, causing 2D6 = 7 wounds. The bookmakers were now officially tearing their hair out. Some stopped taking bets on this fight. One or two quietly left the arena and went into hiding.</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #38761d;">At this point Asiaticus is wounded, with only 3 Strength left. Kemsa has 7 Strength left. Neither fighter has any fatigues. Asiaticus prayed to Mithra to grant him success and promised to spend big on incense if he could win this fight. </span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #38761d;">Mithra must have heard him, as Asiaticus was able to get in a spear side attack that caused 5 wounds to Kemsa. However it was not over yet. Both fighters gained a fatigue in the ensuing moves, then Kemsa hit Asiaticus for another 2 wounds, taking him to only 1, and then again, a clean thrust killing Asiaticus outright. </span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #38761d;">Asiaticus: lost 14/10, Peruit<br />Kemsa: lost 10/12, Vincit</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #38761d;">So that's that for one of them! As usual no happy endings.</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #38761d;"><a href="http://victusvenatus.blogspot.com.au/2017/04/leptis-magna-season-2-episode-12.html">NEXT EPISODE</a></span>Victorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16503479573321677384noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4245905456624199836.post-89874564685309403352017-03-30T19:47:00.000+11:002017-04-05T22:28:15.955+10:00Leptis Magna Season 2, Episode 10<span style="color: #0b5394;"><span style="color: black;">Following on from the </span><a href="http://victusvenatus.blogspot.com.au/2017/03/leptis-magna-season-2-episode-9.html">last episode</a><span style="color: black;">, we carry onto the next round. My posts are in </span><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: small;">blue</span><span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: small;">, Marks are in </span><span style="color: #38761d; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: small;">green</span><span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: small;">, and any post-editing commentary are in </span><span style="color: #990000; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: small;">red</span><span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: small;">. The gladiator rules used are </span><a href="http://hordesofthethings.blogspot.com.au/p/free-stuff.html"><span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: small;">Munera Sine Missione</span></a><span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: small;"> - note that this version may have differences to the current version. Each round will be posted as a weekly episode.</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #0b5394;"><span style="color: black;"></span><b><i><u><sub><sup><strike><br /></strike></sup></sub></u></i></b></span>
<span style="color: #0b5394;">The time has come for Asiaticus to become an initiate in the cult of Mithras. The first level in the brotherhood is known as Corax, or the Raven. To pass this ordeal, the initiate must dress up as a raven, with large wings made of ravens feathers. Like a bird, he must pick up a piece of food (meat) from an table using only his beak (mouth), hop across the floor while holding the food in his mouth, and drop it precisely in front of the idol of Mithras as an offering.</span><br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRPp77c8edDd-f_7rZmDxzYLXvAZ_OKkqgLypJw_G72ow1O7UhZSF1QVd0kmqht77dEeodjSlfsPoQWxGfXSNSEuPfqwKDwb1-qSmj2QSMyOCb2zkxzLyrvgDtgSDu81cwGBubBdAK6mJG/s1600/Roman_-_Fragment_of_a_Mosaic_with_Mithras_-_Walters_437.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRPp77c8edDd-f_7rZmDxzYLXvAZ_OKkqgLypJw_G72ow1O7UhZSF1QVd0kmqht77dEeodjSlfsPoQWxGfXSNSEuPfqwKDwb1-qSmj2QSMyOCb2zkxzLyrvgDtgSDu81cwGBubBdAK6mJG/s200/Roman_-_Fragment_of_a_Mosaic_with_Mithras_-_Walters_437.jpg" width="180" /></a><span style="color: #0b5394;">Seen as the easiest of the entry rites, the initiate must pass the three stages. Roll 8d6 in the first stage (picking up the food). Every roll of 4 or more is a success, if there are no successes, the initiate fails. This determines how securely the food was picked up. With the second stage (hopping across the room to the altar), for every success in the first stage, roll that number of dice in the second stage. Every roll of 4 or more is a success, if there are no successes, the initiate fails. This determines how surely the initate held the food while balancing with the hopping action. With the third stage (dropping the food in the correct spot), for every success in the second stage, roll that number of dice in the third stage. Every roll of 4 or more is a success, if there are no successes, the initiate fails. This determines how close the food is dropped at the feet of the idol. As an example, in the first stage 1,1,2,3,3,4,5,5 is rolled, being 3 successes. In the second stage 3,4,6 are rolled, two successes. In the third stage 2 and 5 are rolled, one success β and the initiate has made it! No successes at any stage is a fail. Asiaticus, all dressed up is in the candle lit Mithraeum, ready to go. The other cultists are all dressed in the paraphernalia of their rank, are chanting away, ready for the showβ¦β¦</span><br />
<span style="color: #0b5394;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #0b5394;">Let me know the results of this. If Asiaticus passes, he must buy a raven mask, as a symbol of rank, for 5 gold, and is welcomed to the brotherhood. If he fails, he may be able to try again in future.</span><br />
<span style="color: #0b5394;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #0b5394;">Meanwhile, Senex is back at the ludus, in the office of Androcles, reporting what he learnt. Androcles ponders the situation, and looks to Quadratus. Quadratus shrugs his shoulders and suspects that Bion has been afflicted with Livias herbs. Androcles agrees to paying the 30 gold, but warns that if the information gained is not of any use, the 30 gold will be deducted from Senexes future fight payments.</span><br />
<span style="color: #0b5394;"><br /></span>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdmhx8pQie9eavfLpLUQaeVDyYj769BPmETH7ca3y8qX0_03ABDcUjOmpeckW6NZzjmKXpMpcvqRrRmYD1UsasKdkf7LmK58NUf5oPxwWVSqUA4Hi9s_SHpJdXOTQYUNicCbm7CuiDjNJy/s1600/Portrait_of_a_Priestess_of_Athena.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdmhx8pQie9eavfLpLUQaeVDyYj769BPmETH7ca3y8qX0_03ABDcUjOmpeckW6NZzjmKXpMpcvqRrRmYD1UsasKdkf7LmK58NUf5oPxwWVSqUA4Hi9s_SHpJdXOTQYUNicCbm7CuiDjNJy/s200/Portrait_of_a_Priestess_of_Athena.JPG" width="132" /></a><span style="color: #0b5394;">Senex meets Flaviania at a pre-arranged meeting spot, and Livia is there as well. Livia, a tall woman with raven black hair, mentions that a Syrian named Samasu has been a regular customer. Senex racks his brain, and knows that a Samasu comes into the ludus at various times to collect bets and give payouts, but does not know if this is the same person. Livia also gives a small quantity of a cure to Senex, she says that this counter acts the effects of the fever brought on by the substance she sold to Samasu. She says that it will be able to cure a person in time for the games of Liber Pater.</span><br />
<span style="color: #0b5394;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #0b5394;">Back at the ludus, Senex reveals the details of Samasu to Androcles who nods saying βit would make sense if it is Samasu, the bookmaker, he comes and goes between each ludus as he pleases!β. One question β does Senex give the curative herbs to Androcles to heal Bion β so that he will be able to fight in the upcoming games? The position of Primus Palus is on the line, and Bion was scheduled to fight the current champion, Murena, who beat Bion once before.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="color: #38761d;">Asiaticus is duly welcomed into the first level of the Brotherhood. His pass scores for the three phases of the initiation trial being 6, 3, 1. In the final part of the trial Asiaticus thought someone tried to trip him, but in any case he passed the test.</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #38761d;">Senex hands over the curative herbs as well as the information to Androcles. He is beginning to enjoy his privileged status as a "trusted" aide of the boss, although his mind has begun to turn to how he could possibly take advantage ...</span><br />
<br />
<span style="color: #0b5394;">Androcles accepts the herbs and pays over 10 gold to Senex as a reward. When Senex and Quadratus leave to returns to their quarters, Quadratus slaps Senex on the back saying βThere is potential in you boy! Keep up the winning and we can start making some real money.β</span><br />
<span style="color: #0b5394;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #0b5394;">Asiaticus spends 5 gold on his new raven mask, and a small caduceus, the symbol of mercury to be worn at all times. He was told that not many make it on their first attempt, and his fellow βbrothersβ thought his skilled performance in the first leg helped with the later stages.</span><br />
<span style="color: #0b5394;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #0b5394;">Over the next few days, Asiaticus has noticed that Bion has made a miraculous recovery and is able to compete in the games. He also notices that he has not seen Samasu for a while, and that a different person is in the ludus to collect bets.</span><br />
<span style="color: #0b5394;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #0b5394;">The order of fighting in the games has been announced;</span><br />
<span style="color: #0b5394;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span style="color: #0b5394;"><b>Senex </b>is to fight <b>Diomedes</b> (2 skills)<br /><b>Asiaticus</b> is to fight <b>Kemsa</b> (4 skills)</span><br />
<span style="color: #0b5394;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #0b5394;">Bion is also fighting for the position of Primus Palus. Apparently, a replacement had been ready from the travelling ludus of Macer if Bion did not recover in time, but is now not needed.</span><br />
<span style="color: #0b5394;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #0b5394;">Anyway, the big day had arrived, with a grand parade commencing at the Temple of Liber Pater, moving past the Arch of Tiberius and towards the amphitheatre. A crowd of 16,000 gathered in the arena together with all dignitaries and the Legatus himself. All looked forward to see what twists and turns the games will bring!</span><br />
<span style="color: #0b5394;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #0b5394;"><a href="http://victusvenatus.blogspot.com.au/2017/04/leptis-magna-season-2-episode-11.html">NEXT EPISODE</a></span>Victorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16503479573321677384noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4245905456624199836.post-4310703721583782372017-03-22T21:42:00.001+11:002017-03-30T19:48:13.556+11:00Leptis Magna Season 2, Episode 9<span style="color: #0b5394;"><span style="color: black;">Following on from the </span><a href="http://victusvenatus.blogspot.com.au/2017/03/leptis-magna-season-2-episode-8.html">last episode</a><span style="color: black;">, we carry onto the next round. My posts are in </span><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: small;">blue</span><span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: small;">, Marks are in </span><span style="color: #38761d; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: small;">green</span><span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: small;">, and any post-editing commentary are in </span><span style="color: #990000; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: small;">red</span><span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: small;">. The gladiator rules used are </span><a href="http://hordesofthethings.blogspot.com.au/p/free-stuff.html"><span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: small;">Munera Sine Missione</span></a><span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: small;"> - note that this version may have differences to the current version. Each round will be posted as a weekly episode.</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #0b5394;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #0b5394;">Bookkeeping first: Asiaticus now goes to his 4th skill. He wins 17 gold, taking his total to 67 gold. Senex does not gain a skill (beating a lower ranked opponent), and wins 9 gold, for a total of 34 gold.</span><br />
<span style="color: #0b5394;">It is noticed that when Asiaticus wins, it tends to be a kill, with Priscus, Corax and Bardelys being victims, and Hanno being the only survivor. This has given him the grim nickname of βAsiaticus Ducit Mortemβ amongst the crowd.</span><br />
<span style="color: #0b5394;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #0b5394;">Androcles and Quatratus cannot work Senex out, the theory is that he is playing to the crowd. The low ranked plebs certainly did cheer him a bit when he gave them a wave, which seemed to give Senex a second wind. And laughter broke out as the scandalous Flaviana made an overtly suggestive gesture back at Senex. Androcles turned to Quadratus asking βdid you encourage this? It is certainly a high risk strategy to ignore ones opponent to seek favour with the plebs!β.</span><br />
<span style="color: #0b5394;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #0b5394;">Quadratus, more through luck than intent, has found himself to be a highly regarded doctore, with the gladiators of Androcles seen as being well prepared. Many of the gladiators have won, including Bion, with the prospect that they will gain good timeslots in the upcoming festival of Liber Pater. However, these hopes are being set back with the arrival of the Legatus. Coming with him is his disgraced relative, Servius Albius Macer. He has brought with him a group of gladiators to contest in the games, much to the annoyance of the Magistrate who ran him out of town in the first place.</span><br />
<span style="color: #0b5394;"><br /></span>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoGLSBNEol54LVK_zMue6nrxZXZlRP7LG4PJgzhkQqPScefW-nd_4P_71RbT9WACxPmnDdyFAAWhmtoS2XYghHbjtiozWBDRjSfPH3Tk95NFdN5HNZi81etS8I_P6XBY3buGU6H_UF3lL0/s1600/Roman_-_Counterweight_with_Bust_of_Tiberius_%2528_%2529_-_Walters_54819.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoGLSBNEol54LVK_zMue6nrxZXZlRP7LG4PJgzhkQqPScefW-nd_4P_71RbT9WACxPmnDdyFAAWhmtoS2XYghHbjtiozWBDRjSfPH3Tk95NFdN5HNZi81etS8I_P6XBY3buGU6H_UF3lL0/s200/Roman_-_Counterweight_with_Bust_of_Tiberius_%2528_%2529_-_Walters_54819.jpg" width="146" /></a><span style="color: #0b5394;">Quite a strange Lanista, Macer allows his gladiators to take in the nightlife of Leptis Magna, with discipline being non-existent. It is also said that some key gladiators in other ludii are having strange training accidents. Even more distressing, is that Bion has fallen ill from some unknown fever. In a panic, Senex has been called into the rather Spartan office of Androcles for a meeting with him and Quadratus. βThere is something happening since the legion arrived β it looks like strange accidents are afflicting champion gladiators that plays into the hands of the newcomer Macer. We think someone is working for the scheming Macer and is able to move in and out of different ludii and βgetβ to the gladiators. We need to find our who this is! Quadratus tells me that you have developed some connections, which was quite evident during the crowd behaviour in your last fight.β He outlines a plan that Senex goes into town, to where the gladiators of Macer are carousing, and look for familiar faces. Senex can take someone with him, which can be another gladiator. Androcles finishes with βYou will be well rewarded if you find success!β. Quadratus adds that there will be two of Androcles guards nearby who can be called in to help.</span><br />
<span style="color: #0b5394;"><b><i><u><sub><sup><strike><br /></strike></sup></sub></u></i></b></span>
<span style="color: #0b5394;">Choices are; </span><br />
<ol>
<li><span style="color: #0b5394;">Does Senex take Asiaticus with him? Not sure is there is a linking back story here for them both.</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #0b5394;">When in town, does Senex go to (a) the fighting pits, or (b) the house of the rising sun?</span></li>
</ol>
<span style="color: #0b5394;">There will be two gu<span style="color: #38761d;"></span><span style="color: #38761d;"></span>ards (as mentioned by Quadratus) who follow at a distance behind. Spending money is providedβ¦.</span><br />
<span style="color: #0b5394;"></span><span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #38761d;">I will give Asiaticus "Popularity" as his 4th skill. I don't know how he is feeling about his new nickname - it would tend to increase the pressure, maybe it will affect his performance going forwards. </span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #38761d;">Regarding the espionage mission that has been assigned to Senex:</span><br />
<ol>
<li><span style="color: #38761d;">He does not take Asiaticus, as although the two of them are acquainted they are not particularly close. Senex is not part of the Mithras in-group who are Asiaticus's buddies now.</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #38761d;">Senex makes a beeline for the House of the Rising Sun. He hopes to pass some time with Flaviana, and also he surmises that is the place gossip from the various ludii is more likely to be found.</span></li>
</ol>
<div>
<span style="color: #0b5394;">Finding it rather odd that Senex wants to go it alone, Androcles agrees, even though he believes that another gladiator might aid in some recognition.</span></div>
<span style="color: #0b5394;"><b><i><u><sub><sup><strike><br /></strike></sup></sub></u></i></b></span>
<span style="color: #0b5394;">Senex travels in the evening to the House of the Rising Sun. Rather luckily, Flaviana is in that night. During their βmeetingβ, Flaviana mentions that Macers gladiators tend to hang out at the fighting pits. Macer himself is said to be a gambler and goes there as well. She also mentions that a friend of hers, Livia (also notoriously nicknamed Livia the Poisoner), has had someone buying a lot of sickness causing herbs and concoctions off her recently. Flaviana <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7ZqyxhlcUEp8laLlE5cow4vJAgcijTaTwYMRiBZ_KOK4WX81tWyTmBw8m4arN-bi8V0lwCTKC1Yc0QFnyjeNNW6buCVsq0jCiLBQEbJ7gqcZwG1ObDt_hi_Ocd5Uh9WfPJbY6S7TIOA6-/s1600/1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7ZqyxhlcUEp8laLlE5cow4vJAgcijTaTwYMRiBZ_KOK4WX81tWyTmBw8m4arN-bi8V0lwCTKC1Yc0QFnyjeNNW6buCVsq0jCiLBQEbJ7gqcZwG1ObDt_hi_Ocd5Uh9WfPJbY6S7TIOA6-/s320/1.jpg" style="cursor: move;" width="320" /></a>is willing to get more information from Livia for a sum of 30 gold (she sees an opportunity here). This is a lot more than the few measly gold Androcles gave Senex for βexpensesβ.</span><br />
<span style="color: #0b5394;"><b><i><u><sub><sup><strike><br /></strike></sup></sub></u></i></b></span>
<span style="color: #0b5394;">What does Senex do;</span><br />
<ol>
<li><span style="color: #0b5394;">Try to negotiate with Flaviana,</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #0b5394;">Go to Androcles with the information gained, and convince him to pay the 30 gold,</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #0b5394;">Go to the fighting pits to look for an alternative clue,</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #0b5394;">Wait for an opportunity when the two guards are just out of sight and flee this crazed city, leaving it to the Romans and their scheming waysβ¦.</span></li>
</ol>
<span style="color: #38761d;">Hmm, I sense a decisive moment in Senexes career is imminent. He also sees the potential of Androcles handing over 30 gold, and imagines Flaviana escaping to freedom with him. Whether he will have the courage to actually make a run for it, we will have to wait and see. But meanwhile, he chooses option (2) and reports back.</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #38761d;"><a href="http://victusvenatus.blogspot.com.au/2017/03/leptis-magna-season-2-episode-10.html">NEXT EPISODE</a></span>Victorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16503479573321677384noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4245905456624199836.post-55619737572169224442017-03-15T20:59:00.000+11:002017-03-22T21:43:11.147+11:00Leptis Magna Season 2, Episode 8<span style="color: #0b5394;"><span style="color: black;">Following on from the </span><a href="http://victusvenatus.blogspot.com.au/2017/03/leptis-magna-season-2-episode-7.html">last episode</a><span style="color: black;">, we carry onto the next round. My posts are in </span><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: small;">blue</span><span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: small;">, Marks are in </span><span style="color: #38761d; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: small;">green</span><span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: small;">, and any post-editing commentary are in </span><span style="color: #990000; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: small;">red</span><span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: small;">. The gladiator rules used are </span><a href="http://hordesofthethings.blogspot.com.au/p/free-stuff.html"><span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: small;">Munera Sine Missione</span></a><span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: small;"> - note that this version may have differences to the current version. Each round will be posted as a weekly episode.</span><b><i><u><sub><sup><strike><br /></strike></sup></sub></u></i></b></span>
<span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #38761d;">I'll give Asiaticus the Attack skill.</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #38761d;">Asiaticus noted the discussion between Quadratus and Androcles, but his natural passivity plus his new devotion to Mithras meant he hurried after the others, to the prayer meeting ...</span><br />
<br />
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<span style="color: #0b5394;">The conversion of Asiaticus to the cult of Mithras is nearly complete. He has heard of a number of initiation ceremonies that must take place, but is not aware of what they might involve. Whenever he asks about the initiation, he just gets greeted with silence and wry smiles from his new found βfriendsβ.</span><br />
<span style="color: #0b5394;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKXQh0avjCpiTLPyrEuBZsAGmxRM7Z1tTGEChePULrkXr15LPMSq-__65vGgd-6Qhzf54vGCKXmrN0-wPYeWA8JJzthU0pONhHzhYi6C1LyYg08bdGjJAbZF3BpJhzlZq3BC2mIwFmwPRk/s1600/Stockholm_-_Antikengalerie_4_-_B%25C3%25BCste_Kaiser_Galba_%2528cropped%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKXQh0avjCpiTLPyrEuBZsAGmxRM7Z1tTGEChePULrkXr15LPMSq-__65vGgd-6Qhzf54vGCKXmrN0-wPYeWA8JJzthU0pONhHzhYi6C1LyYg08bdGjJAbZF3BpJhzlZq3BC2mIwFmwPRk/s200/Stockholm_-_Antikengalerie_4_-_B%25C3%25BCste_Kaiser_Galba_%2528cropped%2529.jpg" style="cursor: move;" width="150" /></a><b><i><u><sub><sup><strike><br /></strike></sup></sub></u></i></b></span>
<span style="color: #0b5394;">Androcles addressed the gladiators one morning. He announced that the next fight will be the last before the great festival of Liber Pater, where the Legatus will be in attendance. Galba is now the Emperor of Rome, and the Legatus is the most powerful man in Africa. It is not known what happened to the former Emperor Nero, some say he was killed by his own slave, others say that he used his acting skills and disguises to escape Rome and flee to Greece. This upcoming games are dedicated to Mithras!</span><br />
<span style="color: #0b5394;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #0b5394;">The order of events are (nothwithstanding last minute alterations);</span><br />
<span style="color: #0b5394;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #0b5394;">β’ </span><b><span style="color: #0b5394;">Asiaticus</span></b><span style="color: #0b5394;"> to fight </span><b><span style="color: #0b5394;">Bardelys</span></b><span style="color: #0b5394;"> who has 3 skills<br />β’ </span><b><span style="color: #0b5394;">Senex</span></b><span style="color: #0b5394;"> to fight </span><b><span style="color: #0b5394;">Mus</span></b><span style="color: #0b5394;"> who has 0 skills</span><br />
<span style="color: #0b5394;"><br /></span>
<u><span style="color: #0b5394;">Special Conditions:</span></u><span style="color: #0b5394;"> Senex will be quite distracted in the fight, as he will look in the stands to see if he recognizes anyone from his adventures in the city. Shuffle 10 normal playing cards (numbered 1 to 10, ace being a one). Draw one card after Senex rolls for AP. If the 7 card is drawn, reduce Senexβs AP roll by 2, as he is temporarily distracted when he spots Flaviana in the crowd. If the 10 card is drawn, Senex spots Hannibal in the crowd. Aghast at such a sight, he will skip that turn.</span><br />
<span style="color: #0b5394;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #0b5394;">As the games are dedicated to Mithras, Asiaticus gains a prayer ability for these games only. If he rolls a natural 6 for AP, he can choose to skip that turn (pauses to pray) and thereafter gains the ability to ignore any negative AP effect from having fatigues, as he is filled with the bull like stamina of Mithras. This lasts until he rolls a natural 1 for AP. Not only does the effect end on rolling the 1, he gains an additional 2 fatigues at that point.</span><br />
<span style="color: #0b5394;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #38761d;">Both Asiaticus and Senex are beginning to develop a fan base among the arena crowd regulars, although neither is considered by any means a first-rate fighter yet. They are considered "prospects worth watching" and as "in with a chance" to rival the top fighters over the course of the next few Games.</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #38761d;">It is also beginning to be noted that fighters from the ludus of Androcles are consistently entering the arena better prepared than their opponents. No one thinks Quadratus is an especially outstanding trainer - what is the secret?</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #38761d;">Here is how the day went for our protagonists -</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #38761d;"><b>ASIATICUS v BARDELYS</b></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnh2fTNJg3Ni3R_nu70iww5WeC2AclEmmW-LqMnGcTglG1NiYcWdBAO_JYEX1kgAluV_Dk_rRsfEpCR7Kygdmryd5sO3TPJXFZAUqTajBHdfUHLH9BS4C60UAkzGlaSwp4HDja7g3N0Qya/s1600/AsiatiticusvBardelys.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="233" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnh2fTNJg3Ni3R_nu70iww5WeC2AclEmmW-LqMnGcTglG1NiYcWdBAO_JYEX1kgAluV_Dk_rRsfEpCR7Kygdmryd5sO3TPJXFZAUqTajBHdfUHLH9BS4C60UAkzGlaSwp4HDja7g3N0Qya/s400/AsiatiticusvBardelys.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #38761d;">I gave Bardelys the same three skills as Asiaticus (Attack, Dodge, Stamina). He is a sica-armed Thracian but wears heavier than usual armour. They came on with Strengths of 11 (Asiaticus) & 9 (Bardelys).</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #38761d;">Asiaticus opened the proceedings with an unsuccessful shield-side attack, and Bardelys, scoring max AP, immediately countered with an identical attack, which Asiaticus parried. After a few more inconclusive exchanges, Bardelys' sica got past Asiaticus's shield and caused 4 wounds. Asiaticus replied with a clever sword thrust that took 4 wounds off Bardelys.</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #38761d;">Both fighters then took a breather. Bardelys stepped away from the fray, and Asiaticus did not follow, preferring to stay where he was and recover a bit (shed his one fatigue).</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #38761d;">Bardelys then began to try to work around Asiaticus's unshielded flank, but Asiaticus was lucky with AP and surprised Bardelys with an attack on his shieldless side. The potential damage was a staggering 9 wounds but the Thracian dodged and was able to escape the blow. Asiaticus kept up the hassle, and in another similar attack caused Bardelys 4 more wounds. At this point, Asiaticus had 7 Strength remaining, and Bardelys had only 1 Strength, and 1 fatigue.</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #38761d;">Bardelys launched an all-out assault, but the effort seemed to over-exert him because (double 3 special event) he was knocked down by Asiaticus's defence. However he recovered and stood up to Asiaticus's flurry of attacks, slowly giving ground as Asiaticus took fatigues. He actually managed a dangerous 5-wound attack at one point but Asiaticus successfully parried. Both fighters were using their Dodge skills effectively to escape lethal damage, but the odds lengthened against Bardelys when he tipped into Exhausted status.</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #38761d;">The end-game was quite long and drawn-out, with Asiaticus following his usual dogged "pursue and bustle" strategy, but never quite getting through Bardelys' guard; and Bardelys grimly resisting and occasionally making a potentially fatal hit which Asiaticus was always able to deflect. But finally Asiaticus made the breakthrough, with a lethal thrust that took Bardelys to -3 Strength, a mortal wound.</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #38761d;">Asiaticus: lost 4/11 Strength, Vincit<br />Bardelys: lost 12/9 Strength, Peruit</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #38761d;">Asiaticus never rolled a 6AP so the Mithras effect never occurred. It would not have helped anyway </span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;">as Asiaticus was at no point particularly close to being Exhausted. Naturally however he believes all his new-found success is due to the protection of the God.</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #38761d;"><b>SENEX v MUS</b></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSnXJ3JH-dNzq122JYj8V39kdQttzUBCCK5r18gyaRjbdWP45_KF7Rm9ZSwYdjqGeFQBYON9jhhQKfDfUjuqBM50pIBtLzf4AXZJhRzAfM5DlsFIfWfnvlj_rdTcf2jYpcAm-ljXXBS3U9/s1600/SenexVMus.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSnXJ3JH-dNzq122JYj8V39kdQttzUBCCK5r18gyaRjbdWP45_KF7Rm9ZSwYdjqGeFQBYON9jhhQKfDfUjuqBM50pIBtLzf4AXZJhRzAfM5DlsFIfWfnvlj_rdTcf2jYpcAm-ljXXBS3U9/s400/SenexVMus.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #38761d;">There seems to be something amiss with the big men among Leptis gladiators this season. Remember the disappointment of Titan a few Games ago, who was easily beaten by Senex. Now Senex faces another giant of a man, the Samnite called "Mus" (mouse, it is meant to be ironic) who is fielded with a Strength of only 6, whereas Senex is pumped with a Strength of 10. Strange days indeed, think the more discerning spectators.</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #38761d;">Despite his heavier status Mus gets all the good AP early in the game, and Senex has to look lively to avoid being caught at a disadvantage. He decides to play a mobile game using his "+1AP" advantage to try and get in some side or rear attacks on Mus. This fails spectacularly as Mus strikes first causing Senex to lose his sword. Deft footwork and good defence enable Senex to avoid worse damage, but how to recover the sword? A game of cat-and mouse ensues with Mus chasing Senex but always careful to be between Senex and the lost weapon. At last the right AP combination (low for Mus followed by high for Senex) enables him to make a run for it and get to the sword.</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #38761d;">But Mus is right behind him and causes 4 wounds in a rear attack before Senex can pick up the sword and get back into action. He grabs it and keeps running to put distance between Mus and himself. Spectators close enough can see him darting anxious glances into the stands as if expecting to see something. But what? Then Senex gives a sort of shudder, as if he sees a terrible sight, and stands for a moment without moving (draws the Hannibal card). Then he seems to recover, smiles and waves (Flaviana card, both cards were together at the bottom of the pack). It is noted that these strange behaviours happened after he had been looking towards the seating bloc reserved for the lowest of the plebs.</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #38761d;">Luckily while this mysterious behaviour is happening (and being noted by Quadratus and Androcles among others, although they are as mystified as anyone) Mus has slowed down (some average AP at last) so Senex has time to gather his wits and plan a new attack. He has lost 4/10 Strength and is lucky it is not a lot more, whereas Mus is unharmed. Mus may be a rookie but he obviously cannot be taken lightly.</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #38761d;">Senex announces he is back in the fight with an attack on Mus' unshielded side, but his thrust is parried. Mus counter attacks but also fails, and several rounds of unsuccessful attacks follow. Then Senex makes the breakthrough, with a "double 6 special event result. Mus takes 2D6=5 wounds, and is reduced to 1 Strength & 2 fatigues = exhausted status. He recovers well and even manages to mount some potentially dangerous attacks on Senex, but all are unsuccessful and only increase his exhaustion level.</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #38761d;">Mus is able to hold off Senex for a few moves, but with exhaustion eventually building up to -3AP each turn it cannot last. Eventually Senex gets through with a lethal 5 wound attack, killing Mus outright.</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #38761d;">Senex: lost 4/10 Strength, Vincit<br />Mus: lost 10/6 Strength, Peruit</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #38761d;">Perhaps Senex will develop a reputation as a "giant killer" - unless of course both fights were arranged beforehand?</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #38761d;">But either way, it has been a good day for the ludus of Androcles! </span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #38761d;"><a href="http://victusvenatus.blogspot.com.au/2017/03/leptis-magna-season-2-episode-9.html">NEXT EPISODE</a></span>Victorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16503479573321677384noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4245905456624199836.post-71760497518589972132017-03-09T19:47:00.002+11:002017-03-22T21:24:47.774+11:00Leptis Magna Season 2, Episode 7<span style="color: #38761d;"><span style="color: black;">Following on from the </span><a href="http://victusvenatus.blogspot.com.au/2017/02/leptis-magna-season-2-episode-6.html">last episode</a><span style="color: black;">, we carry onto the next round. My posts are in </span><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: small;">blue</span><span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: small;">, Marks are in </span><span style="color: #38761d; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: small;">green</span><span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: small;">, and any post-editing commentary are in </span><span style="color: #990000; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: small;">red</span><span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: small;">. The gladiator rules used are </span><a href="http://hordesofthethings.blogspot.com.au/p/free-stuff.html"><span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: small;">Munera Sine Missione</span></a><span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: small;"> - note that this version may have differences to the current version. Each round will be posted as a weekly episode.</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #38761d;">For no discernible reason Senex and Asiaticus found the order of their fights reversed for these games. Asiaticus and Hanno came on in the morning after the usual executions, acrobats etc; while Senex and Felix did not make an appearance until nearly the day's end.</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #38761d;">Both of our fighters went into the arena with their private thoughts. Asiaticus, now a thorough devotee of Mithras, seemed calm and confident. Senex seemed a bit distracted, Flaviana and her "sisters" were on his mind. Also he could not help wondering what would happen if Hannibal the pit fighter ever entered the arena. Senex had described what he had seen to the other fighters in the ludus, but it was generally held that he was exaggerating and that any trained gladiator would easily beat any mere street brawler.</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #38761d;">Anyway, here is how it went down. One thing becoming apparent is that, regardless of Quadratus's training methods, he is getting results in terms of well prepared fighters who have better Strength generally than their opponents.</span><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #38761d;"><b>ASIATICUS v HANNO</b></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjy4IRlOWFyGsZ58BoFwhQBoew6S2l7BKzJyX6J8ypkvqT9Tys6pYFQMmT6IhHrTDf3eje7egsCIcAy07mqewT-TqnSARHNJy6B15-Yx0fd_URMX8IHc8d_vZ2WPG4UfI2wqBFz651ER_IF/s1600/AsiaticusVHanno.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="241" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjy4IRlOWFyGsZ58BoFwhQBoew6S2l7BKzJyX6J8ypkvqT9Tys6pYFQMmT6IhHrTDf3eje7egsCIcAy07mqewT-TqnSARHNJy6B15-Yx0fd_URMX8IHc8d_vZ2WPG4UfI2wqBFz651ER_IF/s400/AsiaticusVHanno.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #38761d;">Asiaticus has the Stamina and Dodge skills, and came on with a Strength of 10. Hanno has the Stamina, Reflexes, and Dodge skills, a dangerous opponent who could move like greased lightning, and a Strength of 8.</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #38761d;">Hanno used his speed to close quickly with Asiaticus, although he was unable to get onto a flank despite trying. However, his first cast of the net succeeded in entangling Asiaticus, who was initially unable to break free. Hanno followed up with an unsuccessful trident attack, following which Asiaticus broke free of the net.</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #38761d;">Hanno again used his speed, accepting the fatigue that came with the exertion, and attempted a trident attack on Asiaticus's shielded side. The unmodified result was a "defender knocked down, lose shield" double 5 special event, but Asiaticus felt the hand of Mithras turn the blow aside, as his D6 roll changed from "5" to "1" and he then dodged successfully.</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiZPec6ks-V4V1lND8FKQ1XOmk_3Ql3lYIe3N2foS7aKnfOvedaWC926fKwOIK3DrQfvYFuQwK4O_jL-r9Z4exI5gc3Tuws6_feV1XFdVKHj0FJIlKAoSeny3Rz7DgCbaUoltqXUIm4fnt/s1600/AsiaHanno2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="373" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiZPec6ks-V4V1lND8FKQ1XOmk_3Ql3lYIe3N2foS7aKnfOvedaWC926fKwOIK3DrQfvYFuQwK4O_jL-r9Z4exI5gc3Tuws6_feV1XFdVKHj0FJIlKAoSeny3Rz7DgCbaUoltqXUIm4fnt/s400/AsiaHanno2.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="color: #38761d;"><i>The Hand of God: Mithras guides Hanno's trident
away from Asiaticus, saving him from a seemingly-certain five wounds. Hanno's
abandoned net lies in front of Asiaticus.</i></span></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="color: #38761d;">The Hand of God: Mithras guides Hanno's trident away from Asiaticus, saving him from a seemingly-certain five wounds. Hanno's abandoned net lies in front of Asiaticus.</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #38761d;">Asiaticus countered with a double attack, driving Hanno back two hexes (push backs for unsuccessful sword and shield bash attacks). Some indecisive exchanges followed, potentially worse for Hanno who was building up fatigue more quickly due to early exertions (using >6 AP). Both began to suffer a few wounds also.</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #38761d;">Asiaticus was able to stay in touch with Hanno due to a run of good AP, and he knocked Hanno down in a special event result. Hanno was able to get back up again, but Asiaticus inflicted more wounds, taking Hanno almost to the point of exhaustion. Asiaticus then knocked him down again, in a "double 2" special event, and forced Hanno to submit by standing over him.</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #38761d;">Hanno's modified appeal score was 11 and he was granted Missio. Asiaticus left the arena a fervent believer in the power of Mithras.</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #38761d;">Asiaticus: lost 2/10, Vincit<br />Hanno: lost 3/8, Missio</span><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #38761d;"><b><u><br /></u>SENEX v FELIX</b></span></div>
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<span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #38761d;">Senex has the Attack and Stamina skills, and entered the arena with a Strength of 12. Felix has the Attack and Dodge skills and started with a Strength of 10. The experts in the crowd, and the hard men from the various Schools looking on, could quickly see this would be a fight between two gladiators in top form.</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #38761d;">Felix came out quite slowly, due to a run of poor AP, and Senex crossed most of the arena to reach him. He moved more cautiously on approach in case the slow movement was a ruse of some kind. Ruse or not it did not seem to work and Senex pounced on Felix's left side, causing 1 wound. Felix then showed his true capabilities. With a high AP score he turned the tables and attacked Senex's shielded flank, causing 7 wounds and taking Senex immediately to "wounded" status.</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #38761d;">Senex counterattacked inflicting another wound on Felix, but many in the crowd wondered if maybe the damage had already been done. Felix continued a flurry of double attacks, taking Senex to only 3 Strength, but events showed that although he was "down" he was certainly not "out". He knocked Felix down with a "double 5" special event, and when Felix got up, did exactly the same thing again! Felix got up a second time, but this time Senex skipped around to his rear and caused 4 wounds, taking Felix to "wounded" status also. The crowd were enthralled by this display of courage and expertise by both fighters. </span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #38761d;">Felix may have been concussed by his two falls. He scored low AP and was not able to turn to face Senex, who pressed a side attack to cause 2 more wounds, then dodged Felix's belated fight back. Both fighters now had only 3 Strength left, and Felix had 1 fatigue. </span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;">At this point Senex scored a third "double 5" knockdown of Felix, once again Felix staggered to his feet, while Senex inflicted another wound. Felix's attack was parried and he acquired a 2nd fatigue, he was now on the brink of exhaustion.</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #38761d;">Senex changed tactics at this point. He stepped away from Felix and began to try and work to a flank. At first this seemed to be a terrible error, as Felix came to life with a high AP roll and attacked Senex's shielded side. But Senex parried and the resulting extra fatigue tipped Felix into exhaustion. This got worse as Felix desperately tried to keep in touch with Senex in the hope of a single good strike (all it would take to win).</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #38761d;">As the more discerning spectators had predicted, in a fight between two fighters so closely matched, it was a small thing that brought on the final result. Senex made an unforced error in movement and Felix, exerting every remaining ounce of Strength, was just barely able to launch one more attack. It was a "double 2" so Senex was floored and forced to submit.</span><br />
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<i><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: small;">Felix
corners Senex in a last-gasp effort and wins the fight, against the odds, after
a heroic performance by both fighters.</span></i></div>
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<span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #38761d;">Felix corners Senex in a last-gasp effort and wins the fight, against the odds, after a heroic performance by both fighters.</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #38761d;">Senex's modified appeal roll was 9, so he was granted Missio but by a surprisingly small margin considering the quality of the fight. Perhaps the voting was influenced by the many who had lost money on the result.</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #38761d;">Senex: lost 9/12, Missio<br />Felix: lost 8/10, Vincit </span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #38761d;">Interesting that both fights ended with "double 2" special events [defender floored, must submit if the attacker can end his move adjacent]. Maybe this is a special move Quadratus is training his gladiators to use?</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #0b5394;">Admin stuff: Asiaticus wins 13 gold, and gains an extra skill. His total gold is 50. Senex wins 9 gold, with total gold of 25.</span><br />
<span style="color: #0b5394;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #0b5394;">Asiaticus has come a long way from his low point. Religion has been good for him both in and away from the arena. Now that he is no longer alone, and part of the Mithras βbrotherhoodβ within the ludus, the bullying from Quadratus and Bion has dissipated, apart from an occasional menacing stare from Bion. Senex on the other hand, seems to be distracted by other things. Androcles doesnβt know what to make of both gladiators at this stage, at times they show brilliance, and at other times only disappointment.</span><br />
<span style="color: #0b5394;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #0b5394;">Senex was quit heavily wounded from his bout, and therefore spent most of his time in recovery. As punishment for his loss, he did not get the privilege of going into the city.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #0b5394;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #0b5394;">While Senex was recovering, a training session was just completing. Asiaticus was called away by his fellow Mithras brothers to attend a prayer session in a room in the ludus that was an impromptu shrine (a βMithraeumβ). Asiaticus started to follow, but he noticed that Bion and Quadratus were having an animated discussion of some sort away from the other gladiators. Does Asiaticus (1) go to the prayer meeting, or (2), attempt to sneak up to Bion and Quadratus and listen in, while hiding behind a wall?</span><br />
<span style="color: #0b5394;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #0b5394;"><a href="http://victusvenatus.blogspot.com.au/2017/03/leptis-magna-season-2-episode-8.html">NEXT EPISODE</a></span><br />
<br />Victorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16503479573321677384noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4245905456624199836.post-43698496916582709652017-03-01T19:00:00.000+11:002017-03-09T19:48:37.608+11:00Leptis Magna Season 2, Episode 6<span style="color: #0b5394;"></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt;"><span style="color: #0b5394;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: small;">Following on from the <a href="http://victusvenatus.blogspot.com.au/2017/02/leptis-magna-season-2-episode-5.html">last episode</a>, we carry onto the next round. My posts are in </span><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: small;">blue</span><span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: small;">, Marks are in </span><span style="color: #38761d; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: small;">green</span><span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: small;">, and any post-editing commentary are in </span><span style="color: #990000; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: small;">red</span><span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: small;">. The gladiator rules used are </span><a href="http://hordesofthethings.blogspot.com.au/p/free-stuff.html"><span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: small;">Munera Sine Missione</span></a><span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: small;"> - note that this version may have differences to the current version. Each round will be posted as a weekly episode.</span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt;"><span style="color: #0b5394;">F</span></span><span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt;"><span style="color: #0b5394;">irst, administrative stuff⦠Senex wins 15 gold (a
huge windfall), Asiaticus win 10 gold. Overall, Senex has 23 gold, Asiaticus 42
gold. Senex does not get a new skill as he was against a weaker opponent,
Asiaticus does gain a new skill. So both are on 2 skills.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt;"><span style="color: #0b5394;">Prior to the fight, Asiaticus was in the depths of
despair. While looking through the grill onto the arena waiting for the
inevitable, a large guard, who was a complete stranger, handed Asiaticus a
small idol of Mithras. βMithras rewards those who believeβ he said. Asiaticus
had heard other gladiators speak of Mithras, so he tucked it into his belt and
put his faith in the idol. When Corax floored Asiaticus, he pleaded to Mithras
for a miracle. As if by magic, some unseen force blocked the double attack by
Corax. When Asiaticus was leaving the arena to the applause of the crowd, asked
for a sign that this was the work of Mithras. Thereupon he saw the flock of
birds. He now believed.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt;"><span style="color: #0b5394;">After the fights, Androcles arrived with Quadratus
to meet the gladiators. Androcles was beaming with joy. βWho would have
thoughtβ he said, βthat we would be seeing so much success today! Tell me
Quadratus, what is the secret here?β Quadratus explained that after Senex lost
his first fight, he arranged for Senex to visit the Domus Solis Ortum to lift
his spirits, and he placed Asiaticus on a special training regimen so that he
could gain confidence and belief in himself. βExcellentβ exclaimed Androcles,
βQuadratus, you could have trained the warriors in Olympus!β</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt;"><span style="color: #0b5394;">As
a reward, Senex is allowed another visit to the seedy parts of town
again. This time around he gets to see some lawless pit fighting. There are no rules, no concept of matched pairs, and the crowd
never grants mercyβ¦</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt;"><span style="color: #0b5394;">Fighting is Hannibal,
who famously wears the face of his most recent opponent as a mask, and uses a
vile pick hammer. His opponent (pictured above) is Lenoidas, a specialist cestus fighter. Senex
can bet up to 5 gold on the winner. If he bets on Hannibal (the favourite), he
will win back an amount equal to his bet, if he bets on Leonidas, he will win
back 5 times what he bets. Does Senex place a bet? If so, for who and how much
(maximum 5 gold)?</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt;"><span style="color: #0b5394;">In the meantime, the ludus is visted by a mystic of
Mithras. Religious people are allowed to enter from time to time. For 5 gold,
he will bring good fortune to Asiaticusβs next fight. If he pays the money,
roll 2d6 and record the result. Asiaticus will be able to replace ANY ONE of
his own dice rolls in his next fight with ONE of the 2 fortune results.</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #38761d;">Asiaticus duly paid his 5 gold for the protection of Mithras, and rolled 2D6 : would you believe, 1 and 1. This mystic may be a fraud, I think. Mind you, still potentially useful to escape from a tricky "special event" problem.</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #38761d;">Senex
will place 5 gold on Leonidas to win. </span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt;">In the pit fight, Hannibal, who is scarcley human, was just too fast, with Leonidas taking fatal blows from the gruesome bipennis. βHannibal is an uncontrolled lunatic!β thought Senex, and was thankful that he is a gladiator rather than a kill or be killed pit fighter.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt;">Senex loses the bet and the 5 gold. He does however, round out the night in a wild party at the Domus Solis Ortum, spending another 2gp. Senex is starting to gain a reputation in the ludus for his wild and spendthrift ways.</span><br />
<span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt;">Asiaticus is seemingly going the opposite way, devoting more time to the understanding of Mithras, and bonding with other gladiators who are members of the cult. The prophecy given to Asiaticus by the Mystic is not all that bad, a 1 can always be used for a turning a failed armour save to a successful block. That may have been the vision β¦.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt;">The next games were announced as one of the qualifying events for the upcoming festival of Liber Pater. The match ups are;</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt;"><b><span style="color: #0b5394;">Senex</span></b><span style="color: #0b5394;"> is up against </span><b><span style="color: #0b5394;">Felix</span></b><span style="color: #0b5394;"> (has 2 skills)</span><b><span style="color: #0b5394;">Asiaticus</span></b><span style="color: #0b5394;"> (armed with his prophetic dice roll of 1) is up against </span><b><span style="color: #0b5394;">Hanno</span></b><span style="color: #0b5394;"> (has 3 skills)</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt;"><span style="color: #0b5394;">The crowd is eagerly anticipating these matches. Betting money favours Senex over Felix, but the money favours Hanno over Asiaticus, as Hanno is seen as a good exponent of the net and trident.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt;"><span style="color: #0b5394;"><a href="http://victusvenatus.blogspot.com.au/2017/03/leptis-magna-season-2-episode-7.html">NEXT EPISODE</a></span></span><span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt;"><span style="color: #0b5394;">
</span></span></div>
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Victorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16503479573321677384noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4245905456624199836.post-68336968950661413712017-02-23T22:34:00.001+11:002017-03-01T19:26:03.652+11:00Leptis Magna Season 2, Episode 5<span style="color: #0b5394;"><span style="color: black;">Following on from the <a href="http://victusvenatus.blogspot.com.au/2017/02/leptis-magna-season-2-episode-4.html">last episode</a>, we carry onto the next round. My posts are in </span><span style="color: #0b5394;">blue</span><span style="color: black;">, Marks are in </span><span style="color: #38761d;">green</span><span style="color: black;">, and any post-editing commentary are in </span><span style="color: #990000;">red</span><span style="color: black;">. The gladiator rules used are </span><a href="http://hordesofthethings.blogspot.com.au/p/free-stuff.html">Munera Sine Missione</a><span style="color: black;"> - note that this version may have differences to the current version. Each round will be posted as a weekly episode.</span></span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTrSlkVBNm-C7l08iklucCxYpP_CWGuRUN6pbkv2sFxVQ2ndJw_4_KQa6ztpEKRzi30Hk_AARDgtDHF-RIlKJr9R49rQczpduuFam4Tb41XiVPNXfGq8KACVhyphenhyphen-__-cGMgmep_BxOmLErC/s200/Bion.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="146" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><div>
Bion</div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="color: #0b5394;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTrSlkVBNm-C7l08iklucCxYpP_CWGuRUN6pbkv2sFxVQ2ndJw_4_KQa6ztpEKRzi30Hk_AARDgtDHF-RIlKJr9R49rQczpduuFam4Tb41XiVPNXfGq8KACVhyphenhyphen-__-cGMgmep_BxOmLErC/s1600/Bion.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTrSlkVBNm-C7l08iklucCxYpP_CWGuRUN6pbkv2sFxVQ2ndJw_4_KQa6ztpEKRzi30Hk_AARDgtDHF-RIlKJr9R49rQczpduuFam4Tb41XiVPNXfGq8KACVhyphenhyphen-__-cGMgmep_BxOmLErC/s1600/Bion.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><br /></span>
<span style="color: #0b5394;">It is not well known, but Bion gained streetfighting skills in the rough backstreets of Athens as a young lad. He was forced into becoming a gladiator to pay off gambling debts. He was told that he could make a good cestus fighter, but Bion preferred to don the national hoplomachus style of his countrymen. Bion is also considered to be an astute gambler; the gossip in the ludus is that he has already paid off his debts from a number of windfalls but chooses to fight on voluntarily.</span><br />
<span style="color: #0b5394;"></span><br />
<span style="color: #0b5394;">Observers of the breakfast fight judged that Bion tricked Asiaticus into defending high while Bion hit low. A trait learned from Bion's old streetfighting days.</span><br />
<span style="color: #0b5394;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #0b5394;">However, this was all academic to Asiaticus, whose life became even more miserable. As punishment for his poor performances, he was given the duty to clean out Rufus's kennel daily, which was work normally done by household slaves.</span><br />
<span style="color: #0b5394;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #0b5394;">Time passes...</span><br />
<span style="color: #0b5394;"></span><br />
<span style="color: #0b5394;">Finally another set of games were announced. They are held to honour the war dead of Legio III Augusta, as it is now the fashion to respect the authority of the Legatus. The match ups are;</span><br />
<span style="color: #0b5394;"><br /></span>
<b><span style="color: #0b5394;">Senex</span></b><span style="color: #0b5394;"> (who has 2 skills) vs </span><b><span style="color: #0b5394;">Botanicus</span></b><span style="color: #0b5394;"> (has 1 skill)</span><b><span style="color: #0b5394;">Asiaticus</span></b><span style="color: #0b5394;"> (who has 1 skill) vs </span><b><span style="color: #0b5394;">Corax</span></b><span style="color: #0b5394;"> (who has 2 skills β one of them is attack)</span><br />
<span style="color: #0b5394;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #0b5394;">It was thought by Androcles that the match up with Senex was odd, being pitted against a lesser gladiator. βMust be some strange things going onβ he murmured.</span><br />
<span style="color: #0b5394;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #0b5394;">Corax had previously defeated Senex, so it was widely thought he will easily dispose of Asiaticus. Asiaticus didnβt know what to think, if he lost again, would Androcles lose patience with him?</span><br />
<span style="color: #0b5394;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFqzFHZYzfNB-361WwSItQaSg4-d1l7lqTM3JLB4Qhr46BCE3AKqaLYvdoZvI_-SWOyOj-ou5ya0J7tCw2XL84lTwjo1xTDPrHdO1KIZ25gHpsuw73l34hnCwMb4pL2THFNua4EZNWoGGQ/s1600/1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFqzFHZYzfNB-361WwSItQaSg4-d1l7lqTM3JLB4Qhr46BCE3AKqaLYvdoZvI_-SWOyOj-ou5ya0J7tCw2XL84lTwjo1xTDPrHdO1KIZ25gHpsuw73l34hnCwMb4pL2THFNua4EZNWoGGQ/s200/1.jpg" width="125" /></a></div>
<span style="color: #0b5394;">The pre-fight entertainment included convicted criminals being killed. Greek tragedies were the order of the day, and one poor sod recreated the flight of Icarus and was hurled across the arena from a catapult before falling to a gruesome death. Asiaticus, upon seeing the spectacle, mused that there are others in a far worse position than himβ¦</span><br />
<br />
<span style="color: #38761d;">Yes, no-one would want to be in Asiaticus's sandals at the moment. And yet somehow he survives, although he has seen many "better" fighters perish. The Gods can move in mysterious ways. </span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #38761d;"></span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;">Anyway, the day of the new Games dawned and once again it turned out that Senex and his opponent were to go on in the morning session, with Asiaticus's bout just after the lunch break.</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #38761d;">Here is how it all transpired.</span><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #38761d;"><b>FIGHT 1: SENEX v BOTANICUS</b></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYWAwfxSKddUGvNW1-_22t7eEuDWO5S6c8QmFrl3dSYaSg-MthYV0rJ4O0-uo8gC2X7q7HGPOxchGPi-rc9j7dKXQOHIqj3-W_v2WtvpjU_Iu80hy4ouRtihQqZ1mTC8cqaZBf_hKdnbnD/s1600/senbot.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="237" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYWAwfxSKddUGvNW1-_22t7eEuDWO5S6c8QmFrl3dSYaSg-MthYV0rJ4O0-uo8gC2X7q7HGPOxchGPi-rc9j7dKXQOHIqj3-W_v2WtvpjU_Iu80hy4ouRtihQqZ1mTC8cqaZBf_hKdnbnD/s400/senbot.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #38761d;">Senex has the Attack and Stamina skills, Botanicus has the Popularity skill (there's maybe a back story there if needed). Senex entered the arena with a Strength score of 12 while Botanicus came in with only 5! (A 6-1 dice roll split + Senexes stamina advantage). Androcles and Quadratus were feeling confident about this one, as they had been tipped off by a source in the other ludus that Botanicus had diarrhoea. Why was he not 'scratched' from the lineup then?</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #38761d;">The two fighters got straight down to it, Botanicus not showing any obvious signs of illness. First blood to Senex causing one wound. Botanicus struck back, a wound to Senex followed by a shield bash that put him on the ground. Senex got up, and the fight continued with several rounds of indecisive sparring and a few fatigues building up.</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #38761d;">Then Senex scored a quick hit that took Botanicus down to 0 Strength and it was all over. He rolled a modified 11 for his appeal so was granted Missio.</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #38761d;">Senex: lost 2/12, Vincit<br />Botanicus: lost 5/5, Missio</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #38761d;">The crowd digested this one sided result over lunch, with their turnips, and the more they thought about it the less they liked it. Something was obviously not right. The losing punters felt especially aggrieved.</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #38761d;">Settling back onto the benches after lunch, they wondered if the first afternoon fight had also somehow been "arranged". Asiaticus was a known loser, and his opponent Corax was considered superior on all points, so no one expected much of a spectacle.</span><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #38761d;"><b>FIGHT 2: ASIATICUS v CORAX</b></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCbNZFPnNBs3VfMgkISjTE4f9aQ1eSU11vSnY40aBxYWo5F063k5PXZkmp9n4tb5H6Aww19pfkbHNpOBc_nVDrCx7i3MCimRb5Mtu4ZH5zPFa2Azc3q3BrEzp_XBQXWxHXnNkcDW-GCl9s/s1600/asiacor.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="245" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCbNZFPnNBs3VfMgkISjTE4f9aQ1eSU11vSnY40aBxYWo5F063k5PXZkmp9n4tb5H6Aww19pfkbHNpOBc_nVDrCx7i3MCimRb5Mtu4ZH5zPFa2Azc3q3BrEzp_XBQXWxHXnNkcDW-GCl9s/s400/asiacor.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #38761d;">Hmm. Asiaticus, with the Dodge skill, rolled high and came on with a Strength of 10. Obviously that regime of kennel cleaning has toughened him up. Or a realisation that this is probably a "do or die" moment for him. Corax, the cool professional, came in with a Strength of 8 and the Attack and Dodge skills.</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #38761d;">They looked evenly matched at first, even rolling identical AP dice in the first few rounds. Corax struck first, two wounds to Asiaticus's shielded side. He hit back immediately with an identical result on Corax's shielded side. The fight then moved into another phase, with Asiaticus trying to bustle Corax, and Corax trying to step back to use his long spear. The only result was fatigue building up on both sides, tho Asiaticus was unlucky to fail in an attack on Corax's unshielded side. </span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #38761d;">Corax achieved a "double 4" special event to floor Asiaticus but could not take advantage. He tried a big double attack but only succeeded in building 2 more fatigues, one for the spear failure and one for the bash failure. More inconclusive sparring then resumed.</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #38761d;">Then Asiaticus made a big score, taking 4 wounds off Corax in an attack on his unshielded side. Corax was now down to only 2 Strength, with 4 fatigues (exhausted). Asiaticus was at 8 Strength and 4 fatigues. Corax's response was a "double 1" special event, losing his spear which fell in the hex separating the two fighters. Asiaticus moved up to prevent Corax retrieving the spear, and delivered another 4 wounds, taking Corax to -2 and submission.</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #38761d;">Corax rolled a modified 6 for his appeal, so Asiaticus completed a successful day at the office by dispatching his badly wounded opponent.</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #38761d;">On his way out of the arena, he glanced up at the sky. A flight of birds passed overhead in an auspicious formation. Was his luck changing?</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #38761d;">Asiaticus: lost 2/10, Vincit</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;">Corax: lost 10/8, Peruit</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #38761d;"><a href="http://victusvenatus.blogspot.com.au/2017/03/leptis-magna-season-2-episode-6.html">NEXT EPISODE</a></span>Victorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16503479573321677384noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4245905456624199836.post-71626448601275191812017-02-15T19:20:00.001+11:002017-02-23T22:35:18.079+11:00Leptis Magna Season 2, Episode 4<div>
<span style="color: #0b5394;"><span style="color: black;">Following on from the <a href="http://victusvenatus.blogspot.com.au/2017/02/leptis-magna-season-2-episode-3.html">last episode</a>, we carry onto the next round. My posts are in </span><span style="color: #0b5394;">blue</span><span style="color: black;">, Marks are in </span><span style="color: #38761d;">green</span><span style="color: black;">, and any post-editing commentary are in </span><span style="color: #990000;">red</span><span style="color: black;">. The gladiator rules used are </span><a href="http://hordesofthethings.blogspot.com.au/p/free-stuff.html">Munera Sine Missione</a><span style="color: black;"> - note that this version may have differences to the current version. Each round will be posted as a weekly episode.</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #0b5394;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #0b5394;">There was much debate as to why Bogud lost. Many thought it was due to his doctore, Pavo, training him in tactics more suited to a secutor, perhaps proving the armchair spectators right. In any event, Senex only won 4 gold from the event. He was quite perplexed at this β maybe it was because the fight was not seen as being serious, up against a slingshot user. Quadratus grumbled βlooks like that night at the Domus Solis Ortum did some wonders for you.β</span></div>
<span style="color: #0b5394;"></span><br />
<span style="color: #0b5394;">The star of Asiaticus seems to be falling, only earning 2 gold from the event. βUseless buffoon!β screamed Quadratus, βAndrocles was right, maybe you are only good for the opening acrobatics!β</span><br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDnZFxzAD_hFp_LpvGHRtbCAWiVnVreF0mKyST09O5vm5svzNwb2wwoQwNvgeKXQeVg-eLnHKggjNf9S-W0_6WIScK7JzXB7GIMKIczwKtL-HpG8Ef5wDtloAJI2mPTW7i7SKrIRG95PpJ/s1600/1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="146" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDnZFxzAD_hFp_LpvGHRtbCAWiVnVreF0mKyST09O5vm5svzNwb2wwoQwNvgeKXQeVg-eLnHKggjNf9S-W0_6WIScK7JzXB7GIMKIczwKtL-HpG8Ef5wDtloAJI2mPTW7i7SKrIRG95PpJ/s200/1.jpg" width="200" /></a><span style="color: #0b5394;">There were no games immediately scheduled, and both gladiators had fully recovered. It seemed that Asiaticus was even more out of favour (though he was never in favour). Bion, who won his last bout and full of swagger again, was merciless in his bullying of Asiaticus during communal times. Quadratus seemed to actively encourage this. One breakfast, Bion picked up Asiaticusβs breakfast bowl full of porridge and threw it into the face of Asiaticus. The other gladiators looked on, not wanting to get involved.</span><br />
<span style="color: #0b5394;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #0b5394;">It was highly amusing to Quadratus who broke into laughter. Asiaticus has two options β (1) take it and do nothing, or (2) fight (a fist fight).</span><br />
<ul>
<li><span style="color: #0b5394;">If a fist fight is chosen, then use the following rules; (miniatures are not needed for this)</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #0b5394;">Roll starting strength for both gladiators as normal, except add 8 to the d6 roll rather than 4 (so strength will be between 9 and 14). For Bion, take the higher die of 2d6 and add it to the 8.</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #0b5394;">There is no fatigue.</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #0b5394;">Asiaticus throws the first punch.</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #0b5394;">To punch, choose a target area (head, groin or body) and roll a dice to see if Bion is defending it (see table below). If he is not, do a number of wounds equal to the area hit;</span></li>
<ul>
<li><span style="color: #0b5394;">A body blow does 1 wound</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #0b5394;">A groin hit does 2 wounds</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #0b5394;">A head punch does 3 wounds</span></li>
</ul>
<li><span style="color: #0b5394;">If Bion is defending the correct area, the blow does no damage. Then it is Bionβs turn. Decide what area Asiaticus will block, then roll to see what area Bion is attacking;</span></li>
</ul>
<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="border-collapse: collapse; mso-padding-alt: 0cm 0cm 0cm 0cm; mso-yfti-tbllook: 1184;">
<tbody>
<tr style="mso-yfti-firstrow: yes; mso-yfti-irow: 0;">
<td style="background-color: transparent; border-image: none; border: 1pt solid windowtext; padding: 0cm 5.4pt; width: 70.9pt;" valign="top" width="95"><div align="center" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt;"><span style="color: #0b5394;">Die</span></span></b></div>
</td>
<td style="background-color: transparent; border-color: windowtext windowtext windowtext rgb(0, 0, 0); border-image: none; border-style: solid solid solid none; border-width: 1pt 1pt 1pt 0px; padding: 0cm 5.4pt; width: 70.85pt;" valign="top" width="94"><div align="center" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt;"><span style="color: #0b5394;">Bion Attacks</span></span></b></div>
</td>
<td style="background-color: transparent; border-color: windowtext windowtext windowtext rgb(0, 0, 0); border-image: none; border-style: solid solid solid none; border-width: 1pt 1pt 1pt 0px; padding: 0cm 5.4pt; width: 3cm;" valign="top" width="113"><div align="center" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt;"><span style="color: #0b5394;">Bion Defends</span></span></b></div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr style="mso-yfti-irow: 1;">
<td style="background-color: transparent; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0) windowtext windowtext; border-image: none; border-style: none solid solid; border-width: 0px 1pt 1pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt; width: 70.9pt;" valign="top" width="95"><div align="center" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt;"><span style="color: #0b5394;">1</span></span></div>
</td>
<td style="background-color: transparent; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0) windowtext windowtext rgb(0, 0, 0); border-style: none solid solid none; border-width: 0px 1pt 1pt 0px; padding: 0cm 5.4pt; width: 70.85pt;" valign="top" width="94"><div align="center" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt;"><span style="color: #0b5394;">Head</span></span></div>
</td>
<td style="background-color: transparent; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0) windowtext windowtext rgb(0, 0, 0); border-style: none solid solid none; border-width: 0px 1pt 1pt 0px; padding: 0cm 5.4pt; width: 3cm;" valign="top" width="113"><div align="center" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt;"><span style="color: #0b5394;">Body</span></span></div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr style="mso-yfti-irow: 2;">
<td style="background-color: transparent; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0) windowtext windowtext; border-image: none; border-style: none solid solid; border-width: 0px 1pt 1pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt; width: 70.9pt;" valign="top" width="95"><div align="center" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt;"><span style="color: #0b5394;">2,3</span></span></div>
</td>
<td style="background-color: transparent; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0) windowtext windowtext rgb(0, 0, 0); border-style: none solid solid none; border-width: 0px 1pt 1pt 0px; padding: 0cm 5.4pt; width: 70.85pt;" valign="top" width="94"><div align="center" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt;"><span style="color: #0b5394;">Groin</span></span></div>
</td>
<td style="background-color: transparent; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0) windowtext windowtext rgb(0, 0, 0); border-style: none solid solid none; border-width: 0px 1pt 1pt 0px; padding: 0cm 5.4pt; width: 3cm;" valign="top" width="113"><div align="center" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt;"><span style="color: #0b5394;">Groin</span></span></div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr style="mso-yfti-irow: 3; mso-yfti-lastrow: yes;">
<td style="background-color: transparent; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0) windowtext windowtext; border-image: none; border-style: none solid solid; border-width: 0px 1pt 1pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt; width: 70.9pt;" valign="top" width="95"><div align="center" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt;"><span style="color: #0b5394;">4,5,6</span></span></div>
</td>
<td style="background-color: transparent; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0) windowtext windowtext rgb(0, 0, 0); border-style: none solid solid none; border-width: 0px 1pt 1pt 0px; padding: 0cm 5.4pt; width: 70.85pt;" valign="top" width="94"><div align="center" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt;"><span style="color: #0b5394;">Body</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt;"><span style="color: #0b5394;"> </span></span><span style="color: #0b5394;">The first gladiator to go to zero or less points falls down and loses.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #0b5394;">Let me know what happensβ¦.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="color: #38761d;">Bion rolled 2 & 4 for his Strength D6, so his starting Strength was 12. Asiaticus rolled 5, so began with a Strength of 13.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhB4Yo91Wbw9oe5u041hoasZ5fOZ1fzSv8XDOV1EL7g8kgrcg1EFdzslCcovWmC_OcvUVZocr04CcjQOuIuaCxlRdeyR9tR49vNX75lgSu6wLVMP7zNqLXNCA9kcgXabwVB1N0LiBgk1RkB/s1600/11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div>
<span style="color: #38761d;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhB4Yo91Wbw9oe5u041hoasZ5fOZ1fzSv8XDOV1EL7g8kgrcg1EFdzslCcovWmC_OcvUVZocr04CcjQOuIuaCxlRdeyR9tR49vNX75lgSu6wLVMP7zNqLXNCA9kcgXabwVB1N0LiBgk1RkB/s1600/11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="196" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhB4Yo91Wbw9oe5u041hoasZ5fOZ1fzSv8XDOV1EL7g8kgrcg1EFdzslCcovWmC_OcvUVZocr04CcjQOuIuaCxlRdeyR9tR49vNX75lgSu6wLVMP7zNqLXNCA9kcgXabwVB1N0LiBgk1RkB/s200/11.jpg" style="cursor: move;" width="200" /></a></span><span style="color: #38761d;">For all his plodding unspectacular nature, something was roused in Asiaticus when Bion provoked him by throwing the bowl of porridge at him in front of the other fighters. He landed a blow on Bion's body, and the two of them traded body blows for a few seconds. Meanwhile the chaos around them subsided as Quadratus ordered the other fighters go back off, and to,d the guards not to intervene. The combatants continued their struggle in the middle of a ring of fighters, guards and slaves, cheering them on. Doubtless many bets were laid by the spectators.</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #38761d;">It became obvious after a bit that Bion has faster reactions than Asiaticus. After the initial flurry of body blows, Bion got in two quick groin hits on Asiaticus, while blocking Asiaticus's counter punch.</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #38761d;">For a while after that the combatants held each other off, with several rounds of blocked blows. Bion blocked two head punches and Asiaticus blocked a body punch.</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #38761d;">But then Bion began to assert dominance, and hit Asiaticus with two groin shots and another body shot, while taking fewer hits as he was able to block some of Asiaticus's punches.</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #38761d;">In the end Bion punched Asiaticus to the floor and the fight was ended.</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #38761d;">Asiaticus lost 15/15 strength, while Bion lost 9/12 strength. Neither fighter landed a successful head shot in the entire fight. Asiaticus was successful with 5 x body hits and 2 x groin hits (total = 9 strength). Bion was successful with 5 x body hits and 4 x groin hits (total = 13 strength). Tellingly though, Asiaticus was blocked by Bion 3 times (2 head shots, 1 groin shot) whereas Bion was blocked by Asiaticus only 1 time (body shot).</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #38761d;">This is going to be interesting ... not sure I would like to be Asiaticus right now.</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #38761d;"><a href="http://victusvenatus.blogspot.com.au/2017/02/leptis-magna-season-2-episode-5.html">NEXT EPISODE</a></span>Victorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16503479573321677384noreply@blogger.com0