The Battle of Trent

[GeneralHankerchief]

Turn 2 feedback

Turn 2 feedback to the Imperialists

Feedback to Peter

Your men advance, and to the east you see that Ruppel's are doing the same. But to the west... nothing.

You know that Tancred is actively commanding over there, as you see him ordering his spearmen and DFKs to switch places. But he doesn't advance, and he doesn't give you those spearmen and crossbows that you requested either. Silently, you curse that wing of the army, for no matter who is commanding it, it won't do what you ask.

Your west flank is now wide open, but there is the chance that Tancred can get to it and counter-flank should the Republicans decide to attack. Still though, with Lothar up, that's a lot of infantry on that one flank. This might not end well.

Also disconcerting is the fact that Maximilian von Hapsburg and his army have not shown up at all, despite your orders to place him behind Ehrhart Ruppel. Max Zirn is currently occupying that area, but you see no sign of jostling from Hapsburg's men. Angrily, you send a courier to Hapsburg's section of the Imperialist camp. It will arrive Turn 4 and you will be able to take limited control of his army at that time if Hapsburg does not show up before then. Until then, however... well, you had better hope he shows up.

It's time to focus on what's in front of you. You have advanced and now you must start fighting. The arquebusiers and DFKs of the Republicans lie in front of you, but now they are backed by spearmen, courtesy of Jan Zirn. To the east, Ludwig von Bohmen is still refusing Duke Arnold's flank. To the west, well... you'd rather not think about that.

This is going to be one tough nut to crack.

(OOC: Just for clarification:

• The Republicans (all of them) can attack Peter and Ruppel Turn 3.
• Peter and Ruppel can attack the Republicans Turn 3.
• Athalwolf/Tancred and the Imperialist Rear Guard can attack the Republicans on Turn 3 ONLY IF the Republicans attack Peter and Ruppel.
• The Republicans can only attack Athalwolf/Tancred and the Imperialist Rear Guard on Turn 3 ONLY IF Athalwolf/Tancred and the Imperialist Rear Guard advance.)

Feedback to Ruppel

Your mounted crossbowmen retire without doing any damage. It appears that the Republican crossbowmen are well-placed. If you want to order them to do anything, it will have to be under fire, assuming of course they focus on you.

You have advanced and are in position to attack the Pikemen of Ludwig von Bohmen this turn. However, the fact remains that they have sustained no damage so far, and the heavy contingent of cavalry remains on the extreme east of the battlefield.

In addition, it appears that although the portion of Imperial Knights have done as you have ordered, they still do not answer directly to you. If you want them under your direct command, you might have to be more... direct... with the Kaiser. Control of them might be pivotal in cracking that flank and wrecking Arnold.

Finally, you now have backup in Max Zirn. He is positioned behind you and slightly on your flank. It would be inexcusable if you let an enemy obtain that position on you; you are lucky he is on your side.

(OOC: Just for clarification:

• The Republicans (all of them) can attack Peter and Ruppel Turn 3.
• Peter and Ruppel can attack the Republicans Turn 3.
• Athalwolf/Tancred and the Imperialist Rear Guard can attack the Republicans on Turn 3 ONLY IF the Republicans attack Peter and Ruppel.
• The Republicans can only attack Athalwolf/Tancred and the Imperialist Rear Guard on Turn 3 ONLY IF Athalwolf/Tancred and the Imperialist Rear Guard advance.)

Feedback to Tancred

You shuffle your infantry, but as you are doing this you notice that the men to your east are all advancing. Were you supposed to do this too? You hope not. This would definitely not be a good start to your first command in years.

A few minutes pass. Couriers from the Kaiser start coming, first asking why you aren't advancing, and then why you didn't give him the crossbowmen and that one unit of Armored Sergeants as ordered.

Uh-oh.

Angrily shooing away the couriers takes ages, and when you are finally able to take a view of the situation you notice the Kaiser's men way out in front, his flank wide open. Facing you are a ridiculous amount of soldiers, courtesy of Hugo de Cervole and Lothar Steffen. Should they try and flank Peter this turn, you would be in a good position to counter-flank, but still... that's a lot of infantry.

You had first better be able to explain yourself to the Kaiser, maybe even defend yourself. You knew nothing about his requests! Secondly, you had better think of a good strategy to defend against this.

(OOC: Just for clarification:

• The Republicans (all of them) can attack Peter and Ruppel Turn 3.
• Peter and Ruppel can attack the Republicans Turn 3.
• Athalwolf/Tancred and the Imperialist Rear Guard can attack the Republicans on Turn 3 ONLY IF the Republicans attack Peter and Ruppel.
• The Republicans can only attack Athalwolf/Tancred and the Imperialist Rear Guard on Turn 3 ONLY IF Athalwolf/Tancred and the Imperialist Rear Guard advance.)

Feedback to Dieter

You deploy in the center, behind the Kaiser, eager for a shot at Arnold. If he advances, you just might get it too, since you pretty much command the only infantry in the center now that Peter has split his dismounted Imperial Knights up.

Of course, you might be asked to assist on the flank, too. For whatever reason, Tancred von Tyrolia has not advanced, leaving it vulnerable against a large amount of infantry, courtesy of another old foe in Lothar Steffen.

No matter where you go, your intervention will be helpful at worst and decisive at best, especially since Maximilian von Hapsburg is nowhere to be found.

(OOC: Just for clarification:

• The Republicans (all of them) can attack Peter and Ruppel Turn 3.
• Peter and Ruppel can attack the Republicans Turn 3.
• Athalwolf/Tancred and the Imperialist Rear Guard can attack the Republicans on Turn 3 ONLY IF the Republicans attack Peter and Ruppel.
• The Republicans can only attack Athalwolf/Tancred and the Imperialist Rear Guard on Turn 3 ONLY IF Athalwolf/Tancred and the Imperialist Rear Guard advance.)

Feedback to Max

You set up your men noticeably on Ruppel's flank, ready for the plan. You hope that Ruppel, a cagey general, doesn't notice.

The possibility is, if either Ruppel or Bohmen advances, the two will get into a clash this turn. You will not be able to join in unless it is Bohmen who advances on Ruppel and not the other way around. Either way, you might have to wait for the signal from Arnold. No sense in enjoying an Illuminati victory if you commit too early and don't live to see the end of the battle.

(OOC: Just for clarification:

• The Republicans (all of them) can attack Peter and Ruppel Turn 3.
• Peter and Ruppel can attack the Republicans Turn 3.
• Athalwolf/Tancred and the Imperialist Rear Guard can attack the Republicans on Turn 3 ONLY IF the Republicans attack Peter and Ruppel.
• The Republicans can only attack Athalwolf/Tancred and the Imperialist Rear Guard on Turn 3 ONLY IF Athalwolf/Tancred and the Imperialist Rear Guard advance.)

Feedback to Hapsburg

Instead of deploying, you instead order extra breakfast for your men. You figure they will need the meat and beer - oh yes! beer! How lovely it is... - as the day slogs on.

You are probably going to get a courier from Peter demanding you to deploy and relieving you of command soon enough, so if you desire any glory for the Hapsburg name by the end of the day you had better say enough with the breakfast and get set up for the battle.

(OOC: Just for clarification:

• The Republicans (all of them) can attack Peter and Ruppel Turn 3.
• Peter and Ruppel can attack the Republicans Turn 3.
• Athalwolf/Tancred and the Imperialist Rear Guard can attack the Republicans on Turn 3 ONLY IF the Republicans attack Peter and Ruppel.
• The Republicans can only attack Athalwolf/Tancred and the Imperialist Rear Guard on Turn 3 ONLY IF Athalwolf/Tancred and the Imperialist Rear Guard advance.)

Feedback to Fritz

Good news! Your men have arrived on the battlefield in a timely fashion and will be able to deploy on Turn 3.

You must send me a map of exactly what order your forces will be in and roughly where they will be located in conjunction with the rest of the Imperial armies. You hope that you have arrived early enough to turn the tide.

Turn 2 feedback to the Republicans

Feedback to Arnold

Well, everyone's up, and the Imperialists are probably sufficiently scared of your left, especially considering the fact that the Imperialists on that side did not move.

Your strategy of staying put has worked, as you now have much more flexibility to deal with events than Peter does. The Imperialists can now be attacked in the center and on the right. In addition, Max Zirn has arrived behind Ruppel; he is in a good position to flip.

The Kaiser's west flank is wide open, and considering the amount of volume you have on that flank you might not even need your ace in the hole. There is the possibility that the Imperialist wing that is lagging can counter-flank, however, but you still have a ton of infantry there. Any place where you choose to attack will be bloody.

You get an overall look at the situation. Maybe it's time to initiate the final stage of the plan? The decision is up to you.

(OOC: Just for clarification:

• The Republicans (all of them) can attack Peter and Ruppel Turn 3.
• Peter and Ruppel can attack the Republicans Turn 3.
• Athalwolf/Tancred and the Imperialist Rear Guard can attack the Republicans on Turn 3 ONLY IF the Republicans attack Peter and Ruppel.
• The Republicans can only attack Athalwolf/Tancred and the Imperialist Rear Guard on Turn 3 ONLY IF Athalwolf/Tancred and the Imperialist Rear Guard advance.)

Feedback to Bohmen

As ordered, none of your men move. Ruppel doesn't make a serious incursion on your position, and to your relief his horsemen do not savage your pikemen after it has been proven that Arnold's crossbows will fire back.

However, he has ordered a general advance and *will* be in position to assault your flank on this turn. It is up to you to decide how to respond. Bernhard Steffen will most certainly have to cooperate as well.

(OOC: Just for clarification:

• The Republicans (all of them) can attack Peter and Ruppel Turn 3.
• Peter and Ruppel can attack the Republicans Turn 3.
• Athalwolf/Tancred and the Imperialist Rear Guard can attack the Republicans on Turn 3 ONLY IF the Republicans attack Peter and Ruppel.
• The Republicans can only attack Athalwolf/Tancred and the Imperialist Rear Guard on Turn 3 ONLY IF Athalwolf/Tancred and the Imperialist Rear Guard advance.)

Feedback to Hugo

You reorganize your forces, but you notice all of your cavalry - Reiters included - not responding. Bad luck on your part? Orders simply getting lost? You certainly hope so.

Whatever the cause, your cavalry remain in the front, your Reiters not skirmishing the enemy. The only reason they moved at all is because they were jostled by Lothar Steffen's men, coming up in force.

You now co-command a massive force on the flank. To the direct north, the Kaiser's flank is open, as the western wing of his army did not advance along with Peter and Ruppel. You might have to do something about this.

There is an extremely good chance that you will be counter-flanked should you press the Kaiser, but you and Lothar do have a lot of infantry. Perhaps Athalwolf and Tancred can be checked while the Kaiser's flank is still destroyed.

One thing is for certain: As increases the number of men on your flank, so do the number of possibilities.

(OOC: Just for clarification:

• The Republicans (all of them) can attack Peter and Ruppel Turn 3.
• Peter and Ruppel can attack the Republicans Turn 3.
• Athalwolf/Tancred and the Imperialist Rear Guard can attack the Republicans on Turn 3 ONLY IF the Republicans attack Peter and Ruppel.
• The Republicans can only attack Athalwolf/Tancred and the Imperialist Rear Guard on Turn 3 ONLY IF Athalwolf/Tancred and the Imperialist Rear Guard advance.)

Feedback to Bernhard

Your men remain inert, as do Ludwig von Bohmen's. Ehrhart Ruppel's mounted crossbowmen make an attempt on your cavalry but are quickly chased away by the three regiments of foot archers in Arnold's army.

You notice that Ruppel is advancing and might make an attempt to take Bohmen's right flank by force next turn. Your cavalry will be sorely needed if you are to be victorious in this pivotal part of the battlefield.

(OOC: Just for clarification:

• The Republicans (all of them) can attack Peter and Ruppel Turn 3.
• Peter and Ruppel can attack the Republicans Turn 3.
• Athalwolf/Tancred and the Imperialist Rear Guard can attack the Republicans on Turn 3 ONLY IF the Republicans attack Peter and Ruppel.
• The Republicans can only attack Athalwolf/Tancred and the Imperialist Rear Guard on Turn 3 ONLY IF Athalwolf/Tancred and the Imperialist Rear Guard advance.)

Feedback to Lothar

You march your men in force to the left flank. Things do not go exactly as planned - evidently, there have been some problems with Hugo de Cervole's cavalry - but they come close enough.

With one deployment, you have pretty much taken over command of the flank, especially since Cervole gave his gunners to Arnold. In any case, your flank is now to be feared, and Peter's is wide open. You could go for it, but Hugo is technically closer and you have Athalwolf von Salza and Tancred von Tyrolia to deal with. They could easily counter-flank if unchecked, ruining your plan.

In either case, it looks pretty good for your plan overall. Max Zirn is up and ready to wreak havoc on Ehrhart Ruppel's flank. But you have to worry about you right now.

(OOC: Just for clarification:

• The Republicans (all of them) can attack Peter and Ruppel Turn 3.
• Peter and Ruppel can attack the Republicans Turn 3.
• Athalwolf/Tancred and the Imperialist Rear Guard can attack the Republicans on Turn 3 ONLY IF the Republicans attack Peter and Ruppel.
• The Republicans can only attack Athalwolf/Tancred and the Imperialist Rear Guard on Turn 3 ONLY IF Athalwolf/Tancred and the Imperialist Rear Guard advance.)

Feedback to Jan

You deploy in the center, providing some much-needed spear support to Arnold in this critical area. If Peter and his cavalry charge, it will be up to you to hold them back.

You think about it: In your early 20s, with very little battle or political experience, you are tasked to hold to hold potentially the most important position on the battlefield in the largest battle... ever. Good luck.

(OOC: Just for clarification:

• The Republicans (all of them) can attack Peter and Ruppel Turn 3.
• Peter and Ruppel can attack the Republicans Turn 3.
• Athalwolf/Tancred and the Imperialist Rear Guard can attack the Republicans on Turn 3 ONLY IF the Republicans attack Peter and Ruppel.
• The Republicans can only attack Athalwolf/Tancred and the Imperialist Rear Guard on Turn 3 ONLY IF Athalwolf/Tancred and the Imperialist Rear Guard advance.)

Feedback to Matthias

It is morning, your men are marching... but there are problems getting there. Apparently two wheels at once on the Great Cross have broken, slowing and then stopping your men as they attempt to get it fixed. Sometimes you regret bringing all those Crusaders. No other reasonable soldier would worry about such a thing.

Needless to say, you will not be arriving on Turn 3 and can only hope that the battlefield is not far away so you can finally hit on Turn 4.

Orders

Imperialist Orders

Engage the gunners with the pavise crossbowmen. All troops of Peter's army stand by for defending the crossbows.

Tancred/Athalwolf's force move forward to line up with the rest of the armies.

1. Spears hold ground, if cavalry approaches, attempt to intercept. If Cavalry cannot be caught up to, fall into their rear instead at earliest convenience.

2. Heavy infantry engage enemy heavy infantry if they approach, otherwise support spearmen against enemy attacks (other than missiles)

3. HQ to stay close to cavalry ensuring orders are followed. If cavalry attacks, attempt to form a pincer and attack the enemy from the other side unless blocked.

4. Cavalry to stay out of combat until enemy ready to charge. Then either flank or hit their rear and chase down routers if not endangered unnecessarily. Priority targets are heavy infantry and enemy cavalry. Do not get too close to front of pike formations.

5. Mounted crossbows to ride further to the right of the map (the one you posted) and flank harass enemy if they approach. Priority Cavalry and spearmen. If enemy locked in combat with our forces, attempt to fall into enemy's rear by charging.

OK. I will be moving my forces a bit closer to the front, not wanting to lag even further behind. That said, I would love to still have the possibility of flanking anyone trying to flank our forces on our right[...].

Also, I'm ordering my ranged units to move in front of my spearmen, and engage any enemy unit in range. Cavalry taking preference over infantry, and ranged units taking preference over anything else - of everything in range. I will take a more centered position, trying to make the communication between my regiments somewhat more efficient ( I hope).

Any questions don't hesitate to ask.

Will move up to the line taking the flank. Only movement the spearmen to the outside.

It's pretty straightforward.

Thanks for letting me send them in. Hapsburg might as well have joined the Republicans than face Peter after not showing up to fight.

Ignoramus.

Deployment (Mostly to clarify the screenshots):

Divisions 2 and 3 will deploy to General Ruppel's right rear in the formation from the first screenshot, with Fritz and his HQ directly behind them as noted. Division 4 will deploy behind the Kaiser on his left rear (Assuming I'm allowed to deploy across two zones, if not put everything behind Ruppel just with the crossbows on the side the Kaiser is on). Division seven will deploy directly behind those crossbowmen. Divisions five and six will deploy on Fritz's far left, near the edge of the field, side by side.

Orders by division:

Division 1, Fritz, is to hold ground and maintain position behind the infantry screen of the main formation. He is only to be committed to battle in the event that the center of the formation is broken open entirely or the Armoured sergeants rebel.

Division 2, the infantry screen, is to remain on a defensive and reactive footing. All spearmen will be on guard against a charge. Spearmen at the front line are to hold against all comers and remain on guard until ordered otherwise. The spearmen behind the gunners have the primary task of watching for enemy flanking movements. If at any time the infantry formation is threatened with flanking by cavalry or infantry the rear spearmen should wheel 90 degrees towards their respective ends of the line and move in haste to support the flank. The line is to hold, not pursuing the enemy if they flee, and not moving to aid allied soldiers beyond the formation if they are engaged or even visibly in trouble.

If the gunners should be forced to retreat from cavalry the spearmen behind them should advance through the retreating guns to engage with the enemy. If the gunners should be forced to retreat by infantry the foot knights should move forward into the gap to engage them while the rear spearmen hold and watch the flanks.

Foot knights are further under standing orders to keep a close eye on the Armoured Sergeants. If those men show signs of reluctance to obey orders they should be gently reminded of exactly who is holding position to their rear. If a company of Armoured sergeants fails to obey orders and flees, or rebels they will be replaced, if possible, by mercenary spearmen from behind the gunners.

Division 3, the gunners, are to maintain their place in the formation with skirmish on (Which acts as 'fire at will' rather than 'fire by ranks' for guns). During deployment they should not fire unless directly fired upon or attacked. In the event of a charge against their position by cavalry or infantry they should cease skirmishing (Turn it off and order them by hand) and withdraw in haste behind the spearmen on their flank, away from the foot knights, and not directly to their rear. This will allow them, if the pressure becomes too great, to fire into the melee or even enter battle as reinforcements without having to penetrate and disrupt the spear line.

Division 4, the crossbowmen, are ordered to hold position and await assignment of a primary target. The mercenaries should be placed on skirmish while the Pavise crossbowmen remain off skirmish with guard on. Standing orders are to attack on own recognizance only in the event that the main infantry formation is under assault. The mercenary crossbowmen should understand that if the Pavisecrossbowmen show reluctance to obey orders they should be gentle reminded of who has them flanked and covered from their rear.

Division 5, the Teutons, are ordered to deploy on the far left flank and await orders as to a primary target. Standing orders are not to engage under any circumstances unless under orders.

Division 6, the unpaired Merc Knights, are ordered to deploy on the right of the Teutons, also near the far flank and await orders. Standing orders are to support the main infantry formation by flanking any enemy force which is in melee with the infantry.
Division 7, the paired Merc Knights, are ordered to deploy directly behind the crossbowmen and await orders. Standing orders are to support the mercenary crossbowmen if the Pavise crossbowmen should rebel, or to quickly flank and charge any infantry which attacks the crossbowmen.

(Note: Four in-game screenshots sent to me to clarify positions. Since it was sent to me via email, I didn’t bother uploading them to an image hoster just to put them here.)

No orders from Elite Ferret. Late orders from Ignoramus but I let them in.

Republican orders

To Republican Army Commanders and GH.

Alright you Dogs of WAR!!

We will make a general advance across the entire front. At minimum I want to be engaged across the Centre and Right flank by the end of this turn!! We will then push on our left with Hugo and Lothar!!

The LEFT FLANK: Lothar, Hugo, you can send your skirmishers forward.

If Tancred and von Salza hold their positions then have your Spear Division engage their Spears and hit them with your Cav fo maximum effect. Keep your DFK Div ready to hit the flank of the Imperial Centre if it presents itself.

RIGHT FLANK: Ludwig flatten out your Foot division once you start moving forward. Hit Ruppel and his Cavalry if he presents himself.

Bernhard, begin flanking further right...don't engage this turn unless to counter charge being attacked yourself, the only exception is to hit Ruppel and his cavalry if he is available to attack.

CENTRE:

Jan, if you would be so kind to have your Spear Division replace my DFK Div...it's a straight swap my Lord.

ALL: All missile divisions to fire at targets available in the following order; Cav, Heavy Inf; Missile

MEN!! MAKE SURE you hold the line and don't expose your divisions flanks to the Imperials staggered formation in the middle!! KEEP THE LINE STRAIGHT EVEN IF IT MEANS NOT ENGAGING!!

***As the orders go out and you read the hurried scrawl of the Dread Duke at each of your body guard regiments your respective retinue gasp as a massive RED flag is raised over the position of Arnold, as it's slowly waved from side to side in the breeze you can all clearly make out the Silver ICON of the Illuminati All Seeing Eye in it's centre.***

----------------
Arnold specific:

DFK Div: Let the front line pass you and take up position where Jan's Spear Division was. Look to reinforce in depth the Gunners if they are charged...keep them alive.

Gothic Div: Keep you eye peeled to the Right...if those Pikes or Two-Handers look like getting overwhelmed then support.

Xbow Div: Fire at targets available in the following order; Cav, Heavy Inf; Missile

Gunner Div: Fire at targets available in the following order; Cav, Heavy Inf; Missile. If you are attacked then fall back and have the DFK Div reinforce the hole in a deep formation.

Bernhard specific:

Cav Div: Flank further right. If Ruppel is available or pinned by Ludwig then hit him in the flank with your cavalry.

Map:

https://img176.imageshack.us/my.php?...urn3allpm1.jpg

Infantry: Start moving back into a horizontal line at the level of the far left Pik regiment (so that that one only has to turn). Once all regiments are level again, start moving forwards. Should Ruppel and his cavalry present themselves, engage them. The Zweihänder regiment should stick behind the far right Pike Regiment.

Cavalry: Remain just to the right, and just behind the far right Pike regiment in order to protect the flanks.

https://img176.imageshack.us/img176/...urn3allpm1.jpg

Hughes de Cervole :

Knights : Charge on the west flank of the Imperial center. Aim for the foot knights. Do not begin charge if Duke Lothar's Foot Knights do not seem to follow. If such is the case you are to join me and repel any flanking maneuver on our line of spears.
If charged before engagement, you are to counter-charge.

Spearmen : March forward and engage Von Salza spearmen.

Reiters : Go for von Salza and his cavalry support and skirmish out of range of any counter-charge. If he should move out of range then targets are Heavy infantry and missile units in that order.

Zweihanders : Advance on the right of our spearmen line and prevent any flanking of that line. Keep in line with the spearmen

Hugo : I will follow in the wake of the spears, to plug any hole in our line or prevent flanking of our line left or right. I will charge any enemy charging on me.

Map:
https://img176.imageshack.us/my.php?...urn3allpm1.jpg

Mounted Crossbows: Advance and skirmish with von Salza's cavalry. Retreat if the enemy attempts to engage, even if that means falling back behind the spears.

Spears: Advance along with Hugo's spears in a solid line. Do not engage von Salza's men unless they engage us.

Pavise Crossbowmen: Follow behind the spears and fire at whatever presents the best target.

DFK: Advance behind the spears, then swing to the right and prepare to assault the exposed Imperial center. If the Imperials withdraw from the center before we arrive, do not follow and engage. If the Imperial center remains exposed, engage in flanking melee if possible.

Retinue & Cavalry: Remain behind Lothar and Hugo's spears, in a position to be able to give orders to the DFKs plus whoever else is nearest to the left.

Unfortunately I have to keep them simple and partly OOC this time.

All units: General advance. It's time to take the fight to the Imperials!

Spearmen: Move through Duke Arnold's dismounted knights and take the lead. If enemy cavalry threaten you then countercharge. Otherwise stay in guard mode.

Archers: Move a bit to the left flank and try to stay out of the way of Lothar's and the others troops flanking the "Kaiser". Move into loose formation and follow the advance. Once in range target mounted units first, especially Peter's, with regular arrows. If there are no other targets aim for any of their infantry about to enter melee with fire arrows to reduce their morale.

Cavalry: Stay with me as I move a bit towards the center left of our army. Avoid committing yourselves to battle unless you are needed to plug a gap or see a chance to rout a wavering unit.

(note: map was included in an additional PM. It was the same as the others I was sent by the Republicans.)

No orders from Warmaster Horus.

Umpire notes for Turn 3

Units failing orders test: Peter’s crossbows, Ruppel’s DFKs, Hugo’s Zweihanders (nullified – closest to general), Lothar’s mounted Xbows. No orders from Warmaster Horus, but since AG is Overall Commander and it falls under his responsibilities, I allowed him to give minor orders for Bernhard’s cavalry (complete with orders test, of course – it passed).

I put Hapsburg’s escort closer to his cavalry, since Ignoramus only has three divisions, and Hapsburg’s escort alone would count for one.

Interpreted Dutch_guy’s orders as if he was hanging back and counter-flanking. FH’s cavalry was trickier (see below). Decided that since deguerra was getting close but decidedly not charging, FH’s cav would remain inert this turn.

Engagements taking place this turn: Peter in the center vs. Jan and Arnold. Bohmen/Bernhard vs. Ruppel. Hugo attacking Peter’s west flank, Tancred attempting to counter-flank but being checked by Lothar.

Center in-depth:
Peter’s crossbows don’t fire, infantry on both sides advance. Jan’s spears take the fight to Peter’s dismounted IKs to the east. Gunners get in a couple of shots at Peter’s cav, then are charged by dismounted IKs to the west. They fall back and Arnold’s DFKs engage. Jan’s Balkan archers and Arnold’s Xbows concentrate their fire on Peter’s cav. To the west, Hugo’s cavalry slams into Peter’s western flank. Already being pushed to the limit by Arnold’s DFKs, the Kaiser’s men can’t take the extra blow. Removed one regiment of dismounted IKs to account for this. Peter’s cavalry countercharges and win easily. Removed Hugo’s heavy cav. Removed one unit of Imperial Knights to represent losses in the charge as well as attrition due to Republican archer fire.

East in-depth:
Bohmen’s men even out and advance. However, he does not give the explicit order to attack and the only units of Ruppel’s that are given that order are the DFKs (inactive this turn). Both sides are extremely close to each other, but neither takes the initiative (most of FH’s orders are only in response to if deguerra, esp. his cavalry, makes the first move. The only actual combat this turn is Ruppel’s mounted Xbows shooting at Bernhard’s cavalry (Teutonic Knights reduced to ½ strength to reflect this).

West in-depth:
General advance on both sides. Tancred’s archers move up past the spearmen but quickly retire as Hugo’s and Lothar’s move up. Tancred looks to counter-flank but cannot as he is engaged by Hugo’s spearmen and Lothar’s (despite TinCow’s orders of “don’t engage them unless they engage you”, I decided to make it a full line engagement due to Xbows being present and Hugo engaging to the right). Tancred’s cavalry does not attack (no express orders to). Pretty even combat, will be resolved next turn. Ranged skirmishes: Imperial Xbows target Lothar’s foot Xbows and remove them easily (removed 1 regiment from each – Imperial due to archer fire and some getting caught in the initial spear charge; Republican due to overwhelming archer fire). Republican Reiters skirmish the flank of Imperial FKs and drop ½ of them. Lothar’s DFKs slip through a gap to the right and are in a very good position to flank Peter’s infantry next turn.

Overall losses:
Imperialists: 1 unit each of mounted and dismounted IKs, ½ of Tancred’s FKs, 1 of Tancred’s pavise Xbows.
Republicans: Hugo’s heavy cav, Lothar’s pavise Xbows, ½ of Bohmen’s mounted knights.

Roll for Matthias (needs 4-6): gets a two.

Matthias will have a 67% chance of arriving Turn 5.

Public feedback for Turn 3

The killing started.

Edmund Becker isn't exactly sure how it began; all he knows is that one moment the Republicans were advancing and the next, both sides were charging at each other and beginning the melee.

In the center, it is an all-out slugfest between Kaiser Peter's Imperial Knights and various Republican forces, belonging to Duke Arnold, Jan Zirn, Hugo de Cervole, and Lothar Steffen. The Kaiser's men began marching up front, appearing to protect his crossbowmen which, oddly, weren't firing. Arnold, anticipating a cavalry charge, substituted his dismounted Feudal Knights for Jan Zirn's various spearmen. However, when it became clear that it would be an infantry fight, he recalled his gunners after they had only gotten a couple of shots off and put his DFKs back in the front. The match was even for a while, but then Becker noticed events happening to the west.

Athalwolf von Salza and Tancred von Tyrolia's men were advancing, although now it definitely appeared as if Tancred was in command. Perhaps the Kaiser didn't trust von Salza, loser of the Battle of the Flemish Crossroads, over one of his oldest friends? In any case, Tancred was advancing his men, but not fast enough to catch a fierce cavalry charge done by Hugo de Cervole's knights aimed at the Kaiser's flank. As the Imperialists feared, Hugo's charge did serious damage, wrecking one regiment of dismounted Imperial Knights before Peter and the rest of his cavalry countercharged, destroying the flankers.

Further to the west, a similar melee took place between the spearmen of Lothar Steffen and Hugo de Cervole and Tancred's infantry, who attempted to counter-flank but were checked. It was an even contest and would not be decided quickly, but there was a big enough between Tancred's and Peter's men for four regiments of Lothar's dismounted Feudal Knights to slip through, offering a far more serious threat to the Kaiser's flank. Peter's cavalry, spent after their last countercharge and suffering due to what seemed like every Republican missile firing at them, could not do anything until the next turn.

To the east, Becker notes, the forces, while extremely close to each other, have not yet begun engaging. Neither commander took the initiative to begin the attack, with Ehrhart Ruppel's DFKs strangely being left behind. Instead, most of the work that was done was beefing up the extreme flanks, as Bernhard Steffen moved up to provide a serious challenge to the Imperialists, and Maximilian Zirn reinforced Ruppel.

Becker turns his head and takes note of the various missile engagements taking place. Most notable is to the east, where two regiments of Ruppel's mounted crossbowmen have begun picking off Bernhard Steffen's Teutonic Knights. To the west, a long-range duel took place between Tancred's and Lothar's pavisemen. Tancred's had the numbers and thus the advantage, eliminating Lothar's men with one regiment casualties of their own, due to counter-fire and being caught by an initial spear charge. Hugo's Reiters, much like Ruppel's men on the other side of the battlefield, began skirmishing with Tancred's cavalry, dropping about half of Athalwolf's former Feudal Knights.

With most of the infantry either locked in or about to be locked in combat, Becker realizes that the reserves will most likely decide it. And right now, that definitely looks in the Imperialists' favor, with Maximilian von Hapsburg belatedly delaying to the west, Max Zirn still not engaged to the east, and, most frighteningly for the Republicans, Fritz von Kastilien to the center-east.

Matthias Steffen is nowhere to be found for the Republicans, but there is one event behind their lines that draws Becker's notice: A member of Arnold's retinue draws a massive red flag and begins waving it for the entire battlefield to see. Even from this distance, Becker can see the silver Illuminati logo of the all-seeing eye on it, as well as an inscription in Latin. As for what the inscription or even what the flag itself signifies, that's anyone's guess. Many of the soldiers, even the generals, have bigger problems to worry about. The critical moment may be approaching.

Map:

(note about the map: All units locked in combat do not have a colored line next to them and cannot be ordered around for Turn 4. Due to the central location of the melee, all divisions not engaged will be able to reach the fight the next turn, though Dieter, Hapsburg, and Fritz will arrive near the end of the turn.)

DEADLINE FOR TURN 4 ORDERS: April 3rd, 16:00 GMT-5.

[GeneralHankerchief]

Turn 3 feedback

Turn 3 feedback to the Imperialists

Feedback to Peter

The engagement has begun, although not exactly how you wanted it to. For some inexplicable reason, your crossbowmen did not fire, and you did not gain the missile advantage before the melee began. This was sorely felt, as the Republican archers targeted your cavalry throughout the turn.

Your foot knights are now locked in a death struggle with Arnold's and Jan Zirn's men, and it's not looking good for them. First, Hugo de Cervole's cavalry charged their flank and did serious damage before being countercharged by your own men, losing a regiment (due to the fight and the archers) in the process. Now, Lothar Steffen's best infantry has slipped through a hole and, if not dealt with, can make life even more miserable for your men.

To your relief, you notice that Fritz and Hapsburg have deployed and that Matthias has not. You now unquestionably hold the advantage in numbers and that can definitely make up for the fact that your own force could either be flanked and/or shot into oblivion.

Only two things bug you: Dieter Bresch did not move at all for this turn, and that giant red Illuminati flag over by Arnold. But enough about that, it's time to be Kaiser. It's time to lead your forces to victory forever.

Feedback to Ruppel

You are not pleased; your DFKs did not do as they were ordered and as a result they did not initiate the attack, thus making the entire flank stagnant.

Luckily, Ludwig von Bohmen appears to be holding back on the attack. Bad for him, no matter how many cavalry he may have. You seem to have the pleasure of being reinforced, first by Max Zirn and maybe later by Fritz. Zirn can reach your men this turn and Fritz can come up at the end and potentially do some damage.

It might be time to act... assuming your DFKs do as they're told.

Feedback to Tancred

Well, you tried to counter-flank, but Hugo and Lothar got in the way. Your infantry is now in an even duel with theirs, and the cavalry on the flanks are pretty even as well. You're a bit worried about Hugo's Reiters; they have already taken away half of Athalwolf's Feudal Knights and probably know that you are the commander of this wing by now.

You lost a regiment of crossbowmen due to them getting caught in the spears and an archery duel, but you've taken away Lothar's only foot archers as well. Perhaps your two regiments remaining will be enough to swing control of the wing in your favor? Surely you don't want a man like Hapsburg getting all the credit for victory on your wing.

Victory, however, might mean total destruction of your forces. There's one upside to that though: You'll become a general-in-waiting again. Spots are most certainly going to open up.

Feedback to Dieter

You order your forces to halt and watch as the melee begins, watch as your friend Peter countercharges Hugo de Cervole's cavalry to save his flank and your other friend Tancred take command of the western wing against Hugo and Lothar. Franconia is clearly giving its all in this battle. All of it, except for you.

The one advantage of holding back is that you will now be able to commit your force to where you believe it will be most advantageous. You had better commit it somewhere, however, otherwise Peter, no matter how much trouble he's in, will seriously be angry. Not to mention Fritz, who has shown up (timely as ever, of course) and has always despised your inaction.

Say, who's in charge of Franconia anyway?

Feedback to Max

You shift your men to the far east of the battlefield and place your spearmen on the extreme edge. They are now in position to intervene, one way or another.

To the south, you see it - the red flag. Now is the time to reveal your family's true heritage and legacy. Be careful, however, that your units do not turn on you when they hear of your plan.

Disobedience aside, you are in an excellent position to totally surprise Ehrhart Ruppel... provided he is already engaged.

Feedback to Hapsburg

You deploy your men, and not a moment too soon - a courier was coming from Peter ready to relieve you if you weren't up by the time he arrived.

You positioned yourself in the west, where Tancred von Tyrolia seems to be fighting Hugo de Cervole and Lothar Steffen to a standstill. If you hurry, your men can intervene and potentially decide the outcome of the engagement on that wing.

Perhaps this is the day that the Hapsburg name becomes widely known?

(OOC note: I put Hapsburg's escort with the other cavalry to keep divisions together.)

Feedback to Fritz

You and your massive army of mercenaries deploy to the center-east portion of the battlefield, ready to intervene pretty much wherever you choose, potentially this turn if you hurry.

However, that might not be the best option - Matthias Steffen has not arrived yet and his force is the only one large enough to singlehandedly give you trouble.

Whatever you decide, you can count on your intervention - or lack, thereof - to be decisive.

Turn 3 feedback to the Republicans

Feedback to Arnold

You wave the flag sufficiently. No doubt it now has everyone's attention on the battlefield. Let's hope that Max responds.

You start to worry about things a bit closer to home. Your knights and Jan's spearmen are locked in combat with the best infantry in the Reich, and although Peter's flank is being menaced first by Cervole and next by Lothar, it's still too early to tell who will come out ahead. Your Gothic Knights are waiting in reserve to swing things your way, but so is Dieter Bresch's entire army.

Your right flank is currently not being engaged, as it appears that neither Bohmen nor Ruppel took the initiative. Oh well, it's probably certain that you won't have to worry about that flank come next turn.

You are confident that you'll come out ahead, but it will still be a tough fight and Matthias is nowhere to be found. Prepare for a long grind before an Illuminati victory.

Feedback to Bohmen

Your men even out and advance, but do not attack. Neither do Ruppel's. You're not sure why, but nevertheless you are the only Advance Guard commander with a totally free contingent of infantry this turn.

Of course, your Pikemen must be up to the task, as they'll no doubt have to deal with Ruppel this upcoming turn, and probably Max Zirn and Fritz as well. Bernhard's cavalry will certainly help turn the tide, but he is being menaced by Ruppel's horse archers and hasn't really been much of an active commander.

You hope that fate will assist you this upcoming turn and that you will have a force to command by the end of it. There's only one way to find out.

Feedback to Hugo

Your cavalry, finally obeying orders, charges Peter's flank and ravages it, shattering one regiment of Imperial Knights before being mercilessly countercharged and destroyed by Peter's horsemen. Your Reiters, however, are still kicking, having ridded Tancred von Tyrolia (for he is commanding now, you realize) a decent portion of his cavalry.

The remainder of your forces are tied up; Your spears are locked in melee with Tancred's and both sides have a good chance of destroying each other. There is your escort and Lothar's cavalry, but there is also the threat of Maximilian von Hapsburg to deal with.

With the best of Lothar's infantry all but committed to the battle in the center, you hope that Arnold's little (large, actually) Illuminati flag will somehow turn the tide of the west flank to your favor.

Feedback to Lothar

Your spearmen get in an engagement with Tancred von Tyrolia's, but something good has come out of it. Namely, they helped savage a regiment of pavise crossbowmen that had foolishly moved to the front as you were advancing.

Your knights managed to get through the hole created and are in position to destroy Peter's infantry, but can now be attacked from a variety of directions. However, they are experienced and difficult to slay, and even if overwhelmed on all directions will still take a lot of enemy down with them.

Most disturbing is the fact that your mounted crossbowmen did nothing this turn, despite orders. You told them to target Athalwolf von Salza, although their inaction might have been for the best as it is clear he is not in command in the west.

You know you are getting some help in the east next turn, due to Arnold's flag, but your situation with Maximilian von Hapsburg coming up is not the ideal one.

Feedback to Jan

Your spearmen exhange places with Arnold's DFKs without a hitch. Just in time, too, as they are quickly dragged into an engagement with Peter's dismounted Imperial Knights.

Pretty much all you can do is watch and tell your archers to keep firing. Should Peter's men break through your lines, you are always waiting to countercharge, however. One way or another, you definitely got your share of action.

In the meantime, all you can do is wait and wonder what the heck that red Illuminati flag is for.

(note: Forgot to send feedback to Warmaster Horus. Since he hasn’t been active for a week, wasn’t too worried.)

Orders

Imperialist orders

Peter and his cavalry will countercharge the overlapping DFKs to his southwest. His pavise crossbowmen will fire deep into the Republican formation at Arnold and the Gothic Knights.

Fritz, Max Zirn, and Ehrhart Ruppel shall exploit the open eastern flank for all it's worth.

Dieter shall move up behind the center infantry to relieve them as they perish.

Max Hapsburg will advance in support of Athalwolf and Tancred.

Hi GH,

Orders as per my diagram here:
https://img382.imageshack.us/img382/...benanntde8.jpg

Let me know if anything is unclear or otherwise.

Cavalry to retreat and recharge if pikes engage them.

I will be sending von salza and what's left of the FK over to my left, to engage the enemy DFKs currently in the process of flanking Peter's forces. Von salza will be engaging the second from the left DFK regiment, and the FK will be charging in the rear of the regiment on the utmost left. My crossbows will be targeting the reiters, but in the case of a Zweihander charge on von Salza (I'm expecting the zweihanders will be used this way)the crossbows will switch targets to the latter (the enemy zweihanders).

In the event of such a charge, von Salza and the FK will make a run for my position, and await further instructions there. I'm assuming the friendly forces in my rear will have advanced far enough to provide assistance in the case of an enemy attack (mainly a potential flanking manoeuvre) and will be able to provide assistance when needed. As even a flanking manoeuvre on my left (where the enemy have sent their 4 regiments of DFK) could form a real threat when they engage Peter's troops in their backs. Or potentially come gunning for my troops currently locked in combat (for which those Zweihanders are suited perfectly).

Hope that was clear enough, if not, don't hesitate to ask.

GH,

My orders are submitted by the recommendations below they are in bold. The extra spearmen will support the other spearmen rushing into the engagement they will prepare for any counter charge.
Just realized the time of day.
NN

Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 

***REMOVED***

With that in mind I suggest that you tell Ruppel (Tell him late, close to the deadline, so there's no time for him to argue) you're ordering your Forlorn Hope to march double time past his position to aid the attack against the pikemen. Have the FH march quickly very close to him, and then try to launch a surprise charge with them from both sides. That is to be the first act that reveals your true loyalty. As soon as his guardsmen are engaged, at least one company of spearmen should rush to support that attack while your guardsmen and your Crusader Knights line up and launch repeated charges against his DFKs.

After the action starts I suggest your own foot crossbowmen attack his mounted ones at range to keep them occupied. Be sure to include orders for a secondary target (Spearmen facing the pikes?) for those men in the event that the mounted crossbowmen are engaged at close range by Republican cavalry.

Division 1, Fritz's HQ, is to maintain it's relative position with respect to the larger infantry formation. This will involve a 45 degree wheel to the right and a possible advance. He should only be committed to battle if the infantry formation's center is broken open completely.

Division 2, the infantry screen, is to immediately execute a 45 degree wheel to the right, in the direction of Duke Dieter's troops. The infantry's advance is conditional upon Duke Dieter's own advance. If during the wheel movement the Duke fails to advance, the infantry should complete the wheel and hold ground until the Duke moves forward. If the Duke moves forward the formation should also advance with the end goal of bringing the gunners into range of the main engagement at the center. In specific the advance should continue until the Republican armoured sergeants at the center of the field are in range to take fire from the gunners, though higher priority is given to keeping Duke Dieter's men from falling behind our own flank. Coordination with the gunners is essential to holding the formation. Standing orders as to the response to various attacks are unchanged.

Division 3, the gunners, are first and most importantly to maintain their relative position with respect to the infantry formation; this will involve wheeling to the right 45 degrees immediately. They should watch Duke Dieter's men closely during this movement, and if the Duke is advancing the men should advance as well. The advance should continue, dependent upon Dieter's own advance, until the gunners have the range to fire on the Republican armoured sergeants at the center of the engagement. The men are ordered to hold fire under all circumstances, however, and should not take even ranging shots. Standing orders as to the response to various forms of attack are unchanged.

Division 4, the crossbowmen, are ordered to take a position directly behind Duke Dieter's HQ. If the Duke advances, they should advance. If he fails to advance, they should remain where they are and be watchful against an attack. If attacked the mercenary crossbowmen should attempt to fall back to the right wing of the infantry formation in haste while the Pavise crossbowmen hold and await support from cavalry.

Division 5, the Teutons, are ordered to advance at a walk to the position which is currently held by Count Ruppel's Dismounted Feudal Knights. They are to avoid engagement at all costs, and are not permitted to involve themselves in any struggle along their path. If they should come under missile or melee attack they are ordered to retreat to the left wing of the main infantry formation, there to reset their lines and attempt their march again.

Division 6, the unpaired Merc Knights, are ordered to advance to the position currently held by Count Max Zirn's crossbowmen and to take up station to their immediate west. They are strictly ordered not to involve themselves in any fighting along their path or at their destination. Further orders will follow soon. Losses due to ranged fire must be borne, any attempt to engage them in close quarters fighting should see them retreat as necessary to avoid it.

Division 7, the paired Mercenary knights, are ordered to take a position on the western side of the crossbowmen they are currently behind. If Duke Dieter advances they should advance as well.

No orders from Ignoramus and Elite Ferret (gibson, in his role as Overall Commander, gave skeleton orders for both armies and those orders will be implemented in stead).

Republican orders

Overall Orders to ALL Republican Army Commanders and GH:

LEFT FLANK:

Hugo!! Exploit the gap and get those 2-Handers on the flank of your Spear Division...roll up that DFK Div as fast as possible.

Flank all your skirmishers wider and target von Salza and his Cav Division. Make sure they don't get caught by Hapsburg coming in from behind.

Keep yourself in reserve to plug and gap in the Spear line.

Lothar!! Your entire DFK Div is through. Have half hit Peter and the other half hit von Salza/Tancred.

As for your Cav division: You can either hold and pour through the gap next turn or flank left and hammer von Salza, Tancred and those Xbows. It's up to you.

CENTRE:

JAN: Hold Hold Hold. Use your Cav Division to plug any gap with a decisive charge. Have your Bow Div attack those Xbow's behind the front line.

ARNOLD: Holding the line with the DFK Div:

Gunners to target Peter's Cavalry, Xbow Div, to do the same.

Gothics to check both Centre and Right flank for support opportunities.

RIGHT FLANK: GENTLEMEN YOU MUST do this:

Luwdig, get those 2-Hander on the flank of those Spearmen:

Then I want you AND BERNHARD to mass charge Ruppel, his Cav Div and those DFK's behind him...do not concern yourself with anything else at the moment!! Kill him and his force this turn!!

***As the orders go out and you read the hurried scrawl of the Dread Duke at each of your body guard regiments your respective retinue gasp as another massive flag, BLACK this time, is raised over the position of Arnold, NOW there are two massive flags constantly being waved in long arcs from side to side in the breeze. In the centre of the black flag is the now familiar Silver Latin writing of the Illuminati All Seeing Eye and script in the centre .***

GH, the RED and BLACK flags will be waved constantly until I say otherwise.

----------------
Arnold specific:

DFK Div: Hit those DIK and Spearmen hard with Lothars supporting divisions. I want them gone.

Gothic Div: Keep you eye peeled to the Centre and Right...if there are gaps appearing then charge in for maximum effect.

Xbow Div: Fire at targets available in the following order; Cav, Heavy Inf; Missile

Gunner Div: Fire at targets available in the following order; Cav, Heavy Inf; Missile.

Bernhard specific:

Cav Div: Fan out in a line and hit Ruppel in support of Ludwigs Cav Div...I want Ruppel, his Cav Div and and DFK to feel the mass charge of our best Division. If you can withdraw and rechrage due to local superiority of numbers then do so for maxium effect.

Map:

https://img364.imageshack.us/my.php?...urn3allwb9.jpg

Ok, am keeping it simple:

Infantry:
the pikemen are to engage the spearmen.
the zweihänders flank the the spearmen from the right as shown.

Cavalry:
the cavalry is to charge at Ruppels own cavalry division. They are to charge, then fall back and charge again and again..When one regiment is engaged the other can retreat and then swap. Ignore all else on the Right flank until Ruppel is no longer and effective fighting force.

If Ludwig dies in this, its been a blast, and thanks for letting us go out on a bang.

Map:

https://img364.imageshack.us/my.php?...urn3allwb9.jpg

Hugo's orders for turn 4 :

https://img364.imageshack.us/my.php?...urn3allwb9.jpg

Spears : Maintain engagement with the opposing forces. Keeping them at bay without inflicting many casualties is acceptable, if it also reduces our own casualties.

Zweihanders : Flank von Salza's DFK on their left, roll up as many as you can.

Reiters : Keep on skirmishing on the opposing cavalry.

Hugo : Behind the middle of the spear line to be able to charge in any gap created in the line. If such a thing occurs then charge and retreat as soon as contact is made, and repeat as many times as necessary.

https://img364.imageshack.us/my.php?...urn3allwb9.jpg

DFKs: 2 southern units attack Peter's DIKs from the flank and rear. 2 northern units attack von Salza/Tyrolia's DFKs from the rear.

Spears: Hold the line against the enemy. Keeping them at bay without inflicting many casualties is acceptable, if it also reduces our own casualties.

Mounted Crossbows: Fire on the best available targets of opportunity, though give preference to cavalry. Advance if needed to achieve this, but skirmish away if the enemy closes to attack.

Retinue & Knights: Remain in place so as to be able to charge through the gap in the lines next turn. If the enemy attempts to plug the gap and are not stopped by the infantry, charge that enemy.

Sorry this came in so close to the deadline.

Spears: Hold position. Guard mode.

Archers: Loose formation, fire at Imperial crossbowmen.

Cavalry: Charge to plug any gaps in the line.

(note: same map as the rest of the Republicans was sent along)

Umpire notes for Turn 4

Naturally, the biggest event of this turn was Maximilian Zirn switching sides. I implemented an enhanced orders test for all non-mercenary, non-Forlorn Hope units that are defecting:

Roll 3-6, all non-Mercenary, non-Forlorn Hope units obey.
Roll 2, units remain inactive.
Roll 1, I roll again (you don't want a 1 to come up).

Second roll:

Roll 4-6, units remain inactive.
Roll 2-3, units desert and I remove them from the map immediately.
Roll 1, the units turn on you and attack.

Units failing orders test: Ruppel’s mounted Xbows, one of Max’s AS (second roll: 2 – deserted), Arnold’s gunners, Hugo’s Reiters.

FH tried to get one of Peter’s dismounted IKs to the east to help attack the pikemen – did not allow this as they weren’t his troops (just recommendations), gibson said nothing, and the men in question were already locked in combat!

Engagements taking place this turn: Conclusion of western battle, part I. Conclusion of central battle, part I. Eastern battle. Since neither Ferret or Ignoramus submitted orders, I made the executive decision to not directly involve them in combat this turn (in-character, they did not “push” their men enough). They will be in position to attack next turn.

Center in-depth:
Two of Lothar’s DFKs plunge into the flank and wrap around the rear of Peter’s dismounted IKs (both Peter’s and Athalwolf’s cavalry went for the two regiments of DFK that attacked Tancred). Simulated both sides: as Republicans, flank was decisive and Republicans won big. As Imperialists, pretty much the same result, albeit with a few more casualties. Removed 2 dismounted IKs and 2 AS for Imperialists, 1 of Arnold’s DFKs for Republicans. On the right, Peter’s dismounted IKs faced off against Jan Zirn’s spearmen. As Republicans and Imperialists the spearmen were easily dispatched. Removed 2 AS and 2 Crusader Sergeants for Republicans and 1 unit of dismounted IKs due to attrition. In missile combat, Peter’s Xbows targeted Arnold’s BG and his DGKs, semi-effectively. Reduced one unit of DGKs to ½ strength. Arnold’s Xbows targeted Peter’s cav (considered in the western battle for this turn).

West in-depth:
Combat between Lothar/Hugo’s and Tancred’s infantry continue. Tancred dispatches von Salza’s cavalry to attack two northernmost of Lothar’s DFKs, which conveniently aim for the back of Tancred’s infantry. Peter’s cavalry does the same, two units of DFKs are sandwiched and destroyed before they can reach their target. Peter and cav retire back to the center, with Arnold’s missiles still fixed on his position. He loses another regiment due to missile fire and the charge. Back to infantry, the Zweihanders begin flanking the Imperial line. Dutch seemed to want Ignoramus to respond, but there was ambiguity (since Ignoramus wouldn’t intervene this turn). Decided to roll. 1-3 his cavalry does nothing, 4-6 they countercharge. Rolled a 3. In combat simulation for both sides it was essentially a draw, with the flanking Zweihanders barely allowing Lothar’s spears to not get completely overwhelmed by Tancred’s DFKs. Removed 6 Republican AS and their Zweihanders (they got wrecked, too). For the Imperialists, removed 3 AS and 3 DFKs. A bloody draw. In missile combat, Lothar’s mounted Xbows removed the remainder of the mounted FKs and Tancred’s foot Xbows decimated the unresponsive Reiters. Removed the FKs and Reiters.

East in-depth:
My God, this was a difficult one to simulate. First thing I did was remove one of Max Zirn’s AS (desertion). Pikemen begin engaging Ruppel’s AS before they can get to Bohmen’s cavalry as ordered. Despite Ruppel using a shallow formation, Bohmen has a two-regiment advantage and the one pike regiment plus the Zweihanders begin flanking. They get the advantage, but just as they’re about to finish up, Ruppel’s DFKs come in and counter-flank them. As far as cavalry goes, Ruppel and Bohmen/Bernhard charge each other (Bernhard was done under basic orders from Overall Commander AG to charge). Ruppel seems to be holding his own against superior numbers for a while. Simulated both sides. As Imperialists, managed to kill Bernhard Steffen. As Republicans, he survived. Decided to roll. 5-6 he lives, 3-4 he gets injured (not captured, read on), 1-2 he dies. Rolled a 2. Bye-bye Bernhard. Then Max Zirn comes in. His 2 FH units and 1 AS totally surround Ruppel with the rest of the Republican cavalry. Simulated both sides. Nobody got out alive in either simulation. Ruppel died. Max’s cavalry hit the counter-flanking DFKs repeatedly and destroyed them. This left the archers. Max’s Xbows hit Ruppel’s inactive mounted Xbows. Destroyed one regiment. The other one routed due to the death of their commander. Total losses: For the Republicans, all four Flemish Pikemen, the Zweihanders, Merchant Cav Militia, Bernhard Steffen, Teutonic Knights, 1 AS, 1 Forlorn Hope, Crusader Knights (1/2). For the Imperialists, 3 AS, 2 DFKs, 2 FKs, 2 mounted Xbows, Ehrhart Ruppel.

Roll for Matthias (needs 3-6): gets a five! *sees OverKnight mumble “finally” under his breath*

Matthias will be able to deploy on Turn 5.

Public feedback for Turn 4

One particular shade has dominated the battlefield: Red. It rules in the air as Duke Arnold's Illuminati standard billows mightily in the wind, easily outclassing every other flag on the battlefield. It rules on the ground, particularly on the main lines, as the field slowly becomes a puddle of blood with every death.

The initial engagements have been decided, Becker notes.

To the west, the armies of Lothar Steffen, Hugo de Cervole, and Tancred von Tyrolia have fought each other to a bloody standstill. The second half of this line was marked with Republican attempts to gain the advantage by pushing on the flanks. The first attempt was two of Duke Lothar Steffen's Dismounted Feudal Knights, having freshly made their way through a gap, try to collapse on Tancred's line from the rear. However, this attempt was doomed, as the knights were charged first by Peter von Kastilien's cavalry and then Athalwolf von Salza's. The foot soldiers were sandwiched and obliterated before they could cause any damage.

The second attempt was more subtle, and yet still saved the day for the Republicans. Hugo de Cervole ordered his Zweihanders to simply flank the eastern portion of Tancred's line, hitting through the gap. It was just enough to distract Tancred's dismounted knights from killing Hugo's spearmen, and although the end result was all armies being fought out, that one flanking maneuver prevented Tancred gaining the edge. However, the Imperialists do seem to have triumphed on this wing of the battlefield, as Maximilian von Hapsburg is up with fresh troops. Hugo is a general without an army; all of his regiments have been wiped out, whether in the infantry melee or by Tancred's crossbowmen targeting his strangely inactive Reiters. In addition, Lothar has lost most of his infantry, the remainders probably having to be committed to the central battle and his cavalry all but useless against Hapsburg's spears.

Becker shifts his attention to the central battle. Parts of that battle are shifting multiple ways. To the west, the other two of Lothar's Dismounted Feudal Knights, unchecked since Peter had decided to go for the others, wrapped around the Kaiser's infantry, annihilating it. To the east, there was no such flanking maneuver. As a result, Peter's dismounted Imperial Knights prevailed, destroying Jan Zirn's spearmen. It seems like the most elite dismounted knights in the Reich, those belonging to the oldest of enemies: Lothar, Arnold, and Peter, will fight against each other, and soon. But the Republicans have other things to worry about. Their guns did not, oddly, fire this turn, allowing the Imperial archers to ravage Arnold's Dismounted Knights, reducing one regiment to half strength. Arnold's archers got their revenge, continuing to menace Peter's cavalry and dropping the equivalent of another regiment. But, once again, things look for the Imperialists. Dieter Bresch is up, bringing with him knights, spearmen, and over 350 crossbowmen. In addition, Fritz von Kastilien could hit potentially anywhere.

However, the battle is by no means over. The truly startling series of events occurred in the east, which brought about a bloodbath even deadlier than those to the west. Ludwig von Bohmen's Pikemen finally took the initiative and attacked Ehrhart Ruppel's spearmen before they could get to Bohmen's cavalry. The numerical advantage of the Republican infantry quickly allowed them to flank Ruppel's sergeants. However, just as they were finishing up, Ruppel's dismounted Feudal Knights came charging in and counter-flanked, ensuring the fight would go on.

Even farther east of that, a desperate, frenzied cavalry battle took place as all of the horsemen loaded up on that flank finally attacked. The cavalry under Ruppel, Bohmen, and Bernhard Steffen, including each one of their personal escorts, all charged. Despite the numerical disadvantage, Ruppel's men seemed to be more than holding their own, bringing down a few regiments and Bernhard Steffen himself as complex, elegant tactics were used by all sides.

Then the blow came.

The men of Maximilian Zirn, son of Karl, brother of Jan, charged in...

...right at Ruppel.

The Swabian Count was taken completely by surprise by this trickery. In one of his last thoughts, he realized what the red Illuminati flag meant. Max Zirn was always one of them. Completely surrounded, realizing his fate, Ruppel tried to simply kill as many of Max's infantry as he could. A regiment of Forlorn Hope perished in this desperate fight, but in the end the outcome was inevitable. The Imperialists lost a great commander in the east.

Not just a commander, but an entire army. Naturally, the cavalry were utterly annihilated, but Ruppel's dismounted Knights, while still fighting, were charged and destroyed by Zirn's cavalry, and his mounted crossbowmen, inactive, simply watched and got shot by Zirn's foot archers, some dying, some routing.

Becker watched all of this in amazement. The Illuminati always had something up their sleeve. They had won a great victory in the east, but there were still a lot more enemies to kill. The Republicans were still falling, Matthias Steffen was still nowhere in sight, and the Imperialists still had two fresh armies. There is definitely still something to watch, Becker realizes.

He continues to watch the remainder of the initial fighting, but cannot as his attention is diverted to something else: Another massive flag being raised by Arnold's escort; this one even larger than the red one, and black as night, with the silver all-seeing eye present.

Map:

DEADLINE FOR TURN 5 ORDERS: April 5th, 18:00 GMT-5. I'll be out that night and might not be able to implement orders until the morning, but I still want them all in by the above deadline.