Bandits and Mercenaries [Archive] - Page 2

Amatsu

06-30-2004, 10:16

Ok, got my log in figured out again, woo. My exams were actually last week... hehe, but I've had computer troubles last week and early this week. It seems to be in working order now. Now I just need to find my copy of MTW... might take me awhile. I have a bad habit of putting stuff not in use in odd places. Like the roof, or my backyard, or submerged at the bottom of lake michigan. Sigh...

Sorry Xiahou Lao (great name by the way), hate to keep you waiting... hopefully someone else takes my spot soon. Also, any mercenary willing to lend me some florins from their coffers to cover the rest of my maintainance costs? I won't be able to get them taken care of before the start of the month. I don't think I need too much, and of course, I'd pay it back. :D If that is possible Nigel? If not http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/gc-furious3.gif http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/gc-argue.gif http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/gc-wall.gif http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/gc-wall.gif http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/gc-wall.gif http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/barrel.gif http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/mecry.gif http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/ceasarno.gif http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/barrel.gif http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/barrel.gif http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/gc-wall.gif http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/gc-wall.gif http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/gc-wall.gif http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/gc-wall.gif http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/gc-wall.gif http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/mecry.gif http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/gc-oops.gif

woo, lol... hopefully I'll find my game soon and get back into the swing of things.

Amatsu

octavian

06-30-2004, 16:55

Amatsu, im sure ur merc. comrades would love to lend you some money, the problem is, only one of them even has enough money to make it through the next payday http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/gc-confused.gif http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/gc-stunned.gif http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/gc-confused.gif

Nigel

06-30-2004, 17:39

Hey Amatsu, good to have you back online https://forums.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/wave.gif

As far as I am concerened, there is absolutely no problem with players lending money to each other. If you want, you can make any deals and agreements you can think of. Negotiating the terms and conditions is entirely up to you - no limit to your creativity here.
https://forums.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/gc-clown.gif

https://forums.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/gc-mask.gif thinking of it, you could even accept bribes from the bandits, if you are so inclined....

Xiahou Liao

06-30-2004, 17:39

I'd perhaps lend some. But I'm a Bandit and my bandit buddies say, http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/ceasarno.gif.

octavian

06-30-2004, 19:10

alright nigel, i know I'm gonna sound like a broken record and all but this is really worrying me. this castle battle coming up, is, quite simply, unwinnable. (i lost to the AI on normal) now i have no problem with losing........if i actually have a chance at winning. thing is, while two catapults may be more than enough to break his walls, that morale bonus of his will kill me. my suggestion.... make this assault open for two bandits. still only have two catapults, but simply have two attackers. otherwise, i might as well give Ang the money now, and not risk having any of my units entirely annihilated. http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/mecry.gif

http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/medievalcheers.gif Octavian http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/medievalcheers.gif

Nigel

06-30-2004, 21:29

Hmm, Octavian, I had thought the moral bonus for the defender is only in SP games, not in MP. But this is something I am not really sure about.

But anyway...

Quote[/b] ]...simply have two attackers. otherwise, i might as well give Ang the money now, and not risk having any of my units entirely annihilated

You asked for it http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif
So here goes :

... slowly moving over the hill, Octavian and his men finally discovered Sir Longshanks' castle before them. Seeing the wood and stone walls rising high out of the morning mist and noticing Chimpyang's banner flying over the towers, their hearts sank and the blood left Octavians cheeks. "I am not attacking that, no way." he said to his second in command. "Turn back, and spread the word to the other gangs. We need reinforcements."

In the castle Sir Longshanks breathed a sigh of relieve. "Chimpyang, my dear friend You have saved my humble abode from the evil bandit. I know they`ll be back and if you want to stay, I will increase your pay to 900 Florins. Please don't say no. And meanwhile take this purse of 200 Florins now, as a sign of my gratitude. There will be another such bonus, if indeed the bandit should return with reinforcements."

Axeknight

06-30-2004, 21:41

Quote[/b] (Xiahou Liao @ June 30 2004,00:22)]I should be able to...unless some DRAMATIC happens or I get hired or something for the multiple applications I've put in...yeah Sure...for a price. MWUAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAAHAHAHAH
Thanks Xiahou. You wanna command the peasants? Should lead to some interesting "Gah Stop Bandit cavalry heading your way RUN" convos... http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/flat.gif

Nigel

06-30-2004, 23:29

oh, good, that seems to be working then.
At least another chance.

Well, the month is ending today. Time to pay your soldiers.
Allowing for timezone difference, I will leave everyone for today to make any last minute arrangements. Tomorrow, when I get back from work, I will update page 1.
http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/gc-book2.gif

And btw, Octavian and Guy, your battle for mission #8 looked really exciting.
Deploying, moving around into position, first skirmishes, clash of the main forces, rout, recover, regroup, rest and reorganize, advancing again and another road block and the final struggle. http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/gc-2thumbsup.gif Everything a good battle should have http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/gc-2thumbsup.gif

If you don't mind, I will upload it for everyone to see.

octavian

07-01-2004, 00:00

go right ahead m8. http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif i will be around all nite to sign autographs for those of you who want one http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/wink.gif

octavian

07-01-2004, 00:03

Quote[/b] (Nigel @ June 30 2004,16:29)]Hmm, Octavian, I had thought the moral bonus for the defender is only in SP games, not in MP. But this is something I am not really sure about.

But anyway...

Quote[/b] ]...simply have two attackers. otherwise, i might as well give Ang the money now, and not risk having any of my units entirely annihilated

You asked for it http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif
So here goes :

... slowly moving over the hill, Octavian and his men finally discovered Sir Longshanks' castle before them. Seeing the wood and stone walls rising high out of the morning mist and noticing Chimpyang's banner flying over the towers, their hearts sank and the blood left Octavians cheeks. "I am not attacking that, no way." he said to his second in command. "Turn back, and spread the word to the other gangs. We need reinforcements."

In the castle Sir Longshanks breathed a sigh of relieve. "Chimpyang, my dear friend You have saved my humble abode from the evil bandit. I know they`ll be back and if you want to stay, I will increase your pay to 900 Florins. Please don't say no. And meanwhile take this purse of 200 Florins now, as a sign of my gratitude. There will be another such bonus, if indeed the bandit should return with reinforcements."
lol, stupid me, always taking the risks http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/wink.gif well at least tahs over and done with http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/tongue.gif be sure i will return though if i can convince Steeleye, or XL, or Shaka, if he manages to avoid debtors prison. (or in his case, the nearest tree, bandits aren't very big on jails) http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/wink.gif

Amatsu

07-01-2004, 01:28

(It should be noted that I found my game, it was under some papers in my room, lol... go figure, it hasn't been installed yet, but soon.)

Amatsu was sitting sipping his coffee and eating a donut when a messenger rode into his palace. On the table there were many papers about how the troops will need their pay. "What is it, messenger?"

"Sir, Octavian is requesting reinforcements to attack Chimpyang in his castle."

"And what of it? Octavian is a bandit."

Amatsu's closest advisor rubbed his chin, and thought about the situation as the messenger explained it. After several minutes, he spoke up. "Amatsu?"

"What is it?" Replied Amatsu, slightly annoyed.

"Perhaps we can use this situation to our advantage."

"If you are suggesting answering this Bandit's call to aid, and attacking a fellow mercenary.. then I suggest you suggest something else."

"It is what I am suggesting."

"Do you like your head where it is advisor?"

"Well my liege, with the troops needing money in a few days or face desertion, and given that we are mercenaries whos very nature lies to the money given, not the loyalty of friends... we may not have a choice."

Amatsu rubbed his chin. "You have a point, advisor. Your head shall remain. Messenger?"

"Yes sir?"

"Send word to the men to not desert. Also, send word to Octavian that for a reasonable fee of 100 florins up front, and 49% of the booty, Amatsu and his army will answer his call, and for a battle fight as a Bandit. And be quick about it, the fact that you are still here tempts me to remove your head"

"Y-Y-Yes SIR"

The messenger shot out of the palace on onto his horse, ready to deliver his message. Amatsu sipped his coffee and sunk back into his chair.

octavian

07-01-2004, 02:00

ah amatsu, if only u had sent word a day earlier, my treasury has only 7 extra florins in it http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/mecry.gif however, i shall consult with my companion and ally, Steeleye, and perhaps can... arrange... something to be done, a loan perhaps, he lends me 100 florins to give you, i pay him back 110 florins once the battle is completed. and 43 percent of the loot is what you shall get... i do have the larger army, therefore, the largest payroll. consider yourself lucky i am being so generous as to give you 43 percent. and welcome to the ranks of bandits my friend. may your days be long and full of wine, wimmin, and loot http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/wink.gif

Xiahou Liao

07-01-2004, 03:49

I would agree with Octavian here...I'll help him if he needs? :p

Amatsu

07-01-2004, 06:55

I hardly consider this a betrayal of my mercenary allies... just a look in self interest. (plus I love castle battles.) Unless Nigel kicks me out of his employ for high treason. Or allow me to remain with an obvious strain on the friendships with other Mercs. :) Could be interesting. 43% I shall accept, to keep my army in line and only for that reason. A castle battle seems interesting enough.

Is this momentary betrayal allowable Nigel? It could be interesting... I don't quite want to go full on Bandit, but it'd be a great mission to take part in.

KyodaiSteeleye

07-01-2004, 14:06

Amatsu

I was surprised to recieve your note after our previous altercation.

However, I have considered your request, and I will lend you 100 florins from my chest. But my liking is not for charity, and my men would not allow me anyway, so I will expect the full some to be returned to me, with 20 florins interest as soon as you have sacked the Merchant's stronghold.

If you are willing to enter this agreement, you will give me security by sending me the leader and standard of one of your companies as my guests. If, after your assault, you do not have the required sum, your man and his troops will join my band (he must be of a company which i can use - not italian light infantry).

These are the terms.

Are you agreed?

Guillaume the Colt.

Kenchi_Shaka

07-01-2004, 14:07

axeknight, plz suggest a time, its jus 2 days until saturday and i cant find a host as long i dunno when we gonna play.

thx
shaka

Nigel

07-01-2004, 17:37

Great stuff, guys http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/gc-2thumbsup.gif I really love your wheeling and dealing http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/cool.gif http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/bigthumb.gif http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/cool.gif

Amatsu
As a merchant, I myself have no problem if you want to go and give Lord Longshanks a good beating. I never liked that guy anyway, always trying to haggle down my prices and demanding toll for the goods I want to transport through his lands. So, while I may not be able to say this aloud, if you capture his castle, please give him an extra kick from me.

Going up against your mercenary friends, well, that is really between yourself and Chimpyang. I wont get in between that (unless I have to as gamemaster). So I will leave it up to you to make excuses and apologies if necessary.

The only thing I don't know is what Lord Longshanks will do if he recognizes your banner. Will he go to the authorities? Which authorities? You are a merceary, a sword for hire. Not a knight having pledged allegiance to the king. Will he send his own army after you when it returns. Well, that is a risk you may have to take (possible new mission). So yea, I don't exactly know what consequences will be, but if you want to risk it, go ahead.

http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/gc-lost.gif
As for the details of the deal, now lets sort that out.
Steeleye gives you 100 Florins now. Right, done.
You will choose and send one of your units as security to Steeleye's tents. Due to the max 4 rule this can be only an archer or a pav arlabest. Make the choice and I will move the unit over.

Then, you can pay your troops and good luck with the battle
http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/gc-jester.gif

Nigel

07-01-2004, 18:33

Now the wages are payed, the money is handed out and the taverns are filled with the sound of song, laughter and merryment, as the fighters spend their hard earned Florins.

http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/gc-balloon.gif http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/medievalcheers.gif http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/gc-juggle.gif http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/gc-balloon.gif http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/barrel.gif http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/cheers.gif http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/barrel.gif http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/gc-balloon.gif

Unfortunatley, not everyone is able to join the feasting. Axeknight and Shaka are still missing, lost in the fog of the forests and trying to settle their, errrm, dispute over certain goods. Lets hope they will be with us soon and still get a bit of the party.

For someone else it is a bitter day, too. Tiger is still deeply in dept and his men, angry and frustrated at beeing left out on pay-day, have quit his service and are looking for a new employer. He himself, unable to pay what he owes, is thrown into the dungeon.

http://www.totalwar.org/patrons/story/Nigel_PBM_Dungeon2.jpg

Now Tiger, it is a hard fate. But it does not have to be the end.
There are still ways in which you could be saved.

1. I could send a petition to the King and ask for a pardon.

2. Your mercenary friends could put their money together and try to bribe the jailer.

3. The bandits could assault the prison and try to free you (and while they are there, plunder the prison safe).

However, for any of this to happen you will need to post here and show that you are still with us.
If you want to stay in the game, please respond here within 7 days.
If we don't hear from you, I am afraid I have to call it Game Over for you.

octavian

07-01-2004, 20:42

i will rescue him if he shows up http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif just as long as dungeon doesn't = fortress http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/wink.gif

Xiahou Liao

07-01-2004, 21:16

Ugh Octavian, you beat me to it =( I was gonna say I'd rescue him but noooooooo.... I desperately need to see battle to plunder and raise my florins. http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/gc-wall.gif

Axeknight

07-01-2004, 23:26

Gah I wish I could join your partying. Save some mead for the Duke and his squire http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/wave.gif

Xiahou and Shaka, are you free 8PM GMT on saturday? And Xiahou, will you command the v4 peasants?

Axeknight

07-01-2004, 23:33

Forgot to mention, as I'm getting 600fl from this mission no matter what happens to the shipment (though I'm holding out for the full 850), I will have some fl left over after I get home.

I will lend Tiger 100fl if I lose the shipment, and 200fl if I keep it safe. I will expect a 20% interest on the repayment within a month, however (that's a total of 120fl if the shipment goes to Shaka, and 240fl if I keep it safe).

Tempting as it may be to splash out on mead and courtesans to console myself on missing the big party, I shall help out a fellow mercenary in need http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif .

Amatsu

07-02-2004, 03:29

A messenger charged into Amatsu's palace once again. "Sir, we have recieved word that Octavian shall welcome us in the coming battle, he himself however, could not donate the florins."

Amatsu, always annoyed by his messengers, "Alright, go on. Who did pay it."

"Kyodai. But he has some terms"

Amatsu took a moment to reflect on his fortunes. First he promises to aid Octavian in his battle, a bandit who had embarassed him earlier. Then, he recieves aid from Kyodai, another bandit, that also embarassed him. "What are they?"

"You must pay back the full sum of florins, plus 20."

"That seems reasonable."

"You must also put up a ranged unit of yours, that should you fail, will be turned over to his command."

"That seems a little less reasonable." Amatsu paused, "We have no other choice, send to Kyodai a unit of my archers."

Amatsu shifted his weight forward, he had thought if things had went well with the transfer of florins maybe he would avenge his loss and stab Octavian in the back. That no longer appears to be an option.. too much at stake. He wondered what the potential consequences would be... putting a strain on the relationship with Chimpyang could be dealt with easily enough, but Longshanks is a powerful man, and he will not take losing his castle lightly. "Whatever the consequences,"

The messenger looked at Amatsu,with a confused look on his face.

"We ride towards the castle now. Bring me my armor. I may have to lead this attack personally."

octavian

07-02-2004, 03:44

right then, we attack during the weekend, since steeleye wants forty florins given to him in exchange for his support. i will cover the additional 20.

KyodaiSteeleye

07-02-2004, 13:48

no, twenty is just fine - even i would think 40% interest was a little steep... - of course if you want to make a donation to the 'hobby horse benevolent fund' then be my guest...

Kenchi_Shaka

07-02-2004, 17:04

yes that should work for me.

Axeknight

07-02-2004, 17:24

K Shaka http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/gc-2thumbsup.gif

That okay for you too, Xiahou? What's your GS account name? Will you command the peasants?

Xiahou Liao

07-02-2004, 19:40

Ay, Ay. So far so good, Saturday's free.

My GS name is Yukimura Sanada.

Axeknight

07-02-2004, 20:18

Great - saturday it is then. See you on the field, guys

Fitzjohn kicked the ground, not for the first time. "Damn this fog"
"Sir, some of the Scots rankers say it's clearing. They say the fog'll be gone by tomorrow morning, Sir." Langland offered, as he slowly worked the whetstone on his sword. Fitzjohn visibly relaxed at this.
"Thank God, Langland Let us hope they are right. We can go nowhere as long as this devil's mist surrounds us."
"Aye, Sir, but neither can the bandits." Langland said apprehensively, as he packed the whetstone back into his saddlebag.

Langland slept restlessly that night. Tomorrow, they would be able to move again, but so would the bandits jealously eyeing up their shipment.

Xiahou Liao

07-03-2004, 05:34

8PM GMT would be 3PM EST right? o.o; Only thing that might hender me is Keith, the dude that's hiring me at McDonalds( STFU I'M DESPERATE. >O ), may have work tomorrow and call me in for orientation, but I called to see if he will be in tomorrow, and they said they weren't 100% sure. http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/gc-wall.gif

But so far, I have all day tomorrow and probably will be doing this... http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/gc-computer.gif

Axeknight

07-03-2004, 19:46

GAH I can't play tonight. Sorry guys. I'm free anytime Monday. Sorry http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/frown.gif

Xiahou Liao

07-03-2004, 19:47

Axeknight

07-03-2004, 22:20

I know. I'm so sorry http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/frown.gif

Kenchi_Shaka

07-04-2004, 17:54

monday evening doesnt work for me...
i can play at latest at 5 gmt.

but nigel has delayed my payday allready....

shaka

Chimpyang

07-04-2004, 22:05

ermm..i'm confused....who's attacking me? Also we need to fix a decent time to play it at.

Axeknight

07-04-2004, 22:06

Which times are good for you, Shaka?

Nigel

07-04-2004, 22:36

That’s a pity, Axeknight, that you could not do the battle on Saturday. But it’s good to let us know - always better than just not turning up and leaving people to wait.

However, if someone agrees to a date, then a no-show or a last minute cancellation usually mean that the battle is forfeit and the benefit of the mission goes to the other party (we did this with Sulla and Dion, too).

So I say that, for leaving my peasants alone on Saturday, this mission will have to go to Shaka.

I'll have a thought about the details and let you know in a moment. http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/wink.gif
Nigel

Axeknight

07-04-2004, 22:49

That's fine. Shaka gets the full shipment, however. He needs the cash. I forfeit. http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/shogunshame.gif

Do I get any money now? Or must Duke Fitzjohn escape from the dungeon?

Nigel

07-04-2004, 23:22

From behind his desk, Sir Nigel looked up at Langland, Duke Fitzjon's squire, who had brought the message. Then he turned back to raging over the letter. "... urgent and unpostponable matters ??? .... having to leave the peasants behind and move on ... ??? Well, that was hardly what I hired you for. It may interest you that the bandit Shaka found my servants a few hours later, and they only escaped with their lives by handing over the whole shipment to him. You won't see a penny from me for this"

Nigel looked Langland over again. The squire stood rigid, maintaining his composure. Starved and miserable, his clothes were worn and dirtied from a week in the forest. His eyes rimmed from lack of sleep he was suppressing a cough, which would turn into a nasty cold in a few days - the result of several nights spent outside in the fog.

"Ahh well, you boys did put an effort into this mission, I can see that. Don't like to see you men suffer, only because your Duke Fitzjon had "urgent business" elsewhere. OK, I'll give you 300 Florins, half of the money you would have got for the fight. But now begone, and tell your Duke to be careful and spend the money wisely."

Langland breathed a sigh of relieve. Money was urgently needed as only 200 Florins remained in the Duke's coffers and payment of the troops was overdue. With the extra 300 Florins, it was still not enough to pay everyone and there would still be a few disappointed faces and some of the men would be demoralized. But the Duke would be spared the humiliation of debtors prison, at least for now. And surely the coming month would bring a more successful mission. Langland quickly rode off to deliver the news.

Axeknight

07-04-2004, 23:37

Thank you Nigel http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/bigthumb.gif I actually expected to get nothing, so thank you again http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/gc-2thumbsup.gif

184 fl short, huh? Okay, Id rather not lose any valour from anyone. I'm going to lay off two bands of clansmen.

In fact, I may decide to disband the other two bands later, there's very little I can do with them. Disband two bands now, Nigel, then I'll get back to you tomorrow. I may disband the other two for one FMAA unit.

Nigel

07-04-2004, 23:40

ohh and Chimpyang, yes, things can get a bit confusing at times http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/gc-smile.gif

well, basically what happened is this :

Octavian "pulled back" from the battle and asked for reinforcements.
You were awarded 200 Florins for "scaring him off".
Now Octavian and Amtsu are attacking you together.

And yes, it will be good to agree a definite day and time between the three of you.

Axeknight

07-04-2004, 23:52

"My Duke? My Duke, are you awake?" Langland shook Fitzjohn lightly.
"I am, Langland. What did the merchant say?"
"He was very angry at me, sir." Though I'm pretty used to that by now. "He gave me 300 florins, half our price. He said never to do this again, or he would personally..." he trailed off, not wanting to be screamed at for the second time in as many days,
"Or he would personally what, Langland?"

Xiahou Liao

07-05-2004, 03:29

Dum de dum...

Kenchi_Shaka

07-05-2004, 07:56

phew..... :P
sadly we couldnt play tho, would have been interresting, i think. mayb an other mission http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/wink.gif

...time again for the more important things of life... http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/handball.gif

shaka

KyodaiSteeleye

07-05-2004, 19:15

Hi Nigel,

I noticed that my ransomed company of highlanders are not on my army list anymore - have they deserted or just gone on holiday?

http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/gc-anxious.gif

Nigel

07-05-2004, 20:14

err, http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/confused.gif missing highlanders ? Checking.

Yes, You are right, there should be another unit of them. Where have they gone? http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/confused.gif

Ahh, I know, they went AWOL when Amatsus archers turned up in your company. LOL, my mistake. The´re probably still in the nearest pub. I will send my squire to go and get them. They should be sobered up and with you again tomorrow or so. http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/barrel.gif

And Axeknight, I am afraid you will still loose some valour from some units. When you release troops from service, you are not getting the buying money refunded - that is a loss and you are merely reducing salary cost.

So your 2 Feudal Sargeants still go down to v0. I guess that works out best with the money you have.

Well, there are lots of new missions open. Mission #9, #10 and #11 are still looking for a mercenary.

Nigel

07-05-2004, 20:36

Also, the wood delivery (mission #3 (http://www.totalwar.org/cgi-bin/forum/ikonboard.cgi?act=ST&f=18&t=17790&st=75&&#entry310754)) has been delayed for quite a while. By now a total of 400 lots have accumulated and local prices have dropped to 3 Florins apiece. I am quite keen to get this wood delivered before prices go down even further and will increase the pay to 800 Florins plus 400 Florins delivery bonus. If necessary I will oversee the peasants myself (In fact, I'd quite like to http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/gc-smile.gif. Preferred battle times: weekday evenings GMT).

Nigel

07-05-2004, 20:49

... and finally managed to upload the replay of missino 8 (http://www.totalwar.org/Downloads/Mtw_Uploads/MTWrecords/Nigel_MB1_Mission_8.zip).

http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/gc-clown.gif

Nigel

07-05-2004, 22:10

And one more bit of news.

Thanks to TosaInu and CBR, everyone in the game is now given Member status. And every member can now freely choose their avatar. How do you like my new face ?
http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/gc-toff.gif

Thanks Tosa,
http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/gc-2thumbsup.gif

Nigel

07-06-2004, 18:17

Just happened to meet Guy and Shaka online, and spontaneously decided to have a go at mission #3.

Will be interesting to see how it goes.... http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/gc-juggle.gif

Nigel

07-06-2004, 22:26

Well, I think that was the fastest arranging for a mission that happened so far, lol. A good mission too.

Guy just bought 2 mounted seargeants to replace the losses from his battle with Octavian. Then we went into a battle with lots of maneuvering and actually very little bloodshed. Guy did very well, shepherding my vulnerable peasants across a valley, with Shaka's men dauntingly waiting on the other side.... The 4 units of peasants reached safety in the end with only 29 goods lost to the bandit.

The replay is here. (http://www.totalwar.org/Downloads/Mtw_Uploads/MTWrecords/Nigel_MB1_Mission_3.zip).

Kenchi_Shaka

07-06-2004, 23:14

hehe, jus earned enough for my men to drink a beer...:P http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/medievalcheers.gif
still was good fun ... http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif
thx for the game, guy and nigel.

i would like to expand my army by a mounted crossbow unit and an arbalest, each valor 0.

regards shaka

Kenchi_Shaka

07-07-2004, 09:19

btw, wot should happen if a units gains valor during a game?

Nigel

07-07-2004, 21:28

That's a good point, Shaka.
In fact, Octavian also mentioned this earlier.

I thought about it too, only thing I am worrying a little is, that there could be an inflation of valour. But maybe those worries are unfounded.

I could say : submit a screenshot of the endscreen, and if a unit has earned one or more valour, it gets one valour increase for permanent.

What do you guys think ? Good or bad idea ?
http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/gc-gossip.gif

octavian

07-07-2004, 21:33

@Ang, about that castle battle. this might be a battle for your lieutenant to play. A) amatsu and i are both GMT -5, you are GMT. B) amatsu and i usually play late at night our time. and by late i mean after 11:00 PM. therefore, if you could find a lieutenant somewhere in GMT -5 to GMT -8 or so, that would make things easier.

edit:@ nigel, would this valour end up costing money (in support costs) or would this be "free" valour? also, i think it should be limited to one valour per unit, so that you couldn't have a unit jump up by two or more valour in just one battle.

Nigel

07-07-2004, 21:54

This valour would still contribute to support costs.
You give out medals and promote your men, they expect higher salary (plus, I cant / dont want to keep track of two different types of valour - too complicated).

It would be "free" in the sense that you don't have to pay an initial cost for it (which is usually around 70% of the unit value).

With this increasing the support cost, of course, players will have the option to decide wether or not they want to make user of this potential benefit (as it could backfire if you are already short on cash). I think it is best if players have to claim their right to a valour increase by submitting the endscreen.jpg. You dont want it, you just dont claim it - easy.

And limiting it to one valour per unit per battle is a good idea too. http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/gc-2thumbsup.gif

UglyGuy

07-07-2004, 22:03

I'm for the idea of the valor being raised if it happens in a battle. It may be a little too complicated keeping track of the valor of units before and after battles. Plus the record of what upkeep is owed along with what valor all troops are to be at all times. Sooooooooooooo here goes.

We raise the valor if it happens in battle "take a shot" and raise the valor of the unit, it becomes record on unit chart and you get one full month free. Then you pay for whatever upkeep shows on your chart.

Thanks

Guy

Kenchi_Shaka

07-08-2004, 00:17

as far as i know the log should show if a unit gained valor.

shaka

Xiahou Liao

07-08-2004, 13:46

I'm lost. http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/handball.gif

and still waiting for...I forgot which mercenary I was fighting. http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/gc-oops.gif

Xiahou Liao

07-08-2004, 15:08

Oh wait, I'm not fighting one yet. HURRY MERCENARIES. Bleh, I be sad if it turns out no one takes it and I end up in debt. :o

Chimpyang

07-08-2004, 16:53

If we set a time of around 12:00 midnight for you guys and i'll gladly get up at about 5 ish to play you.

Nigel

07-08-2004, 17:57

Xiahou Liao

I just see that you signed up for mission #9 on June 20th. That is well over 14 days ago. And still no mercenary is willing to take it on. http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/ceasarno.gif

Well, I really want to get this silverware home to my castle soon and if noone wants to help me, I will do it myself. I am sure for the money I offered, I can also hire some men from the city guard.

So unless one of the mercenaries steps foreward, how about trying it this Sunday, 20:00 GMT ?

http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/ht_knight.gif

Chimpyang

07-08-2004, 20:06

How about it being transported to lord longshanks's castle. Since it is only 15km from your country house he is more than happy to keep your treasure safe in his underground safe whilst you find a mercenary to take your silverware the rest of the way to your castle. (This could also up the stakes of the castle battle, the extra merc could also be coming to relive the siege and take the shipment away ie the defenders try to get 2 units of peasents or whatever out of the caslte and onto the edge of the board whils the bandits attmept to capture the loot and get the castle.)

Xiahou Liao

07-08-2004, 20:50

Sure Sunday 20:00 GMT..that'd be...15:00 for me...Hmm 3 O'clock sounds nice.

and Chimpyang...wouldn't that be slightly gyping me ? >>

Nigel

07-08-2004, 21:24

LOL, Chimpyang, nice idea.
A lovely twist to the Longshanks story. http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/cool.gif

Still, I got to get the silver to the castle in the first place (and I don't want to "gyp" Xiahou out of an opportunity to do the mission). So, yes, I will be as fast as I can, but if Xiahou should waylay me on the way there, ..... well, I hope at least something will get through.

Also, if you have already agreed on a date for the castle mission, I would go ahead and not delay it again to wait for my goods. But if you haven't, yes, there may be added value to that mission after Sunday. http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif

So, Xiahou, we are on for Sunday, then. Any Merc who still turns up, I will gladly give him the mission and be happy to command the peasants for it. But if noone shows, I will see if I get some city guards as escort.

Nigel

07-08-2004, 23:16

oh, and Shaka. Dou you have a logfile reader, which displayes the valour your units have gained?

The logfile itself shows the valour for each single soldier, and to work out an average valour gain for each unit is pretty tedious, even with Excel. I dont want to get into that, if I can avoid it http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/flat.gif

Expanded your army, btw. It should show up shortly. http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/handball.gif

Kenchi_Shaka

07-08-2004, 23:47

ok, thx nigel http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif

i use this online logfile reader here, i hope the link works for u.

http://www.thiep.com/cgi-bin/ffmtw/logread.pl

it shows how much valor the unit gained, but the numbers are odd, most of times below 0. http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/gc-dizzy2.gif
i dunno how useful it is.

shaka

Xiahou Liao

07-09-2004, 03:55

Hmm man, 14 days? I've been sitting at my computer for 14 days waiting???? http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/gc-computer.gif

Xiahou Liao

07-09-2004, 04:02

:: cheesy monster truck rally music and a cheesy deep voice. ::

Sunday Sunday Someday

The ultimate tourniment

:: Gasp???? ::

Oh no The dreadful...

http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/handball.gif

HANDBALL

Nigel

07-09-2004, 15:17

Shaka, thanks, I will try it out and see if the numbers make sense with the games we have had so far.

Xiahou, you sure are looking forward to your mission. I only hope you didn't stop breathing with all the tension building up http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/wink.gif. But yes, I am looking forward to Sunday, too.

And one more thing I have to do now.
Tiger VX has been in the dungeon for more than 7 days now and we have not had a word from him. So it is my sad duty to remove him from the list. Thanks for playing, Tiger. I hope you enjoyed the time, while you were here.

On the plus side: there is now a new place open for another mercenary. And anyone who is interested is wellcome to join. http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/gc-clown.gif

Axeknight

07-09-2004, 16:39

I'm sorry I couldn't help spring Tiger from the dungeon. Because I'm only hanging on by the skin of my teeth as is, I can't really spare any funds to help. Sorry, mate http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/frown.gif

Nigel, scratch the Urban militia, and both remaining clansmen units. There's absolutely no use for 'em. Hopefully, I'll be able to afford something better next month.

Wait, can I sell my units? Cause If I can, I have UM for half the price of a new set (75fl), and 2 clansmen units for 50fl each for anyone who wants 'em.

Xiahou Liao

07-09-2004, 17:04

Yes...Yes I am...'cuz...I'm bored...with nothing to do...

So I think I'll take my girlfriend out again tonight. lol.

http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/handball.gif

Crazed Rabbit

07-10-2004, 00:28

I have spent many hours reading most of the preceding pages in this thread, and this certainly looks like an interesting and fun concept.

So, I would like to see if I could join the merry bands of mercenaries and bandits fighting for consumer goods
http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/medievalcheers.gif http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/barrel.gif http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/medievalcheers.gif
I haven't chosen a faction, nor whether or not I'll be a bandit or mercenary (though right now I'm leaning towards a mercenary).

I live on the west coast of the good ole U.S. of A, which means, I think, that I am 8 hours behind GMT. Also, due to my firewall, I cannot host. Luckily, though, I am free practically the whole day, due to school being over and whatnot.

I will await your reply with tredipation.

Crazed Rabbit

Xiahou Liao

07-11-2004, 05:10

Today Today is the day that I die I mean waitNoooo I was singing a song by Dope X_o

http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/handball.gif

Nigel

07-11-2004, 10:11

Axeknight, thus far I have said that you cannot sell units back to the bank. It makes sense, you have given them money for their equippment and for signing up with you, and when you fire them, you cannot expect them to pay you back.

But they are still mercnaries, not too fussed about who they eventually work for. So, yes, if someone offers you a good "transfer-sum", you can send them to fight in somebody elses army. I know this is game not supposed to be Footbball Manager http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/wink.gif But I could imagine that deals like this were also made in the olden days. So if any other player offers you some money for the units you want to get rid off, that's fine by me http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/gc-smile.gif .

Crazed Rabbit, wellcome to the game http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/medievalcheers.gif
I am glad you like the thread and am sure you will have a lot of fun here. West coast USA (GMT-8) of course can be tough to arrange battles. But I am no friend of geographical restrictions, and if you are free during the day, it should not be a problem. Later, when school starts again, I would recommend finding a European lieutenant.

But for now, all you need to do is choose your faction and choose your side (don't worry too much over it, you can change sides later if you find you have made a mistake now). Then you can set up your army. If you give me your e-mail address, I can send you an excel spreadsheet, which will help you calculate the unit support cost you are expected to pay at the end of the month. With that, you should be ready to go.

Good Luck and Have Fun http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/bigthumb.gif

Xiahou Liao

07-11-2004, 17:07

Today blood will spill :o

http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/handball.gif

Nigel

07-11-2004, 18:39

LOL, Xiao, calm down.

I am beginning to worry that you will faint on the battlefield with an overdose of adrenaline. And then, what do I do ... http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/gc-stunned.gif http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/wink.gif

But yea, it is time to get the swords sharpened indeed.
I have been able to get a few militia men from the town guard. Not really a match for a well equipped bandit gang. But with a bit of luck, they may just slip through...

Still, if any of the mercenaries turns up at 8:00pm GMT, I am happy to hand over the command to them.

.... just over one hour to go .... http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/gc-inquisitive.gif

Xiahou Liao

07-11-2004, 18:51

Liao stares Nigel down acrossed the open field. It was quiet, and the wind blew softly. Just then...a desert tumbleweed rumbled through the green grass and confused Liao. Then he whipped out the Handball...and lost all concentration.

http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/gc-inquisitive.gif

Stare, stare, stare

Xiahou Liao

07-11-2004, 18:55

Oh...I hope my Anti-virus is done soon... http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/angry.gif

Chimpyang

07-11-2004, 19:12

I can help you there my friend (and employer) {those two dont go togeather that well} i am willing to send my 2 units of Turcopoles to help you out.

Nigel

07-11-2004, 19:31

Chimpyang sends out his two Turcopole units from Longshank's castle.
They spur their horses and hurry to Nigels help.

A bold move, for Chimpyang knows quite well {does he?} that, if the castle should be attacked soon, these riders may not return in time to help in the defence. But Chimpyang is willing to take this risk....

Thanks, Chimpyang http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/gc-smile.gif

KyodaiSteeleye

07-11-2004, 22:52

Guillaume the Colt was having a bad week... earlier, one company of clansmen had broken camp in the night and gone out to find their own prey. It was only swift action by sending scouts out to find them and persuade them to return (through a certain amount of violence) that stopped them from deserting and becoming common-all highway robbers.

The dogs were restless - nearly a month had passed without a single shipment coming through the hills. Maybe the merchants had stopped trying to get goods through, and were instead diverting them along the coast? It was a danger, and Guillaume knew that those areas were laid claim by other 'free knights'. All he could hope for was that a shipment came through soon, otherwise he may have to take matters into his own hands....

Nigel

07-11-2004, 23:03

Aye, Steeleye, it seems we are really having a shortage of Mercenaries right now. I would really get that shipment of pepper from mision #10 delivered before it turns bad. Anyone willing to do it ? I am increasing the pay to 800 Florins and doubling the bonus

Meanwhile for mission #9, Chimpyang's turcopoles have made it in time to help protect my silverware. Taking charge of the peasants as well, he manouvered them very skillfully and managed to sneak them past Liao's army without any losses. https://forums.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/gc-2thumbsup.gif

I was much relived to see my silver safe and unscratched - for this time at least. The bandit, however, took his revenge, beat the militia guards and sent them runnig and routing. But alas, for Liao it was only fame but no Florins this time...

Now my silver is well under way to Lord Longshank's castle, guarded by Chimpyang's 2 turcopole units.

What does this mean for the castle battle?
It would be cool if we could have a scenario, where the silverware and Turcopoles arrive on the map as reinfocements and have to make a run for the safety of the castle. That would mean a 2v2 battle. Are we going to achieve that with players on both sides of the Atlantic ?

Well, we could try. If I am to command the peasants myself, it would have to be one of next week's workday evenings - say Wednesday between 8 and 11 pm GMT Alternatively, I have no objection to Liao acting as my lieutenant and commanding the peasants.

On the other hand, Octavian and Amatsu may decide that they would rather take advantage of the absence of Chimpyang's turcopoles and attack before they return. Please let us know Octavian (as you are the pricipal bandit in this mission) what you want to do.

Xiahou Liao

07-12-2004, 00:56

Stupid Turcolpelelelslselslelsl thingies...

http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/handball.gif

Kenchi_Shaka

07-12-2004, 04:22

lemme know when that mega mission gonna be :O

http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/handball.gif

Nigel

07-12-2004, 20:17

Chimpyang, of course, shall also receive a reward for his help in the last mission. Not the full payment, since he only sent two units of turcopoles. But the bonus of 200 Florins, Chimpyang, it shall be yours. No one shall say I dont know what gratitude is.

And those turcopoles really made the difference in that battle http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif.

Axeknight

07-12-2004, 21:05

Fitzjohn rocked on the balls of his feet. His chainmail coat was starting to become uncomfortable, especially in the blistering summer heat.

But he had worn it here for intimidation purposes. He really needed money, after the last assignment. He had left the shipment, and the merchant's favourites, to rot when he heard the rumours of a count speaking English riding with the French. He had lost the shipment, and the rumours had been false. Damn it all A retainer poked his head around the door. On seeing Fitzjohn's face, his screwed up,
"Oh, it's you. The merchant will see you now, I suppose. This way, unless you have somewhere better to go." Fitzjohn didn't reply, making his hands into fists. I deserve it. At least to him.

"No. Never, ever, ever, ever will I let you take another shipment. I think you know why, Duke Fitzjohn."
"I am truly sorry for the last shipment, but..." Fitzjohn never got to finish,
"No That is final, Duke. I cannot trust you with anything" Sir Loreing slammed his fist on the table.
"But you yourself said this shipment was worthless, why does it matter to you?" Quiet reason. then violence. The merchant sighed.
"If you wish it, Duke Fitzjohn. You speak the truth; I know not what to do with this pepper." Loreing said quietly. Fitzjohn smirked,
"I do."

I'll take mission 10. Hopefully, with Steeleye in the UK, we won't have problems with timezones. I can't host, Steeleye, so either you have to host, or we get someone to take the peasants

BTW, Nigel, part 6 of Fitzjohn is up, in case you haven't read it http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/wink.gif
EDIT- You'll also note I 'medievalised' your name http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif

Nigel

07-14-2004, 17:37

Ok, Axeknight, you got signed up to mission #10. Little do I care for this odd and exotic foodstuff, and if your Duke has to rush off to sort out his "other important business" again, I couldn't care less. But still, Good Luck with it.

The castle attack may well turn into a big thing, provided we can get 4 of us together on Thursday evening. We shall see what happens.

Meanwhile, here comes another mission.

-------------------------------------------------------------- Mission #12 --------------------------------------------------------------

I am still determined to get into the linen markets of Bulgaria. Therefor I have prepared another shipment to go to Turnovo, 200 boxes this time. Unfortunately, local linen prices have fallen to 8 Florins, but I should still make a much higher profit from each box that gets to Turnovo.

I will pay 900 Florins for a mercenary willing to take on the task and I am offering a bonus of 300 Florins upon successful completion. This bonus will double, if more than 80% of the shipment reaches the destination.

But beware, it is rumored that a gang of bandits is roaming the area and may try to intercept the transport.

Signed up as Mercenary : Xiahou Liao
Signed up as Bandit # # # : Octavian
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ------------------------------------------------------

Map details :
1v1, bul1_practice.
Summer, Western European, 60 min, Mercenaries = attackers.

KyodaiSteeleye

07-14-2004, 19:10

At last I have heard information that the merchant wishes to bring his shipment through within the next week.

In preparation for an engagement, I have given my company of mounted sergeants 123 florins from my chest, so improving their morale (Guillaume's bodyguards to V1).

I still appear to have Amatsu's archers hanging around - therefore i will make use of them in the coming battle - lets see how a mercenary company fights with my rebel scum

Xiahou Liao

07-14-2004, 21:07

Thursday? Better be late...'cuz Thursday, July 15th, 2004, at 16:00 EST, I have an orientation to go to, to get my information about my job, my work clothes and other stuff.

octavian

07-14-2004, 22:24

XL, i dont think you are part of the thursday battle. https://forums.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/wink.gif

Nigel

07-14-2004, 23:07

Steeleye, it seems your dogs are going to get their pray at last. Well, they got to hunt it first, though. I have heared the Duke packs an iron punch if need be https://forums.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/wink.gif.

I will update your info shortly. As for Amatsu's archers, they were given to you as hostages, to be returned save and sound when Amatsu payes you back. So you had better not get them killed, or you will have some explaining to do.

As for Thursday, I still have not had word of Amatsu. Octavain, Chimpyang and Shaka (as spectator) are fine with the date and time (20:00 GMT). But Amatsu has yet to say whether he can make it or if he is ok with Shaka acting as his lieutenant.

We cannot really just do the mission without him knowing, so I am not sure if it can go ahead. Well, I am gonna be on anyway and if nothing else, we can just have a good ole game of standard MTW. Let's see.

Xiahou Liao, you may not be in this battle, but if you do turn up, you are of course wellcome to watch. And there is also mission #12 now looking for a bandit.

And misson #11 still has no mercenary. Well, matters are pressing, and I do know that the infameous Octavian is after the goods. So before I send them off without any protection, I may be willing to have them escorted by, errmmm, a fighter who is not registered with the mercenaries guild, but has no (or not a big) criminal record..... https://forums.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/gc-bandana.gif

Xiahou Liao

07-15-2004, 06:49

I claim mission 12

Oh and I was thinking maybe I could've hosted tomorrow's battle you know? o.o;; That's what I meant. :p I have fast DSL...512/756
...Like hell I'm going to Fight Octavian. H E L L N O

Nigel

07-15-2004, 22:39

ok, XL, you got mission #12 http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/bigthumb.gif
I can understand about not fighting Octavian http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif

Meanwhile the Forum is having some problems, as you have probably noticed. Tosa and his staff are working on it. You can check the homepage of the .org for more info.

You also see that some army-pictures are not working. I hope this is only temporary and can get sorted soon. In any case I still have a backup of everyone's current army on my HD. Just drop me an e-mail if you need it.

Oh, and the castle mission did go ahead tonight. http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/gc-2thumbsup.gif
Anyone doing a writeup ?
Stay tuned.

octavian

07-16-2004, 00:50

Quote[/b] (Xiahou Liao @ July 15 2004,01:49)]I claim mission 12

Oh and I was thinking maybe I could've hosted tomorrow's battle you know? o.o;; That's what I meant. :p I have fast DSL...512/756
...Like hell I'm going to Fight Octavian. H E L L N O
aww, y not?? http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif

nigel, i shall try to find time to write you a little stroy about that mission of ours.

octavian

07-16-2004, 01:17

~The Fall of Lord Longshanks Castle~
As Written By Cornelieus Hood, Adjutant to Octavian the Hun.

We arrived, for the second time, at Lord Longshanks Castle. As the stone walls once again came within sight, our mens spirits rose. Perhaps they could now wipe away the stain of dishonour that had been cast upon them by their leaders cowardly retreat from the castle only days earlier.

The excitement didn't last, the men could tell something was bothering Octavian, and rumours began to circulate. Soon it became apparent what the problem was. Amatsu, the turncoat that he was, was nowhere to be found.

"He must come, he must" Octavian paced back and forth through the knee high grass, lookng not towards, but away from the castle. "His men will kill him if he doesn't fight this battle, surely he knows that." Just then far on the horizon, small puffs of dust began to appear. A murmur ran across the crowd of men. A young aide, shaded his eyes from the rising sun and looked north.

"I don't think it is Amatsu m'lord, too few, and from the wrong direction."

"Aye" Octavian, nodding sagely, "that will be Chimpyangs lieutenant, Nigel, returning with Chimpyangs cavalry, and more silver.
I had hoped to be in the castle before he arrived, but perhaps this is better"

At that very moment, shouts went up from the men, wheeling on his heel Octavian prepared to berate them into silence. Then he heard what they were cheering.

"AMATSU AMATSU" Rose the cries. Riding swiftly, Amatsu's vanguard galloped up to Octavian, halted, and then, on command, dismounted. Still mounted, the Officer in charge rode up.

"Amatsu was unable to come, he has taken ill these past few days. He has sent me in his stead however, with all of his army."

Octavian nodded, then, silently, signalled his officers to assemble the troops.

In just a few moments, the bandits were ready to march. Octavian ordered the two catapults placed on two hills on the Eastern side of the castle. Allowing him to break into both the upper and lower sections of the castle. Meanwhile, Amatsus lieutenant, Shaka prepared to give Nigel a warm reception. Placing one unit of Mounted Sergeants in the woods near the castle gate while setting the rest of his cav on our left flank, facing north.

As the first stones began to fly, he marched most of his cav towards Nigel, keeping his ambush near the gate hidden. At first, Octavian gave orders to his horse archers to support Shaka but just moments after giving the order, he recalled them. Instead, he sent one unit of mounted sergeants to the castle gate.

The ambush succeded, and not a one of the servants carrying the silver escaped. On a hill overlooking the castle, Octavian smiled, calculating the loot.

"1200 florins i reckon, 57% of which is mine." his aide de camp, startled by the sudden comment, stammered for a moment.

"Y-y-yess sir, just what i was about to say myself."

Octavian snorted, "I'm sure Gustavus, I'm sure, it seems no matter what i say, i always steal the words right from your mouth."

Gustavus, stammered again, searching for the right words, then decided to agree. "Yes sir, my thoughts exactly" then, judging from Octavians stare that he had said the wrong thing, "I-I mean, not at all sir"

Octavian spat, then strode forward to gain a better view of the soldiers riding back with the loot. "They will get shot if they aren't careful." Almost in answer to his words, a rider slumped in the saddle. "Fools"

more 2 come https://forums.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif

Chimpyang

07-16-2004, 14:01

I really could have done with the help, in the end the sheer mass of FMAA got to me and I didnt have enough troops to cover everything.

Nigel

07-16-2004, 19:46

Nice story, octavian. Looking forward to part two https://forums.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/gc-smile.gif

Well Chimpyang, they were too many in the end, indeed. Bad luck that Liao's act of revenge on the militia men of the previous mission meant that they were not available in the castle battle. The bandits sure owe him a favour now....

Still, and without wanting to pre-empt the second part of Octavian's story, Lord Longshanks was lucky to escape with his life and grudgingly payed you the promised 900 Florins. Octavian and Amatsu meanwhile divide the rich spoils of the mission 57%:43% as they had agreed beforehand.

And some of their troops have gained valour, too, which I will update later.
https://forums.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/ht_knight.gif

Amatsu

07-16-2004, 21:14

I will take the valor upgrade. :) Also, don't I get my bowman back from Kyodai as the battle was won, and I can effectively pay off his loan to me? Also, I'd like to reward Shaka with 100 florins from my loot, for acting at the head of my army. It may not be much, but as I learned, 100 can go a long way. And please pay Kyodai back :) I wonder if I'll have any left after this... hehe. Regardless.. Some might wonder, what happened to Amatsu...?

Amatsu road in the front of his men, as he often does. "Advisor?" It took several minutes for the advisor to show up, making Amatsu wonder exactly where he was.

His advisor road up as fast as he could, but was quite a long ways away from Amatsu. Amatsu always had this policy of keeping his advisor far away from him, though nobody knows exactly why. "What is it mi'lord?"

"How much farther is it to this blasted castle?"

"Several days yet sir."

"I am without sleep or food since we left many nights ago. Curse that Octavian. If the money was so good, I'd never agree to help him." Amatsu lowered his head and closed his eyes. "It's one thing to destroy my reputation amongst the mercenaries... but to help a bandit? Why did I ever agree to this advisor?"

"So the men didn't declare a mutiny and kill you in the resulting panic sir."

"Yes, that's right." Amatsu continued thinking... "What if I didn't lead the troops myself?" He paused, still deep in thought, "And gave command of my troops to another Bandit for a mission? At the reward of 100 florins."

"Awfully cheap, if you ask me." Replied the advisor, almost mocking his master.

"No more than it would cost to have you executed. 100 florins can go along way, especially to one that doesn't have to lead his own army into battle. I can simply put the word out that this bandit, seeking his own glory, fought me hard until he convinced me to drink some tea. Where he promptly drugged me. He then returned to my men, used a pocket watch to hyponotize them all into thinking they were also bandits, and used them for his own evil deeds in helping his fellow bandit. My reputation is saved, booty is gained, it's a win win"

"A cunning strategem as always sir, but what bandit would answer YOUR call?"

Just as the words rolled off the advisors tongue, they came across Shaka, who agreed to lead Amatsu's men to aid Octavian, as a 100 florin award. Though, he wasn't told the story about how a rumour would be put out that he cowardly drugged Amatsu and then brainwashed his troops.

"Well then, with that taken care of... I will ride back to town, and get some sleep. I leave things in your hand Shaka." https://forums.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/medievalcheers.gif

And there you have it, a logical explination for why I couldn't make the battle. lol, though in reality, I simply overslept. https://forums.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/gc-oops.gif

Xiahou Liao

07-16-2004, 21:48

Bleh. Stupid Turcopoles.

KyodaiSteeleye

07-17-2004, 00:18

A tired messenger arrived in the morning, with a message from Amatsu and a backpack of silver cutlery. Guillaume inspected its contents.. 'What's this?''I said 140 florins, not some snivelling silver trinkets'. The messenger looked uncomfortable 'This is what Amatsu sends, the silverware covers the loan and he asks that your hostages are allowed to return with me'.

'Bloody cheek - well, i suppose i should let them go - on reflection i don't want any poxy mercenaries running away like women when Axeknight appears with those seeds anyway - be off with you before i change my mind'.

Amatsu's archers were on the road soon after - Guillaume got the impression that they indeed were quite happy not to stick around to be forced to fight and in the process become marked men. Guillaume spat on the ground 'good riddance - Buiselm, didn't you notice a funny smell around here when those archers were around? - never mind - well, we're short of some arrows now - send word to De la Rose that i'll pay him and his men 350 florins to join our little band.'

'oh, and get this tat melted down and sold to the silver merchant in town' he, said, tossing Nigel's heirlooms to his right-hand man.

1 unit of val 0 longbowmen, please, Nigel.

octavian

07-17-2004, 03:22

hey Nigel, i just realized from the logfile that i had a *slightly* different army. instead of 3 MS V1, i had 2 MS V2. quite frankly, i dont think it gave me an advantedge (if anything it made me worse) so i dont think that its an issue.

octavian

07-17-2004, 03:35

OK, nigel, here are my upgrades:
My V0 FMAA to V1
one pav XBow
one Mounted Sergeant V1

for what should be a total cost of 844, m not sure what my new support costs will be, but im sure ill have enough.

Nigel, will there be an option of having more than 16 units, and then pick and choose what units i want to use?

also, my general would like to take command of the new unit of Mounted Sergeants. ie three non gen units at V2, gen stays at V1.

edit, miscalculated the cost.

octavian

07-17-2004, 03:44

oh, and is anybody willing to play mission 11? please?

Xiahou Liao

07-17-2004, 04:31

Can I be on yourside instead, and like, we just charge the peasants? :D??????

I
AM
NOT
FIGHTING
YOUR HORSE ARCHERS
I
LEARNED
THAT
FROM THOSE
GOD DAMN TURCOPOLES
I HATE THEM
I WILL KILL THOSE UNITS CHIMPYANG WATCH ME

Anyone wanna play handball?
https://forums.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/handball.gif

Xiahou Liao

07-17-2004, 04:38

...Hey can I switch allegiance to Mercenary? The bandit life isn't just working for me... :o

Kenchi_Shaka

07-17-2004, 08:22

XL, block horse archers by foot archer fire. ;)
the horse is a bigger target and the footarchers are 60 men and not 40. https://forums.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/handball.gif

nice stories amatsu and octavian ;)

thx for the 100 fl btw https://forums.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/medievalcheers.gif

shaka

Nigel

07-17-2004, 14:52

Yes, very nice stories indeed https://forums.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/cool.gif
Let me pick them up...

Sir Nigel is sitting at his desk going through the paperwork.
There is a letter from the Guildmaster of the Mercenary Guild seeking his advice. A young commander is seeking admission to the guild for himself and his men. As he is suspected of not alwys having been lawful, the Guildmaster is asking for Nigel's opinion. Nigel looks over the criminal record of Xiahou Liao, a very short list indeed. A brawl with the city guard, a few threats issued in the taverns, but nothing ever actually stolen. That should be no problem. Besides, Nigel has prepared a shipment of linen to Turnovo is looking for someone to escort it. So he dips his quill into the ink and writes a letter, recommending to accept Xiahou Liao's application.

"Here", he calls to his secretary, "bing this letter over to the Mercenary Guild. I think we have someone to deliver out goods. But more importantly, have you word of out agent yet ?" Nigel had hired a spy to find out where his silverware had got to after the raid of Longshank's castle.

"Well, Sir, I have indeed. The bandit Octavian had more than half of it and your spy has been able to by them back at 12 Florins per box. The remaining silver Octavian had handed to Amatsu, and he too demanded the same price for it."

"Amatsu, now that is strong I turn blind eye at his little escapade with Longshanks, and he is selling my own silver back to me Gahh, I shall sue him for that and have him hanged or burned."

"Well, Sir, other people are trying to do that already, Sir. However it appears that Amatsu has spread a intreaguing story to explain these happenings. It involves another bandit, a cup of tea and a hypnotic pendulum and...."

"Yes, yes, I have heared that story. Who is gonna belive that anyway ?"

"Well, Sir, those who don't are talking of robbery and those who do are talking of witchcraft.
So it seems a dispute has arisen between the magistrate and the church. The matter has now been presented to the Doctores at the University to be discussed and decided."

"To be discussed at the University ?? You know what that means, don't you ? These scholars will now talk and debate for ages and no decision will ever come of it. I guess we can savely assume that we wont have any legal handle on Amatsu now for a few years to come (sigh). Well, one good thing the whole story has. Lord Longshanks now has other problems to take care of and won't bother my trading caravans with toll and taxes for quite a while. The money I am saving there may well be more than what Amatsu conned me out of. So he may be forgiven. And my set of silverware is save, too.That's good."

"Well, Sir, not exactly. It appears that Amatsu owed some money to another bandit and to pay this debt, he gave some pieces of your silver set to him."

"Another bandit ? Some pieces of my silver set ?? Which bandit ??? What pieces ????" https://forums.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/eek.gif

"Well, Sir, it is the bandit Steeleye, who is by now quite well known in England. Amatsu gave him the silver fruit dish with your family blazon engraved in it and the decanter with the cameo of your grandmother' portrait when she was a young Lady. It has to be feared that the bandit will melt them down and sell them for the value of the raw silver."

"Whaaaat That can't be, that is impossible. We have to do something. And we have to do something quick "

Nigel

07-17-2004, 14:59

-------------------------------------------------------------- Mission #13 --------------------------------------------------------------

It appears that the bandit Steeleye is in the posession of some silver items which belong to my heirloom and which are very dear to me. As I fear he may melt them and sell them for the value of the silver, I will pay 1500 Florins to anyone who can take them off his hands and return to me savely.

The captain of the army who signs up will recieve 50% of the sum in advance on the day he sets out to confront Steeleye, so he will have to give care, that his unit is not captured or routed during this mission.

It can be assumed that the bandit has hidden the silver somewhere and while it would be nice to see the bandit defeated, I will also be happy if only the silverware is retrieved and returned savely.

Attackers : Xiahou Liao
Defender : KyodaiSteeleye

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ------------------------------------------------------

Map details :
1v1, flatinland01.
Summer, Western European, 60 min.

The silver is hidden in the wagon next to the old mill. The opponents deploy within the indicatd circles, about same distance from the silver. The idea is that the mercenary has to get one unit to the wagon to get the silver out. Then he can decide to fight on or withdraw. If Steeleye defeats his general unit he steals 50% of the mission reward.

http://www.totalwar.org/patrons/story/Nigel_PBM_maps_mission 13.jpg

KyodaiSteeleye

07-17-2004, 18:51

lol Nigel.

Well, whichever mercenary decides to cross my path better get a move on, or Buiselm will have visited the silversmith...

https://forums.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/gc-surprised.gif

Xiahou Liao

07-17-2004, 21:39

Sign me up for #13. I must redeem my reputation with good deeds.

I will bring back the silver

octavian

07-18-2004, 02:18

HA Steeleye, with *one* of the best armies, VS XL with one of the worst (only because you haven't upgraded it yet)

oh, and Nigel, perhaps it would be helpful to indicate which players can host. maybe just putting the word HOST after their name by the army pics.

octavian

07-18-2004, 05:02

finished but not polished, which i dont think ill ever do https://forums.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif enjoy https://forums.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/bigthumb.gif

~The Fall of Lord Longshanks Castle~
As Written By Cornelieus Hood, Adjutant to Octavian the Hun.

We arrived, for the second time, at Lord Longshanks Castle. As the stone walls once again came within sight, our men’s spirits rose. Perhaps they could now wipe away the stain of dishonor that had been cast upon them by their leaders cowardly retreat from the castle only days earlier.

The excitement didn't last, the men could tell something was bothering Octavian, and rumours began to circulate. Soon it became apparent what the problem was. Amatsu, the turncoat that he was, was nowhere to be found.

"He must come, he must" Octavian paced back and forth through the knee high grass, looking not towards, but away from the castle. "His men will kill him if he doesn't fight this battle, surely he knows that." Just then far on the horizon, small puffs of dust began to appear. A murmur ran across the crowd of men. A young aide, shaded his eyes from the rising sun and looked north.

"I don't think it is Amatsu m’lord, too few, and from the wrong direction."

"Aye" Octavian, nodding sagely, "that will be Chimpyangs lieutenant, Nigel, returning with Chimpyangs cavalry, and more silver.
I had hoped to be in the castle before he arrived, but perhaps this is better"

At that very moment, shouts went up from the men, wheeling on his heel Octavian prepared to berate them into silence. Then he heard what they were cheering.

"AMATSU AMATSU" Rose the cries. Riding swiftly, Amatsu's vanguard galloped up to Octavian, halted, and then, on command, dismounted. Still mounted, the Officer in charge rode up.

"Amatsu was unable to come, he has taken ill these past few days. He has sent me in his stead however, with all of his army."

Octavian nodded, then, silently, signaled his officers to assemble the troops.

In just a few moments, the bandits were ready to march. Octavian ordered the two catapults placed on two hills on the Eastern side of the castle. Allowing him to break into both the upper and lower sections of the castle. Meanwhile, Amatsus lieutenant, Shaka prepared to give Nigel a warm reception. Placing one unit of Mounted Sergeants in the woods near the castle gate while setting the rest of his cav on our left flank, facing north.

As the first stones began to fly, he marched most of his cav towards Nigel, keeping his ambush near the gate hidden. At first, Octavian gave orders to his horse archers to support Shaka but just moments after giving the order, he recalled them. Instead, he sent one unit of mounted sergeants to the castle gate.

The ambush succeeded, and not a one of the servants carrying the silver escaped. On a hill overlooking the castle, Octavian smiled, calculating the loot.

"1200 florins I reckon, 57% of which is mine." his aide de camp, startled by the sudden comment, stammered for a moment.

"Y-y-yes sir, just what I was about to say myself."

Octavian snorted, "I'm sure Gustavus, I'm sure, it seems no matter what I say, I always steal the words right from your mouth."

Gustavus, stammered again, searching for the right words, then decided to agree. "Yes sir, my thoughts exactly" then, judging from Octavians stare that he had said the wrong thing, "I-I mean, not at all sir"

Octavian spat, then strode forward to gain a better view of the soldiers riding back with the loot. "They will get shot if they aren't careful." Almost in answer to his words, a rider slumped in the saddle. "Fools."

The majority of the riders made it safely back to the army. Unloading their loot well behind the lines they then rode up the hills to report to Octavian.

“684 florins worth I reckon sir” said the commander excitedly as he rode up. “684,” he let out a long slow whistle, then saluted, and rode off to join the rest of his cavalry wing.

Octavian, having paid little attention to the officer, went back to surveying the damage done to the walls, which was now quite significant. As another chunk of stone went flying, the crew manning one of the catapults began to take fire from the castle walls. A few of them dropped to the ground, writhing in agony, until some comrades came forward to take the few who were still alive back behind the lines.

Finally the walls began to show the first signs of collapse, and then an entire section fell to the ground, opening the lower ring of fortifications to assault. Some officers, eager for glory, ordered their troops forward, rushing towards the gap in the stone. Octavian and Shaka ordered them back hurriedly, cursing and shoving the men back to their positions.

“Not until both rings of the castle have been opened dare we attack, with just one, we are to easily cut down” Octavian shouted. “Now, back to the lines Form up”

Just moments later however, the second ring was exposed, and the infantry began moving, keeping in formation.

The infantry halted just out of bowshot, awaiting further orders. Meanwhile, up on the hill, Shaka and Octavian held a hurried conference.

“I think it would be best to send the spearmen in first, to wear the enemy out, then put the Men At Arms into the melee, and then make a final push with everything we have left.” Said Shaka slowly, weighing every word, thinking through every possibility.

Octavian thought for a moment, “Yes, I think that would be good, I will hold my cavalry in reserve near the lower ring, along with my militia. Hopefully I will be able to tie down part of their army, without having to fight, then, with the upper ring secured, we can push down into the lower level. Or, if Chimpyang decides to abandon the lower level, I can march in, break the gate, and hit his rear.”

“Right then, lets do it.” And with that, Shaka rode off to convey the orders to his troops.

The first unit of Italian light infantry began to march forward, slowly yet confidently, about 60 yards from the castle, the first arrows started to fall among them. The infantry sped up to the double time, then crashed into the line of Feudal Men at Arms who were waiting near the gap in the wall. The Light Infantry did well at first, the sheer shock power of their charge throwing the Men at Arms into slight disarray. Then the staying power of the FMAA began to show, and one after another, more and more Light Infantry began to drop, dead or severely wounded. More units were committed to the fight by both sides, but despite the most valiant efforts of the Italian spearmen, their losses were significant. Soon after the third unit of Light Infantry had entered the fray, the entire Italian line began to crack. However, just as the first waves of routers began to leave the melee, the Italian FMAA charged in. Fresh and eager to fight, they pushed deep into the French lines, forcing Chimpyang to commit his remaining cavalry. In addition to sending his cavalry into the fight, Chimpyang also pulled back the few troops that he had in the lower level.

Immediately Octavian sent his militia sergeants in, they swiftly pushed the cavalry that Chimpyang had left behind out, and began to batter the inner gate. Despite the boiling oil sent down upon their heads, they made fairly good progress.

Meanwhile, in the upper ring of fortifications, things had taken a turn for the worse, Chimpyang had committed his elite infantry, Swiss Pikemen. And despite the valiant attempts of Octavians Hungarian FMAA, the pikemen were slowly pushing them back. Octavian threw his last reserves, the cavalry, with the hopes that he would be able to buy time for his militia sergeants to force an entrance. Then Shaka ordered his now reformed Light Infantry back into the fray.

At that very moment, when it seemed that the day might be lost, that the Militia Sergeants broke through the gate. Octavian, realizing that his soldiers, with proper support, might be able to win the day, ordered his unit of bodyguards to form up, and personally led them down, through the lower court, and up towards the inner gate. It was there that a messenger from Shaka caught up with him.

“M’lord, General Shaka sends his regards, and his compliments on a well fought battle, but wishes to inform you that his line is about to break. And that believes it necessary to withdraw his troops from the battle, if they ever wish to fight again.”

Octavian wheeled his horse violently, “Tell him to form his men up for a final push, the enemy is about to break, I can feel it, now quick Tell him Before it is too late” with that he wheeled back to face the gate, and galloped through, followed by his entourage. As he rode through the gate, he found his militia sergeants fighting hard against a unit of French FMAA, without hesitation he charged into the conflict. Within minutes the entire unit of FMAA lay slain on the field. Not pausing for even a heartbeat, Octavian ordered the militia sergeants into the enemy’s rear. Soon after, the entire contingent of French soldiers lay dead or huddled in small groups, guarded by Hungarian and Italian soldiers.

Axeknight

07-18-2004, 19:02

Mission 10 is set for tonight https://forums.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/bigthumb.gif I'll do a write up tomorrow (hopefully)

octavian

07-18-2004, 19:05

oh Nigel, since no one wants to fight me in Mission 11, i guess ill take mission 12 as well. https://forums.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/bigthumb.gif

Chimpyang

07-18-2004, 19:38

I offer to help Xiao Hou in his battle, I'll send my entire cavalry corps, 2 units of Hobilars and 2 unit's of Turcopoles to the battle for 200fl when sucessful, 20fl if not. I'll do anything to redeem myself after my loss of hounour at Longshank's castle.

I would also like to upgrade 3 of my FMAA to v1....i'm not sure of how the costs are spread but i think i'll make it thorugh this month safely.

Xiahou Liao

07-18-2004, 19:41

It's uhm, not always about the best army that wins

Battle of Cannae anyone?

>>;

KyodaiSteeleye

07-18-2004, 19:49

Good, i'm taking it you don't want Chimyang's cavalry then

https://forums.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/wacko.gif

Axeknight

07-18-2004, 21:13

Well, Steeleye and I just fought mission 10. He beat me https://forums.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/frown.gif

"Damn it all God damn it all" Duke Fitzjohn shouted. It had been going so well. He had ordered the servants carrying the shipment to move erratically, in the hope of confusing the bandit. He personally lead a cavalry charge to distract them, but the bandit's horsemen had cut his poorly armoured men to pieces, and a group of bandit horsemen he had missed set upon the shipment. Seeing the shipment lost, he ordered the rout.
"Sir?" the spearman asked hesitantly,
"What is it?" Fitzjohn snapped back.
"The count, sir. Of dead and wounded, sir."
"Leave it with me." Ross gave him the paper quickly, as though he wanted to be rid of it. Fitzjohn soon saw why.
"Six hundred and sixty seven dead or wounded? My God..."

Battle replay will be up soon, if anyone wants to see my magic 'which corner are the peasants in?' trick https://forums.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif . I'll send Nigel the logfile now.

Chimpyang

07-18-2004, 21:48

Think about it........all those turcopoles and hobilars.....

Chimpyang

07-18-2004, 21:49

You know i could make a living out of hiring my units to the bandits and mercs.

octavian

07-19-2004, 21:51

lol, ang, quite a lucrative career.

and Nigel, i check the previous page for my army upgrades. https://forums.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/bigthumb.gif

Nigel

07-19-2004, 22:26

yup, Octavian, I'm on it. Just soo much catching up to do with you guys. https://forums.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif

Signing up for mission #12 as well, right. You sure are determined to become the most infameous bandit of the land, Octavian. Just one day the other bandits might decide to gang up on you. "Oi, what your men doin' here. This is our dark forest. Git yer hands off our merchants, or we'll teach yer right."

Xiahou Liao, it looks like you will have to go up agains Octavian after all. Can't hide, but perhaps can run. I do recommend Shaka's advice on dealing with horse arcers. Shoot them out of the saddle, just don't attempt to chase after them. And for that one you may want to think about Chimpyang's "swords for hire" https://forums.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/gc-smile.gif

KyodaiSteeleye

07-19-2004, 22:26

Mission 10 Battle Report (a bit convoluted ;))

Guillaume's band had been formed up for two hours on a chilly morning on the edge of the hills. Tension hung over the rebels like a dark cloud. Slowly, slight movements in the distance heralded the approach of the guildsmen with the merchant's cargo. Guillaume had formed up his clansmen and cavalry into a seperate battle on the right, in case the guildsmen had tried to bypass their position. He strained to try and see if he could spot the merchant's men. They didn't appear to be with the main company. Apprehension rose in the bandit-leader's stomach - where was the shipment? Was this just a clever decoy?

No - there, he spotted the merchant's men using the cover of a wood with some clansmen escorts. 'tell Buiselm and the cavalry to get over to that hill on the left quickly', he ordered his command-rider. The man spurred his horse toward the second battle, and soon the bandit horsemen were galloping over the valley and up the far slope to cut off any possibility of the merchantmen making a run for home. The bandit clansmen formed up behind the archers in the main body of infantry.

The guildsmen companies marched toward them, but the merchant's men kept coming and going out of view, and companies of mercenaries kept darting left and right. Guillaume licked his lips with anxiety. 'Rider - keep track of those merchantmen - tell me if you see them running for the woods or i'll have your eyes - that mercenary captain B*st*rd is confusing the hell out of me'. His chosen lookout dutifully stood up in his saddle, trying to keep his eyes trained on the interweaving companies of mercenarymen ahead.

The mercenary companies' weaving was leading to confusion amongst the bandit company leaders - Buiselm rode his troops across the valley again, unsure where the guildsmen would strike. 'Captain, look', Guillaume's command rider pointed - the mercenary captain and all of his horsemen were streaming left up the far slope of the valley, the merchantmen just behind. 'Quickly - tell Buiselm to get up the hill and stop the merchant's men breaking through - at all costs'

Buiselm and his cavalry raced across the valley to cut the mercenary captain off, but before they could reach the top of the opposite slope, the mercenary cavalry charged and it was all they could do to wheel in time to meet them face on. Meanwhile the guildsmen archers were now in range and were exchanging arrows with the bandit companies. Axeknight's foot companies charged down the slope - the bandit clansmen quickly formed into their favoured wedges and countered, throwing themselves onto the guildsmen's spears. The initial impact was dreadful - whole ranks of men on both sides were hacked down, but the mercenary line held and axeknight quickly flanked the clansmen, felling them quickly, as in their tight formations the scots could not parry the incoming blows. Too slowly, the bandit men-at-arms charged forward, only to see the clansmen shock troops fleeing toward them, mercenaries in tow. Guillaume's well armoured foot troops stopped the pursuit, however. Meanwhile, Guillaume charged his personal retinue and the remaining cavalry over the valley to support Buiselm, who was now in a desperate melee with the guildsmen hobilars. Gaining the top of the opposite slope, his remaining cavalry charged down at the exposed hobilar flank, turning the tide of the fight. Just as he was about to do the same, a glint of metal in the neighbouring wood drew his attention to the merchant's men, nearly invisible, and crouching in the undergrowth, waiting for an opportunity to slip past unawares. 'the bones of saint ignatious - an extra florin for every man that captures a sack of those seeds', cried Guillaume as he spurred his horse into a charge against the peasants.

The merchant's men didn't fight for long and ran in panic soon after. Meanwhile, Buiselm's cavalry finally got the better of the mercenary captain, who turned tail and fled - causing his infantry to do the same. Even the rebel clansmen rallied and turned on their pursuers, who were so surprised that they too fled the field.

Later that night, after some experimentation on some unfortunate archers to find the magic of his newly acquired black seeds, (who still scowled and complained that their guts were burning away), Guillaume declared he had found the answer 'that's it - these are the seeds of plants taken from the land of dragons - two of these will give a man the strength and courage of five Buiselm - sell these on to those superstitious fools in the town, next market day, we'll make a killing a second time Oh - and while you're at it send a message to that mercenary Axeknight that he seems to have carelessly left two of his companies behind', motioning to the small groups of huddled figures tied to trees around the camp.

'oh, and Buiselm, don't take that silver stuff quite yet, there's a rather fine engraving of a young lady that i like to study at night...'

Nigel

07-19-2004, 23:02

Buiselm was relived at this remark of his leader as this would save him the long way to town (he was also sightly worried about him for different reasons). He had already been a part of the way, when the notice had come that Axeknight and the shipment of teh devils seeds were approaching. Quickly he had hidden the silver among a few sacks of flour by the old mill and joined his master to fight the battle.

And a good battle is was, too. Both his master's as well as his own unit had distinguished themselves with valour. So had two other units of the band. The men were now highly motivated and keen for another battle.

Axeknight

07-19-2004, 23:07

Quote[/b] (KyodaiSteeleye @ July 19 2004,22:26)]'oh, and Buiselm, don't take that silver stuff quite yet, there's a rather fine engraving of a young lady that i like to study at night...'
https://forums.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/jawdrop.gif
Someone get that silver off him now https://forums.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif

Good write up, Steeleye. Great battle as well, I really enjoyed it. I shall dig up the replay now, watch the peasants, I moved them all over the place to try and get the drop on him, but with no luck https://forums.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/rolleyes.gif .

Axeknight

07-19-2004, 23:13

Aw damn, WinZip won't zip my replay. Could you upload yours, Steeleye?

Nigel

07-19-2004, 23:16

There have been various comments saying that it would be a good idea if your men could gain valor from battles. And several ways of doing it have also been discussed. Considering the things suggested (and failing to get the log-file reader to give useful figures for valor-gain) I will now use the following system :

Gaining valor from battles

1) The End-Screen will show you if any unit gained valor.

2) Take a screenshot.
Best way to do this is by using the Print Screen button.
Then open Paint (or any other graphics program) and insert.

3) Save it as JPG (please) and email to Gamemaster.

4) Since valor involves an increase in Support cost, you dont have to give it to all units who would qualify for it.

5) There is a max. valor gain of 1 for each unit per battle.
I.e. if a unit gained 2 valor, it will still only be given 1 additional permanent valor point.

Hope that should work.
https://forums.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/gc-clown.gif

P.S.
Lets see how it does work. If we find we are getting valor inflation, we may have to go for a max 1 valor per battle in total (i.e. players have to decide which one of the qualifying units gets the valor increase).

Nigel

07-20-2004, 21:34

Finally Octavian's "recruiting officer" returns from his mission through the taverns. He brings back two new units and also splashes out some cash to the FMAA, who in turn promised to fight harder than ever before. In total he spent 796 Florins from Octavian's budget, leaving 749 in his chest. The payroll has gone up to 802 Florins....

And Chimpyang, too, hands out some money to increase the dedication of some of his FMAA: 366 Florins. Enough left to let pay-day approach with peace of mind.

Chimpyang

07-20-2004, 22:30

Actually, I would like to make ALL my unit's available for hire, prices will be listed later (can i do this?). Losses of these unit's will be replaced by me. Note there is a "calling out" fee (usually around 20-50fl) and a mission completion fee (if mission is won). I will decide if i can spare the unit(s) to hire out and will also command these units in battle.

Note : My men will not fight each other, so if one side has hired some of my men, the other side cannot. Also in extreme conditions I may lend my unit's to someone else and give them full command for a battle. This will inccur a high callout fee but the cost of replacing the unit (if lost) will be shared 75%:25% with me taking 75%.

KyodaiSteeleye

07-20-2004, 23:34

A sealed parchment has been left at the demesne of a mercenary guild captain. On opening, it reads:

Axeknight

Sir,

You carelessly seem to have mislaid two of your companies in the aftermath of our recent meeting.

Much as it offends me to think that i may have to meet them on the field again, I am, however, open to that possibility, should you deem to compensate me for their return.

Therefore i will free your hobilars on payment of 100 gold florins, and your longbowmen on payment of 300 gold florins.

I hope that you will not force me to end their sorry existences.

Guillaume the Colt

octavian

07-21-2004, 03:00

Chimpyang, i hate to break this to you, but im not sure how well your "renting" of units is gonna work. for this simple reason... your units, at least some of them, are faction specific... the only way to get around this is to find a second person to command a portion of the army. this A) causes an unfair advantedge, two minds against one you might say. B) makes battles harder to coordinate. hate to rain on your parade https://forums.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/gc-confused.gif

octavian

07-21-2004, 03:09

@Nigel, what is going on with mission 11??? with no merc standing up to the challenge, do i just get the cash... or what, i really want it wrapped up by next payday.

Xiahou Liao

07-21-2004, 04:06

Hell yes I'll take on Chimpyang's offer. :D

Axeknight

07-21-2004, 09:21

Steeleye, I shall pay you the full asking price of 100fl for my horsemen, but I shall not go a florin over 225 for the longbows. Take or leave this offer, I am not open for bargaining with bandit scum.

https://forums.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/tongue.gif

Chimpyang

07-21-2004, 11:34

In reply to Octavian's comments i will make the following clear..........if you require me to bring my units onto the field myself, i will gladly do so. However, if you wish to command the units themselves, make sure that the units that you hire are available to your faction. Also, if your current army setup is multifaction (highlanders are also available to france) and you wish to borrow my SP or Turcopoles AND take them yourself, then it wouldn't really matter what faction you are.

I will try to find a lietenat on the other side of the atlantic who isnt involved in this gmae already to take my units for me for time zone conveniences. Also, the two minds against one, maybe renting units means that the renter has to pay the food for the units and therefore gets less florins for the mission?

OR
we can have it that I have to take commands from the renter, these commands must be made over the say to all system...I will not use any initiative other than when to chrage and when to withdraw/rout. This makes it fairer cos the other player can hear what is happening?

Chimpyang

07-21-2004, 11:35

Ah, then the deal is done Xiaohou? I'll have the 20fl now to cover cost of getting these units to the battlefield. Once there you can tell me what to do.

KyodaiSteeleye

07-21-2004, 13:28

well, see what Nigel thinks, but i don't think there's any problem in renting out units or having 2 v 1 - i'm sure all battles won't be fair anyway - we will increasingly have the prospect of armies that are much better kitted out on one side than the other anyway.

KyodaiSteeleye

07-21-2004, 13:38

Axeknight

Bandit scum i may be, but my dear guildsman, you seem to incomprehend that I hold all the cards here - i have no qualms in disposing of your longbowmen down the nearest ravine if that is what you choose.

If the florins are the problem, then maybe you should endeavour to secure a loan from one of your fellow guildsmen?

Guillaume the Colt

Axeknight

07-21-2004, 14:02

Guillaume,
I must feed and pay my men as well as you do. If ye had any honour, ye would show mercy and quarter to a good opponent. I fear ye do not. I am loathe to take a loan and be indebted to any fellow guildsman, I am sure you, as a bandit will understand why. I shall give you 290 florins for my longbowmen. 'Tis all I can afford. I ask thee to show chivalry towards mine horsemen. Keep them your captives 'til I have the means to ransom with you, and I shall give thee 115 florins next month, which be 305 florins in total, 5 more than you ask for.
Consider this generous offer, bandit. It will be my last.
Duke Fitzjohn

Nigel

07-21-2004, 18:51

Chimpyang and Octavian

I like the idea of hiring out units to other players. It sounds fun and seems a good way of keeping the battles interesting even as the armies of players are of increasingly different strength. As for two minds against one, I dont think that is really unfair gainst the one player (no offence, Chimpyang https://forums.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/tongue.gif ). It is 4 eyes on the battlefield all right, but it also means there is the need for communication : time spent typing on the Y-chat and the potential for misunderstandings and bad timing. So while your units should follow the command of their employer, I see no need for demanding to communicate over the T-chat.

There are a few other points, though:

Those units which are hired out are not available to you for your own missions. After their battle they will return to your army, but this will take some time. So if you have your own mission ongoing, they will not be likely to be back for that battle, unless perhaps that mission gets massively delayed without your fault.

There may be occasions when you can only hire out certain units. For example, if someone wants your units on short notice, it can only be cavallery units who can reach the destination in time. Depending on the situation, I may also say that your units join as reinforcements - i.e. you deploy at the back end of your side and have to wait for, say 10 minutes, before you can move into action.

Finally, the overall idea is that players hire out your units to support their army, not to turn a 1v1 into a 2v1. If someone hires your whole army at once, or what I feel to be too many units, I will step in and just say "this and that unit was held up and will not make it in time for the fight".

But all in all I like the idea and I think it should work and make the game more fun.

Liao, you just need to let us know which units you want. And Chimpyang, is it 20 Fl call out fee for each unit ?

Nigel

07-21-2004, 18:58

Now what about mission #11 ?

It seems the threats of the fameous bandit Octavian have scared the mercenaries from signing up. So I went to the city guards and asked if they would be prepared to lend some men in support. At first they were not too keen, as they still remembered the beating they got from XL. But when I told them it was to ensure their city's beer supply, they promised to volunteer readily. It remains to be seen how many they will eventually send.

So now any Merc who takes up mission #11 can count on the support of the city guard.
And if still no one can be found, I will just set out with the shipment guarded by the militia alone.

(N.B. Octavian, yes I have in the past given out mission rewards for free, if no opponent signed up. But since you are by now clearly the strongest player in the game, I am hanging the bar a bit higher for you. Nonetheless, if noone signs up by the end of this week, you can have an easy battle against the militia before the month is up).

KyodaiSteeleye

07-21-2004, 19:00

Axeknight

Sir,

I am glad that you have seen reason. Despite my chosen profession, let it not be said that i am without compassion. Your longbowmen will go free on receipt of the 290 florins, your hobilars will stay as my captives until I receive the final payment of 115 florins.

Until we meet again,

Guillaume the Colt.

Axeknight

07-21-2004, 19:32

The alehouse stank. But it was the best place for the meeting, Fitzjohn knew. A dozen of his men were here with him, sitting at tables and carrying concealed weapons in case the bandit tried something stupid.
"Fitzjohn?" the voice behind him inquired
"Duke Fitzjohn to a commoner." he replied acidly. The Colt sat down opposite him.
"Yes, yes. Duke Fitzjohn." he smirked, "But we have matters to discuss."
"Where are my men?"
"Where is the gold?"
"A safe place. I wish to see my men are safe first, bandit."
"Of course."

They were all alive. Just. Fitzjohn counted sixty men, then said,
"Your money is at the guild building. Tell the guildsmaster you have a message from Duke Fitzjohn. When he asks, say 'Wake the children; the fire is spreading'. He will hand the gold over."
"And if he doesn't?"
"You still have my cavalrymen, do you not?"
"Hmm. 'Til we meet again, Duke."
"I look forward to it, bandit."

Nigel

07-21-2004, 20:50

Ok, Axeknight, the money is handed over, your archers are on the way home. You are left with 521 Florins.

Just one little thing. https://forums.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/gc-blush.gif
Before this deal, your Support Costs showed 519 Florins. That was because, errrmm..., I had already struck the Longowmen and Hobilars from your payroll ... https://forums.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/gc-blush.gif

A bit permaturely, I'm afraid. Sorry about that (must be a bit of a shock for the men to return from captivity and see their names already crossed out). Well, I guess you can blame it on me and let them have a drink at my expenses. Then they may let you give them their pay a few weeks later.

Nigel

07-21-2004, 21:10

Meanwhile, lets see what is happening to our friend Longshanks.

-------------------------------------------------------------- Mission #14 --------------------------------------------------------------

The raid of his castle has been a nasty shock for Lord Longshanks. But his troubles are not over yet.
After the attack he had sent a messenger with a hastily written note to his army, commanding them back to his aid and protection. This brought a dilemma to his subordinate generals, who were en route to London to deliver their prisoner. What should they do now? Complete their mission, or go straight back North? Well, the decision was made for them, as Duncan McGregor used the confusion and escaped his captors together with 60 of his comrade Highland Clansmen v4. Now he is heading back North towards his home, with Longshanks` men hard on his heels.

Lord Longshanks, after recovering from a fit of rage, is now offering a reward of 1000 Florins to any mercenary, who can intercept McGregor and capture him - dead or alive. Should the bandit himself escape, he will still pay 10 Florins for the head of each of his men.

The McGregor family, however, is pleading to the local bandit gangs for help and will offer 600 Florins from their savings for any bandit willing to escort their leader back home. Duncan McGregor himself will add another 600 Florins to that from his hidden treasure – provided he makes it back alive.

Signed up as Mercenary : Sociopsychoactive
Signed up as Bandit : Shaka

Socio recieves 2 units of chiv knights v2 from Lord Longshanks in support for this mission.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ------------------------------------------------------

Map details :
1v1, hillyinland05.
Summer, Western European, 60 min, Mercenaries = defenders.

Xiahou Liao

07-21-2004, 21:33

Turcopoles

Sulla

07-22-2004, 11:24

still going strong I see, have more fun guys :D

Sulla

Chimpyang

07-22-2004, 12:39

In reply to Nigel........those rules seem fair enough to me.......Xiaohou, the costs wil be 20fl each to call them out and when the battle is won, the total cost will be an extra 120 fl which gives the round total of 200fl.

I plan not to hire my WHOLE army out, who knows, Bandits (cough Octavian cough) may plan a surprise attack on my headquarters whilst my men are gone and steal all of my treasury. https://forums.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/wink.gif

Chimpyang

07-22-2004, 12:40

You really don't like my HA do you?

KyodaiSteeleye

07-22-2004, 13:32

Hi Nigel,

I took the liberty of advertising on the other forums for bandits https://forums.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/gc-gossip.gif

We've got a guy called ConstableBrew interested - but is only junior patron so can't post here yet - maybe you could contact him in the entrance hall?

Steeleye.

Sociopsychoactive

07-22-2004, 14:15

I and my (soon to be hired) band of rabid english mercenaries will happily take on the task of delivering this foul scots head to lord longshanks

Been reading all through this thread all day and it looks great fun, I have messenger and always signed in if online (email address is in my profile) and am on GMT, and usually available in the daytime between about 12 and 5, or in the evening between about 7 and 10 on weekdays, not so much at weekends.

Will get back to you with my army, 3500 florins should buy me some decent mercs...

If, as I suspect there arnt actually any positions for mercs open I would be willing to try my hand at baditry, but would prefer the solid pay of mercenary work.

Sociopsychoactive

07-22-2004, 15:03

well my army, assuming I'm in that is, is as follows.

1 V1 hobilar,
3 V0 hobilars
4 V0 longbows
4 V0 Fuedal MAA
2 V0 spearmen

Money left over, 512 florins.

My gamespy ID is unhder the name Nighty13.

Chimpyang

07-22-2004, 16:45

I will make some space then. I'll change alliegance to Bandit as it's seems more profitable, also, it goes well with my "swords for hire" scheme.

I've already drafted a letter to the guild.

To whome it may concern,

I refuse to pay the annual membership fee How can you expect me to hand over 1/3 of all my income every time so that it can be kept safe for "the good of the guild". I am sure that this clause wasn't in the initial contract that WE signed. En plus, in it you promised me the free house extension which i have not yet recieved, even after various messengers to remind you at great cost to me (all of 5 fl) you still have not sent anyone over to do the work. I will exact my revenge for this pack of lies fed to me and my band of loyal men, who were promised free beer in participating alehouses, however some were arresdted when they tried to get some drinks at the local Red Lion.

Adieu and watch your backs, you never know what may happen to your men one dark and stormy night mwhahahahahahahah

Chimpyang (formerly Mercenary Captain of the Guild of Respectabel mercenaries)

How will that do as a resignation letter?

octavian

07-22-2004, 19:26

glad to have you on board Ang https://forums.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/bigthumb.gif

Chimpyang

07-22-2004, 20:46

Good to be aboard, i lok fwd to fighting alongside you instead of against you. https://forums.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/wink.gif

P.S. Any unit's that catch your fancy from my group.....enquire about prices today

Nigel

07-22-2004, 21:06

Nigel and his friend Richard de Beauchamp, the Master of the Mercenaries Guild, were sitting over glasses of fine brandy in the back room of one of the more distinguised taverns and discussing the latest developments. Nigel was shaking his head over a letter, Richard had shown him. "1/3 of all income ? Really, Richard, how could you?". "Well", Richard replied, "those were chaotic times. Everyone was desperately looking for employment and willing to sign almost every contract. And the Guild needed money, then". "And this free house extension? Come on, I mean, that was a promise you knew you could not keep". The Guildmaster was looking more and more embarrassed. Nigel sighed. "What's done is done. But it is things like these, which are driving good men away from the side of the law".

Things were not looking all too good for the Guild indeed. The armies of the bandits had grown stronger and stronger, while many of the guildsmen were struggling to pay their troops at the end of each month. And now another veteran was changeing sides. "If it goes on like this, you will have to set aside a fund to support the members of your guild with finances". Richard de Beauchamp frowned. He had hoped that the Guild would quickly grow strong and powerful (and profitable as well) but it seemed that Nigel was right. There might well come a time when measures like these might be called for.

Axeknight

07-22-2004, 21:13

Yes, very very soon https://forums.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif https://forums.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif

Nigel, any chance of a small loan (50fl should clear it), to pay my longbows? I hadn't bargained on the support cost markup, sorry https://forums.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/frown.gif

Xiahou Liao

07-22-2004, 21:31

I need money...soon...so whenever whoever I have to go against, wants to go. I'm ready. Except for later tonight, I'm goin' car shoppin' :D

octavian

07-22-2004, 21:37

OK, XL, what Time Zone are you in? https://forums.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/ceasaryes.gif

Xiahou Liao

07-22-2004, 21:52

EST GMT(-5:00)

octavian

07-22-2004, 22:05

Quote[/b] (Xiahou Liao @ July 22 2004,16:52)]EST GMT(-5:00)
perfect, im gone friday and saturday, but sometime Sunday should work for me https://forums.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/bigthumb.gif

KyodaiSteeleye

07-22-2004, 23:04

Xia,

I'm away Friday and Saturday, but will be back Sunday - I'm GMT, so can you make 8.00pm my time, 3.00pm your time?

Sociopsychoactive

07-23-2004, 01:24

Chimpyang, why not make your first act as a bandit the protection of the scottish traitor? This could be good...

Xiahou Liao

07-23-2004, 04:12

- Thinks to himself... -

Why can't people spell my name? ;x

Oh, guys, you know...

Xiahou Liao is really Liao Xiahou right?

Jus' call me Liao. :p

Chimpyang

07-23-2004, 09:17

I'll make 8pm easily, just tell me what day it is.

Sociopsychoactive

07-23-2004, 09:56

I can do 8pm GMT tonight, othetr than that it would have to at least wait till monday. Are you signing up for mission 14 then chimpyang?

Chimpyang

07-23-2004, 10:04

unfortunately for you i'm not....I need to be there to command my cavalry at Mission 11 (methinks) as Liao has hired my men to take part in the raid (which Kaiodai knows NOTHING about).

Kenchi_Shaka

07-23-2004, 11:48

if chimpyang doesnt take the mission #14, then i would like to... https://forums.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/handball.gif

shaka

octavian

07-24-2004, 02:25

ok Liao would 1530 hours on Sunday work for you? Ang, i dont know if you are part of Liao and my battle or not, but if so, would 2030 hours your time work for you as well. if that works for one... or both of you. that means that this battle would happen right after the XL, Ang and Kyo battle.

Xiahou Liao

07-24-2004, 04:39

1530hrs sound good for me. so does 2030hrs. I don't know which I could take. It all depends if I work, or if I'm going to another city to pick up the car I'm going to buy or not, you know? But I might go tomorrow to get the car and work tomorrow, so I may have the day off.

octavian

07-24-2004, 22:14

Liao, 2030 hours was for Ang, Ang is in GMT. i really dont think he would be willing to stay up till 1:00 in the morning just to help fight our battle. perhaps i didn't make that clear in my post https://forums.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/confused.gif

Chimpyang

07-24-2004, 23:33

Sure 8:30 pm sounds good......hey....why ahve you got your sigas Clan FEX? Have you suddenly departed LORE?

octavian

07-25-2004, 19:15

yea. see my post in the {LORE} thread. https://forums.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/bigthumb.gif

i hope to see you and XL there then https://forums.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif

Chimpyang

07-25-2004, 20:22

Unfortunately due to unforseen circumstances i cant really get online till 9:30, my dad's expecting a very important call soon and wont let me on...i've snuck online to type this out. if it isnt possible i give permission for Liao to take my troops in battle.

octavian

07-25-2004, 20:47

OK, gamespy isn't letting me on either... so that will be better as it is. https://forums.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/bigthumb.gif hope to c u there m8 https://forums.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif

Chimpyang

07-25-2004, 21:27

It aint letting me on either...looks like we need to rearragne it ???

octavian

07-25-2004, 21:38

https://forums.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/frown.gif that may be... im gonna see if it clears up with time... what is the latest you can come on Ang? https://forums.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/confused.gif

Nigel

07-25-2004, 23:22

They rode into the mercenaries’ camp in full gallop - two units of feudal knights in full armour, their v1 banners flying in the wind. Before Socio’s tent they halted abruptly. Their captain dismounted and stepped inside. “Sir John Fitzneale, captain of Lord Longshanks’ vanguard, sent in advance of his army with urgent message to the commander of the mercenary band under contract to capture the bandit McGregor. You are the man in charge, I presume” he addressed Socio. “We have information that the fugitive has reached the area nearby and is currently in the company of one of the local bandits, known by the name of Shaka. Be warned, Sir, that this man Shaka is a skilled general, who has gained much reputation in the times of the great war. His group of fighters is said to be well equipped, too. A direct confrontation is therefore hardly deemed advisable and careful tactic and skilful manoeuvring will be required to apprehend or otherwise render harmless the fugitive villain. However, Lord Longshanks expresses his confidence and trust in your courage and will be expecting the report of the battle with eager anticipation. As for myself and the 80 knights waiting outside, it would be our honour to ride under your command for this mission. “ Sir Fitzneale stood, resting his hands on the hilt of his sword and patiently awaited Socio’s answer.

Edit:
......hmmm, after some testing I figured this needs some readjusting and changed it to Feudal Knights v1. Still not claiming this is a perfectly balanced battle, but should be better now than before... https://forums.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/gc-inquisitive.gif

Sociopsychoactive

07-26-2004, 00:11

Sociopsychoactive looked up from a scroll hje was inspecting, then nodded curtly at the captasin before walking out the tent to inspect the knights who had ridden with him. 'Well you seem a fine body of men, and I would be proud to have you serving under me to aid in the capture, or the death of this traitorus rebel. I will do my utmost to please Lord Longshanks after his recent troubles. We shall set out at first light to intercept them and do away with any that would seek to protect him. Hear this men We march at dawn to kill the traitor, every man here will share in the bounty'

He returned to his tent to pack up his things and smiled that Lord Longshaks would trust him with some of his finest troops. This would be a deciding battle indeed. If all went well his career as a mercenary would be off to a well founded start, if not he would struggle to even pay his men...

Nigel

07-26-2004, 22:36

Quote[/b] (Axeknight @ July 22 2004,15:13)]Nigel, any chance of a small loan (50fl should clear it), to pay my longbows? I hadn't bargained on the support cost markup, sorry.
Well, Axe, I guess 50 Fl will be ok. Especially since I am thnking of allowing loans a bit more generously this month, what with the trouble on GS and players not beeing able to do their battles without fault of their own.

And Octavian, it appears that there is really no one interested in mission #11. Well, I may be able to hire the city guards for this one again - say Friday 21:00 GMT ? Would that work for you ?

Oh, and Socio, I've been rebalancing the support for you in you mission a bit.
I think it was needed. https://forums.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/gc-inquisitive.gif

KyodaiSteeleye

07-27-2004, 19:01

Xiao - in case you didn't get my email - i can be on on weds or fri evenings my time - so from 3pm onwards your time - not sure about sat and sun yet.

Steeleye.

KyodaiSteeleye

08-03-2004, 18:18

whoohoo! we're back.

Xiahou - give me some times that you can make for this battle, dude - my man is sure to have retreived the stuff from the mill if you don't hurry up.

~:)

Nigel

08-03-2004, 22:17

Yes, it seems we are back.

The beatiful medieval look is still missing, and so is my favourite avatar, but I am sure that will come with time. Most imporant is that we call all log back in. This may require a reset of password. But it can be changed back to the original one. Well at least it worked for me. Lets hope that all players will be able to make it to this place.

:knight:

Axeknight

08-05-2004, 21:56

Righty. So the game's back in session :knight:

Has payday happened yet?

Nigel

08-05-2004, 22:48

Yes, payday has happened. I have just updated page 1.
It still needs to be tidied up a bit as formatting on this forums seems to be different from the old one. The links to the missions are currently not working eigther. Well, we will get there eventually.

KyodaiSteeleye

08-09-2004, 13:04

bit quiet in here...

:scastle:

Chimpyang

08-09-2004, 14:55

i'm waiting for a new mission to pop up.

Sociopsychoactive

08-11-2004, 15:41

"Sire..."
Sociopsychoactives aid cowered visably before his master.
"Sire I have some good news."
"Well, spit it out man!" Socio snapped back at him.
"Our messenger has finally returned, though we have lost almost all our messengers in the past week, this one has finally brought word that replacements have been found and communication with Lord Longshanks is finally working again!"
"About damn time aswell!" The mercenary leader snarled before storming out of his tent to find the messenger.
The small, skinny man was badly wounded, three arrows protruded from his body, but he was alive and Socio's surgeons were about to begin work.
"Sire..." The man began. "We suspect it was McGregors men, picking off every messenger sent out and even those coming in. I barely made it myself, but Lord Longshanks has promiced a dozen new messengers, and the remaining knights from the battle with McGregor are requested to escort them, we shouldn't have much trouble getting messages back and forth now, but unfotunately there is little news to report. No new raids have been heard of, or attacks on bandits schedualed."

At this Socio snarled and left the man to the healers. FOr a full week they had been cut off from the rest of the world. While having his base of operations in the middle of marshlands had seemed a great idea at the time, and the defensive value was not to be scoffed at, it made messengers vulnerable to ambush, as they had found out. At least now they would hopefully recive word of a new assignment before long, the men were becoming restless.

((My computer died last week, hence the story, but I seem to have it back up and running, ish. If I can't be found for a few days you know it's died again and McGregors men are once again praying on our messengers. It should be fine though.))

Nigel

08-11-2004, 20:41

Sir Nigel just barely manages to stick his head out of huge piles of paper on his desk (and that is my Real Life desk as well. Work has been crazy over the last 2 weeks, sorry everyone) In his hand he has a couple of letters from his business partners, asking when his next shipments are moving off. "send a quick pidgeon to these gentlemen", he says to his secretary, " tell them how busy I have been with these annoying burocrats, but that I intend to assign new shipments this very evening. My, I really need a holiday".

I really do ~D
And will be going for the next 2 weeks too, leaving this Saturday. I may haev occasional internet access during that time but I promise I will knock up a few more missions before I go. Hopefully that will keep you guys going and help everyone over the next payday. This seems to be a crazy month.

Axeknight

08-11-2004, 21:46

I'm going away as well, not coming back til September. Which means i can't play a game this month. Damn. ~:(

Axeknight

08-11-2004, 21:51

BTW, wasn't the game supposed to end on the release of RTW? Cause that's the 17th of next month. I don't know whether to be delighted about RTW, or sad for the loss of B+M (though it doesn't look like I'd survive much longer). I can't see many people wanting to keep playing MTW when we have RTW. Maybe we could start something like this again? B+M has been great fun.

Nigel

08-11-2004, 22:35

wasn't the game supposed to end on the release of RTW? Cause that's the 17th of next month.

Really, that soon ~:eek: Time flies.....
Still, although I am still full of ideas for this I think I should stick to the timeline and call out winners and wrap up when RTW comes out. I am also looking forward to some good after-game-discussions and perhaps some cool ideas of what could be done with RTW ~:)

But meanwhile, there is still some time to go and (when everyone is back from holidays) a few good battles still to fight. So for now, I present some more missions (and other stuff).

Nigel

08-11-2004, 22:37

-------------------------------------------------------------- Mission #15 --------------------------------------------

Well, first on my list of waiting shipments are 100 boxes of honey. The Duchess of York is waiting for them for the wedding celebration of her son. The honey is worth 1500 Florins. The Duchess, however will pay well for timely delivery and a mercenary guarding the shipment will recieve 1000 Florins plus an additional 600 upon save delivery.

Signed up as Mercenary : no opponent found, mission closed
Signed up as Bandit : Chimpyang

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- -----------------------------------

Map details :
1v1, hillyinland02.
Summer, Southern European, 60 min, Mercenaries = Attackers

Nigel

08-11-2004, 22:41

-------------------------------------------------------------- Mission #16 -----------------------------------------------------

The next mission is a shipment of dried fish, 200 boxes to go from the hanseatic city of Hamburg to Berlin.
The boxes are worth 8 Florins each. I am paying a sign up fee of 800 Florins and 400 Florins on delivery.
As I am worried that the fish, although salted and dried, might go bad, I will add another 400 Florins if the mission is completed before 25th August.

Signed up as Mercenary : Hamburg militia
Signed up as Bandit : Octavian

Mission completed
Octavian wins against militia and sailor men

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ------------------------------------------------

Map details :
1v1, hillyinland06.
Summer, Southern European, 60 min, Mercenaries = Defenders

Nigel

08-11-2004, 22:44

-------------------------------------------------------------- Mission #17 -----------------------------------------------

And then there is a load of 100 boxes of white lace, to go from Brussels to Paris.
The hand fashioned lace is worth 16 Florins per box and I will pay a sign up fee of 900 Florins and a delivery bonus of 500 Florins.

Signed up as Mercenary : Guy
Signed up as Bandit : no opponent found, mission closed

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- -----------------------------------

Map details :
1v1, hillyinland11.
Summer, Southern European, 60 min, Mercenaries = Defenders

Nigel

08-11-2004, 22:47

Finally I have an announcement from the Guildmaster of the Mercenaries Guild.
I will pin it up here for everyone to see.

-------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement----------------------------------------------------

Hear ye, Hear ye,

The most honourable guildmaster of the Mercenaries Guild let it be known that the Mercenaries Guild is setting aside funds to instituate grants of money for their members in need of such. The fund is created to aid the forces of law and order and to counter the growing threat of increasingly powerful gangs of bandits roaming the lands.

Any member of the Mercenary Guild is elegible to apply for grant money of up to 3000 Florins .
The sole condition is that the money be used for the purpose of increasing the numbers and improving the equippment of the mercenary armies. The money shall not be used to finance castle enlargements or pay for personal luxury items of festivities.

The money shall be given as a grant, not as a loan, and hence no formal return of the money is required other than the faithful sevice to the Guild and the law of the land. Beneficients of the grant scheme will be listed in the Guilds records and, given a suitable period of time and given a successful development of their carrers, may be invited to make donations to the Guild in support of the Guilds junior members and to increase the glory and splendour of the Guild.

May the glory of the Guild be unsurpassed and know no equal,

Richard de Beauchamp, Master of the Mercenaries Guild

P.S. To supply the funds for the grant scheme, plans to extend and redecorate the Senior Member's Commonroom have been scrapped for the time beeing.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- --------------------------------------------

Chimpyang

08-12-2004, 10:02

I'll yttake Mission 15 Bandit

Sociopsychoactive

08-12-2004, 11:30

"What? AGAIN???!" Screamed Sociopsychoactive on hearing that another messenger had been killed and the body discovered this morning. "Why there must be a pack of bandits preying on them, but untill we get our messengers running safely again we can't do anything about it! Curse those lawless dogs!"

((As you guessed already, my comp went pop again. It is in the process of being repaired, but this may take some time. Untill further notice I am opting out of any missions.))

Nigel

08-12-2004, 21:27

Too bad, Socio, to be cut off from all messengers. Well, at least the occasional pidgeon message is getting through, But that is hardly enough to sign up for an escort contract. So I guess, I'll have to wait until you manage to set up camp outside of McGregor's bow-range ~D

Chimyang, I've put you down for mission #15. Good luck without your Turcopoles.

Oh, and Guy emailed me. He is still having problems to login and post here. But told me he wants to sign up for mission #17.

Nigel

08-13-2004, 23:46

ok, I'll be of on holidays tomorrow (excited.... :jumping: )

Feel free, over the next two weeks to sign up and arrange battles by yourselves if you want to - I guess you will all know how teh game works by now. Post the result here and I will go and sort out the payments when I get back.

Good Luck and have fun (I know I will ~D )

KyodaiSteeleye

08-14-2004, 18:07

have a good holiday, mate. :scastle:

Nigel

08-29-2004, 22:09

Greetings bandits and mercenaries,

I just returned from my holiday. Great time. I enjoyed it a lot.
But it is also good to be back to the Guild. ~:)

I see that, while I was away, the demo for RTW came out. Whow, the Colosseum is overflowing with activity.

Here, at B&M, things seem to have been more quiet. Well, I guess everyone is busy playing the demo. Still, some players signed up for missions and if noone opposed them, they shall get their due reward.

Octavian has long been waiting for the shipment of beer. Well, as I could not find a Mercenary to guard it, I wanted to ask the City Guards. But even with them I had no luck. So the brave peasants set off on their own and, not surprisingly, fell easy pray to Octavians men. They saved their lives by handig over the shipment without a fight. 100 barrels of beer go right into Octavian's camp.

Pretty much the same is true for Chimpyang. 100 boxes of honey, worth 1500 Florins, are easily his.

But at least my 100 boxes of white lace went safely from Brussels to Paris. Guy met no opposition and brough the shipment through without a scratch. The promised reward of 1400 Florins shall be his.

Well, a few more missions are open, and a couple more weeks to go.
Mercenaries, don't be shy to take up the grant from the Guildmaster. Any money you recieve from the guild will not be counted as yours when I work out the score in the end, but it should help you to give Octavian and the other bandits a few good battles. Just enjoy the game and have fun.

Xiahou Liao

08-30-2004, 17:10

Sorry about my absence guys. I've had work and other things taking over me. o.o; So I'm back now...school starts tomorrow for me by the way.

Nigel

08-30-2004, 22:47

Wellcome back Liao,

good to see you return. I can see you are in need for money. Well, we need to support the mercenaries, or else law and order will fall to pieces and those bandits take over the land. I will see if I can get the Guildmaster to help you (and other Mercs) out with a loan to get you over the upcoming payday. And you still got some nice missions lined up, too. ~:)

octavian

08-31-2004, 03:53

hey Liao... i think i will be able to play you tomorrow evening. Ang, would you be able to make it online at around 8 GMT -5?

i would also be willing to take a hold of that fish... beer is good, but day after day of beer and deer and more beer, its just too much. ~:)

Nigel

08-31-2004, 21:16

ok, Octavian, glad you are taking care of this delivery.

hey, wait a minute....

NOOO, it's that bandit again. Looking for some good food to go with that beer he has already stolen from me. Grrrrrr ~:angry:

Well, then, I need a very brave mercenary to take on this mission.
And I recommend accepting the Guildmasters money - you may need it against Octavian's army.

Axeknight

08-31-2004, 23:14

Could I take a grant to the sum of 650 fl please? Not sure if I can play before Sept 17th, so 650fl would keep me out of the dungeon if I can't.

Nigel

09-01-2004, 18:08

Sure, Axeknight, the Guild is happy to support its members in these times of hardship.

Times are hard indeed for the Mercenaries. But it seems the Bandits have been doing quite well. At this pay day, Shaka and Chimpyang are easily able to pay their men, with money to spare. Octavian still had his store full of beer and his soldiers are happy to accept that in lieu of money (no point selling the beer, giving the money to the troops who then go out and buy the beer again ~;) ). Only Steeleye is short of a few florins, leaving his highlanders somewhat disappointed.

~:cheers: ~:cheers: :tomato: ~:cheers:

In the mercenaries camp, only Guy has managed to earn enough money to pay his troops. Well done Guy ~:cool: . Axeknight will get his grant, but what about the others? Socio is still stuck in the marshlands, cut off from communication (computer probs), Liao has just returned, full of energy, but with empty coffers, and Amatzu too is short of some Florins.

Well, I had a word with the Guildmaster of the Mercenary Guild and we decided to give grants to cover the missing money for all the mercenaries. With the bandits so strong, we just need every lawful fighter in the field, not in the dungeon. And the offer for the bigger grants is still there. Lets hope we can still put an army together to stand up to those bandits.

:knight: :knight: :knight:

Nigel

09-02-2004, 22:13

Meanwhile, I got note of a mission which could interest bandits and mercenaries on either side.

-------------------------------------------------------------- Mission #18 -----------------------------------------------------

Their dispute goes back a long way. The rich merchant cities Arlington and Bramston have been arguing over the toll rights of the bridge between them for many years. Recently however, the King has issued a new law, which effectively means a very significant increase in the profit, which is gained from toll bridges. So all of a sudden there is a lot of money at stake now, and the moderate dispute has grown into a full out conflict. Both cities are now seeking the help of armed fighers to secure the bridge for themselves.

Yes, this is about a lot of money, and in their greed, the two cities care little about where the help comes from that secures their advantage. Each of them is willing to sign up mercenaries or bandits alike. 1200 Florins on sign up and 1000 Florins of victory bonus are offered by Arlington. Bramston offers only 600 Florins on sign up but 1000 Florins for victory. Ownership of the bridge will be granted to the side, whose men hold both sides of the bridge by the end of the day. No money at all will be payed out to anyone whose men are seen merely camping on their side without making any attempt to cross the river.

Signed up for Arlington : Steeleye
Signed up for Bramston : Octavian

Mission completed.
There is a nice writeup here (https://forums.totalwar.org/vb/showthread.php?p=581359&posted=1#post581359)

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ---------------------------------------------

Map details :
1v1, flatcoastalriver01.
Summer, Southern European, 35 min, Arlington = attackers side

octavian

09-02-2004, 23:13

GAH, i will sign up for Bramston if i am allowed ~:)

Nigel

09-04-2004, 10:18

lol, Octavian, you sure are keen on making a name for yourself as our most active player.
OK

The shock was great when the news reached the town. Hearing that their rival city had managed to secure the services of the lands most feared and famous bandit, the people of Arlington increased the promised revard to 1200 Fl plus 1000 Fl for victory. They are also promising the support of their militia to any man brave enough to take on the feared bandit.

:knight:

octavian

09-04-2004, 20:55

hey, whats the point of doing something if you dont do it well and give it your all? ~:) ~;) ~D btw, i think Bramston may have increase my bonus if i should be so fortunate as to win... otherwise i may decide, to um... let me see, withdraw my support shall we say? perhaps even work for their wealthy neighbors...

hey, who ever said bandits had to be chivalrious?

also, it would appear that there is no merc brave (or perhaps foolish) enough to take that dried fish through my lands, shall we say, give them 5 more days, then say that i am either A) the winner or B) going to be faced by the town militia?

Nigel

09-05-2004, 10:16

That's ok, Octavian. I am actually quite happy about players as active as you are. ~:)

As for the fish, 5 more days (10 days after you signed up) is the idea. After that we see what we do. It could be eigther A) or B).

How are you and Xiahou Liao getting on with mission #12 ?
Perhaps you can suggest a few battel dates to him.

From the people of Bramston, I have not got a definite response yet. But at the moment they are so anxious to obtain posession of the bridge, that they would promise you almost everything. We shall see ~;)

KyodaiSteeleye

09-06-2004, 19:16

Guillaume looked at the parchment. 'hmhmmmhhmm...control of bridge.....hmmmmhmmhmhmm...1200 florins!'. 'Boy! - send a reply to the alderman in Arlington, tell him The Colt will secure the bridge for him'. 'oh, and tell him that i've heard that that scoundrel Octavian has been contracted by Bramston, and as such as well as the payment, i will require support from the town militia'.

'That Octavian has been far too successful for my liking, as of late, the local urchins have started telling glorified stories about him! - i won't have it, he's trying to steal my well deserved reputation!'.

'Buiselm! Tell those goodfornothing, whinging, stinking scotsmen that they can stop cursing and giving me the evil eye and start sharpening their swords instead - we've got a job to do.'

Nigel

09-06-2004, 20:06

Emergincy meetings are called at the town halls of the two cities. While the alderman of Arlington debates with his advisors how many men of the city guard he can spare to support Steeleye, the councillors of Bramston are debating how serious to take Octavian's threats and how much addtional money they should offer to please the powerful bandit.

octavian

09-07-2004, 21:34

hey Nigel... i just need to check on something for some of my calculations... has my money from bramston already been added to my supply of florins?

Nigel

09-07-2004, 23:24

no, Octavian. It has not been added yet. Still to come after the mission.

octavian

09-09-2004, 21:12

1200 Florins on sign up are offered by Arlington. Bramston offers only 600 Florins on sign up
Signed up for Arlington : Steeleye
Signed up for Bramston : Octavian

ahem ~:)

Nigel

09-09-2004, 21:41

Yes Octavian,

Arlington had originally only offered 800 Fl on sign up. But when they saw that their rival got you under contract, they feared - knowing that you had the strongest army around - that they would not be able to recruit a fighter for their cause and increased the money (as well as promising a little support from the town militia).

Now the councillors of Bramston have had a long debate about this matter and hoping to assure your continued services, they have decided to increase the reward on successful completion to 1600 Fl (giving you both an equal total on victory).

The stakes have surely risen in this gamble. Now it is time to arrange for the battle time.

If I am to take part commanding the militia, it would have to be next week, since I am away for the time 18th - 29th September. How about next Tuesday at 20:00 pm GMT?

octavian

09-10-2004, 02:54

i believe you said in that post however... upon sign up ~;p perhaps i misread that to mean that once i sign up i would get that money... and you really meant that that was the garuanteed amount that we would get. doesn't really matter though, just clearing things up in my own mind.

Liao would this Saturday or Sunday work for you. with school starting up, it is very hard for me to get on the computer at a specific time of day (homework and such) could you get back to me with a few times if saturday or sunday would work for you.

Nigel and Steeleye... see above ~;p

also, it twould appear that as of today, it has been ten days since i signed up for that fish... could we resolve that mission before monday as well (i would hate to go another week with just beer to survive on.

~:cheers:

Nigel

09-10-2004, 21:05

Octavian, weekend days are usually not too good for me. However, I should be able to make it Sunday at 20:00 GMT. Well, I'll try to log on to MSN and see if I find you there and hopefully Steeleye, too.

Ohh and you know what they say: beer is a liquid form of bread. ~;)

octavian

09-10-2004, 21:19

ok, 3:00 sunday works for me as far as i can tell right now. now all we have to do is confirm it with steeleye.

also, it twould appear that as of today, it has been ten days since i signed up for that fish... could we resolve that mission before monday as well (i would hate to go another week with just liquid bread to survive on. ~;p

Chimpyang

09-10-2004, 22:40

Hi,
Sorry i havent been very active of late.....i'm wondering, is it possible to liquifdate all my men ito cash....for when rome comes out?

octavian

09-11-2004, 19:16

ang, i believe B & M as we know it ends with the release of Rome... of course, it is possible that we can convince Nigel to start another (different theme prolly) once Rome comes out.

KyodaiSteeleye

09-11-2004, 23:58

I should be able to make 8.00 tomorrow. See you in the foyer.

d.

Nigel

09-13-2004, 18:56

The battle over the toll-bridge has been fought yesterday. :duel:

I'll leave it to the heroes of the day to tell their story. Suffice it to say that in the late hours of the day the fight was decided in favour or Arlington. Octavian's soldiers fought well and also managed to cross the river and set foot on the bank held by Steeleye's men and some Arlington city troops. But in the end they had to surrender the field to them. The city of Bramston still expresses their gratitude for the support and hands over the agreed sign up fee (attached a note that their Sherif might just happen to look the other way if Octavian choose to waylay some Arlington merchant wagons).

octavian

09-14-2004, 02:55

aye, waylaying Arlington merchants is something i would like to do very much. perhaps you could come up with a mission along those lines for me, perhaps even a raid into the farms surrounding (assuming there are a few) Arlington to burn and destroy crops and livestock.

KyodaiSteeleye

09-14-2004, 14:06

Mission 18 Battle Report

Well, here was a sorry tale. Neither Arlington nor Brampton could secure a mercenary commander to secure the bridge for them, so both made dealings with the Devil. On hearing that Brampon had secured the brigand Octavian, whose army could not be matched in number, Arlington sent messengers to the only other bandit captain likely to stand a chance against him, Guillaume, with promises of substantial payments, and the services of the town militia.

So it was that both bandit armies lined up on either side of the river, with only the narrow pack-horse bridge between them, and the rising sides of the valley making any leeway once a unit had crossed very hard. Guillaume sent his archers forward first to soften up Octavian's front line. Octavian's pavise crossbow companies in turn opened up on the archers. The Colt's archers came off the worse, although Octavian's front ranks of men at arms suffered significant casualties. Once their arrows were spent, Guillaume withdrew his archers and lined up his infantry to storm the bridge. First across were his best unit of men-at-arms. They reached the far side, but no sooner had they gained the far bank, were engaged by a number of Octavian's companies, who with overpowering numbers and the slope behind them, cut the attackers down quickly.

The remaining troops fled, even before they could be reinforced by a second unit of The Colt's infantry crossing the bridge. Octavian's pursuing troops crashed into these reinforcements on the bridge, and so ensued the start of a brutal battle for control of the narrow crossing. Guillaume ordered the Arlington militia arbalesters to support the troops fighting on the bridge, meanwhile Octavian's crossbowmen poured quarrels onto Guillaume's attackers in turn. The men on the bridge could not hold any formation and scrabbled to keep their feet as they were pushed forward by more troops charging in. This was not helped by the increasing number of bodies underfoot and the gore of battle. Men that fell were quickly crushed or butchered. Soon the bodies were lain two or three deep and troops in the back ranks started throwing the bodies of the dead and dying into the river to try and aid their progress.

Although the initial missile and melee battle had gone Octavian's way, the meatgrinder of the bridge meant that no side could gain control and neither side was making much ground. The Colt relied on his superior numbers of infantry, fed slowly in to reinforce the melee, whilst the militia's arbalests did grevious harm to Octavian's packed units on the far end of the bridge. After 20 minutes of butchery, the last of Guillaume's men at arms were retreating and he knew that his less reliable clansmen would not hold true in a straight fight. He therefore allowed his final troops on the bridge to run without support. By this stage, Octavian had spent nearly all of his infantry and he had been forced to engage his cavalry, who impetuously pursued the Colt's retreating troops over the bridge and into the arms of the spearmen of the Arlington militia, flanked by scots clansmen.

With his cavalry in an unwinnable fight, and his army outnumbered through the bloody attrition, Octavian knew that eventually he would be forced to submit. In order to save his remaining troops, he ordered the withdrawal, leaving the field to The Colt and the mightily relieved Arlington militia, who had thought themselves doomed due to countless accounts of previous battles where Octavian's men had butchered militia units to the man.

Although Arlington gained the bridge and the substantial toll revenues, this was a sad day for the kingdom - it is said that the river ran red for two days. Not that neighbouring towns and the mercenaries guild were too bothered - after all, everyone is safer if brigands and murderers kill each other, right?