tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-76551021697959536482024-03-08T21:34:48.851+00:00Vagabond's Wargaming BlogVagabondhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14031648950206231742noreply@blogger.comBlogger121125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7655102169795953648.post-5280734498398170832024-02-18T20:17:00.002+00:002024-02-18T20:17:45.352+00:00Looters in Greater SnoringLooters in Greater Snoring<div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLgkitu9lRO9U5Vr9aiZ2pEAjfKhjiB7oQ_IGAaQb-GgW5VUxny-lE1kB7w5jGA7uJd63PN85sgnfqOMpP9yp-rq7OVkcaOlQ8cXAEaKawgUqxAjw4YO38CS7xBYdaKmLx7rmLPt0NtU6sdcogypPhLbLx587_BaKXmtWBPIqCNbSIqNJoyIWvVyDPj3yU/s700/01%20800%20P1510420.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="467" data-original-width="700" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLgkitu9lRO9U5Vr9aiZ2pEAjfKhjiB7oQ_IGAaQb-GgW5VUxny-lE1kB7w5jGA7uJd63PN85sgnfqOMpP9yp-rq7OVkcaOlQ8cXAEaKawgUqxAjw4YO38CS7xBYdaKmLx7rmLPt0NtU6sdcogypPhLbLx587_BaKXmtWBPIqCNbSIqNJoyIWvVyDPj3yU/w640-h426/01%20800%20P1510420.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>In the small sleepy town of Greater Snoring under t’Hill voices are raised and the shrill scraping of steel on steel can be heard. Not by the towns folk for they have long fled, but by the local garrison from the Manor by t’Hill.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZDa1vXx2yRG81zwhsOnANljCZRS1Cb_ePDyy_BZsqCv12IlyGfZOT__Xix67oZIp-lJDqBzVfuUTR0ESs4CHqHA3qaRrE9eybFYlfsClZ-2VVANGtx5QZue8EUc9hdkY056ng-fsbynbGzjgowGAEcaSMfX1k4rHfIrBy0yWPKf_Z-QrIh4V0zwiaig6L/s700/02%20800%20P1510433.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="525" data-original-width="700" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZDa1vXx2yRG81zwhsOnANljCZRS1Cb_ePDyy_BZsqCv12IlyGfZOT__Xix67oZIp-lJDqBzVfuUTR0ESs4CHqHA3qaRrE9eybFYlfsClZ-2VVANGtx5QZue8EUc9hdkY056ng-fsbynbGzjgowGAEcaSMfX1k4rHfIrBy0yWPKf_Z-QrIh4V0zwiaig6L/w640-h480/02%20800%20P1510433.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>The town square hasn’t seen so much activity since the start of the war.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0ceyJJmLVkXQZnsf2QJQigZTDNcOBZPNdZDZpYjR4Wtesfy0ewb9WhIHhehJL9TaQDVjC6ZJ9eU4bQ_4Rixjd4YQFhIfl5fyQfJr6xB0BC67rCF6q8q2MZLfiNaBTd0eUImLdx1Tye6Dxd8GTUoGLGKPi_nXhkCaZJsnm5iKEzkulfo7a5d4iuirb5g4c/s700/03%20800%20P1510421.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="525" data-original-width="700" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0ceyJJmLVkXQZnsf2QJQigZTDNcOBZPNdZDZpYjR4Wtesfy0ewb9WhIHhehJL9TaQDVjC6ZJ9eU4bQ_4Rixjd4YQFhIfl5fyQfJr6xB0BC67rCF6q8q2MZLfiNaBTd0eUImLdx1Tye6Dxd8GTUoGLGKPi_nXhkCaZJsnm5iKEzkulfo7a5d4iuirb5g4c/w640-h480/03%20800%20P1510421.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>The Reverend Jeremiah Blackstock has decided to take a rest from his self-imposed task of Witch Finder and strike a blow for Parliament by liberating goods and chattels from the evil spawn that support the Kings cause in Greater Snoring.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmHezlO4SsQUICuIbzONKw016yQISY-FMMtW93rUzVfbXYDkHusdRiS0UXx9zbtiDxwbD5GVkpAuDK6cchN4G6gEdpu6qbS6yH2ub-uTSd5tJrk26oHpL0fI7RzLD3muzrOvH-AVwGdeyLKRyBynpIEr-Pi-UgqMcIc0fQvP6rddDQ9VAd1UaR8Gtq9a4C/s700/04%20800%20P1510423.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="506" data-original-width="700" height="462" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmHezlO4SsQUICuIbzONKw016yQISY-FMMtW93rUzVfbXYDkHusdRiS0UXx9zbtiDxwbD5GVkpAuDK6cchN4G6gEdpu6qbS6yH2ub-uTSd5tJrk26oHpL0fI7RzLD3muzrOvH-AVwGdeyLKRyBynpIEr-Pi-UgqMcIc0fQvP6rddDQ9VAd1UaR8Gtq9a4C/w640-h462/04%20800%20P1510423.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Two of his stoutest followers wave their Bible and Pamphlets in support of the advance guard. They are prepared to use cold steel to emphasise their support but would prefer to be employed in Witch Finding, it’s a much safer occupation.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgV8HBzmEutP2pwnw1xluHZoG2_j2cqdJyuUSnyXHlteKN0_aZ25SMjDKc82Q4h4AahOmcbReHc1my-Rkt7rAkXR2Vph8c1Y2kRatGd8H5esbpvzUNGU-AONsdbuQ7_75jMwGyBatjjee2o0O-kqKk56_ZpoR3SZJXD3DheJH_KDz_P7EiG0HUWBJRbwq4H/s700/05%20800%20P1510439.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="700" height="438" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgV8HBzmEutP2pwnw1xluHZoG2_j2cqdJyuUSnyXHlteKN0_aZ25SMjDKc82Q4h4AahOmcbReHc1my-Rkt7rAkXR2Vph8c1Y2kRatGd8H5esbpvzUNGU-AONsdbuQ7_75jMwGyBatjjee2o0O-kqKk56_ZpoR3SZJXD3DheJH_KDz_P7EiG0HUWBJRbwq4H/w640-h438/05%20800%20P1510439.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Especially when they see a small but stout band of tough looking fighters headed their way. The dashing officer is leading his men from the front, an unusual sight and one full of obvious menace; he must know his men are dependable and will follow him into the coming fight.</div><div><br /></div><div>All for 1 and 1 for all.</div><div><br /></div><div>Maybe it’s time for the Reverend to hurry the looters/liberators and get the goods onto the cart and out of town while he still can.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-JIyMgZKStL84OcgGGWfpd9Tv602i2GICRUAdmwfaoGwMBQF9HFroHcukci3AF1Ut1-mWMRLm33Zuvfu7N3J5QMgFHlS_cTUXyJXe_fAijH14uoAQif4H0LUt5gW198dCw1CmOaiQir7Kww8CTdc6ZYbI9nIZpJ0q3X5JwTQhCA4zy9AhKoW8GY2plw3r/s700/06%20800%20P1510418.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="398" data-original-width="700" height="364" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-JIyMgZKStL84OcgGGWfpd9Tv602i2GICRUAdmwfaoGwMBQF9HFroHcukci3AF1Ut1-mWMRLm33Zuvfu7N3J5QMgFHlS_cTUXyJXe_fAijH14uoAQif4H0LUt5gW198dCw1CmOaiQir7Kww8CTdc6ZYbI9nIZpJ0q3X5JwTQhCA4zy9AhKoW8GY2plw3r/w640-h364/06%20800%20P1510418.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>A final view of Greater Snoring before blood is spilled and men die.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilvk2vWPB59kGTtJeyj-s6eNYSGX7Z9DyV-aPyrVjC9z-Nt5bo0zQ9PXUz3SwklYyd5GJDss-sVyyJS7ceWChrUkaaII_eV2Zj_Iv7z_CtEpm3EHUAFoOzhWGLqbojLY9YWc7crCeI7U7OGrTaLJwWsXg8qk1HFU5usosqKcrc0JpjSVOFo8kx67NOldb_/s700/07%20P1510440.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="482" data-original-width="700" height="440" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilvk2vWPB59kGTtJeyj-s6eNYSGX7Z9DyV-aPyrVjC9z-Nt5bo0zQ9PXUz3SwklYyd5GJDss-sVyyJS7ceWChrUkaaII_eV2Zj_Iv7z_CtEpm3EHUAFoOzhWGLqbojLY9YWc7crCeI7U7OGrTaLJwWsXg8qk1HFU5usosqKcrc0JpjSVOFo8kx67NOldb_/w640-h440/07%20P1510440.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div>Johnathan Harker shouted “Give them fire men and then follow me” At close range three pistols spat flames and bullets, the men were veterans of many a fight, wolves amongst sheep, and they made full use of their advantage.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNdOykKTCCzSFEtdaZpQ9Z3CynbeMxJqjrIAYq8m07mx-0SgrGuCeXXEG808aeSoI8m0bcmhdV-_F1u8qyPyBAZHwoHb3s_IvSHWF7pUqJkFVQ-wIDFm4sIMolSht-i-cZVS1nItylSYfcieGACqjh_4XmPK_FhgwSxMhL6b6fl8qHBRydyrEqQ3__I8rU/s700/08%20P1510442.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="455" data-original-width="700" height="416" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNdOykKTCCzSFEtdaZpQ9Z3CynbeMxJqjrIAYq8m07mx-0SgrGuCeXXEG808aeSoI8m0bcmhdV-_F1u8qyPyBAZHwoHb3s_IvSHWF7pUqJkFVQ-wIDFm4sIMolSht-i-cZVS1nItylSYfcieGACqjh_4XmPK_FhgwSxMhL6b6fl8qHBRydyrEqQ3__I8rU/w640-h416/08%20P1510442.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div>They shot the officer in the right leg, it was only a light wound but the impact of the ball stunned him momentarily. Not so the man waving his bible, the ball hit him high in the right arm, he dropped his sword before falling to the ground so badly wounded that for all intents and purposes he was out of the fight.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivCTPBIKO7nuNkv0AbZAiAFlQNExUhZiFIFRk4zpxOSb8skjfTjl9f9ALbyE1QWsnK97gnueOwmiFwfqoxpBg5P-7nbLQ9ClL07QpASJWhZWB1jQPR72yRxX0Eap-B7L00XkkTYpPJHvMytkK-OblaNJM_HbYHFzkrsd3czZSrFx-54ebmn_Cx8I2_4oSM/s700/09%20P1510443.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="495" data-original-width="700" height="452" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivCTPBIKO7nuNkv0AbZAiAFlQNExUhZiFIFRk4zpxOSb8skjfTjl9f9ALbyE1QWsnK97gnueOwmiFwfqoxpBg5P-7nbLQ9ClL07QpASJWhZWB1jQPR72yRxX0Eap-B7L00XkkTYpPJHvMytkK-OblaNJM_HbYHFzkrsd3czZSrFx-54ebmn_Cx8I2_4oSM/w640-h452/09%20P1510443.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div>Harker didn’t need to encourage his remaining wolves, the ones without a pistol, they loped forwards through the smoke. The wounded enemy officer lost his nerve, he would have run but his leg let him down. ‘Quarter’ he shouted and threw down his sword, it was a close call but his surrender was accepted.</div><div><br /></div><div>To his right the fight was short and sharp. Wielding his mortuary sword like a hammer the Royalist beat down the defence of his opponent, pushing him back and then following up with a wicked disabling blow that put his man down. It could have gone differently if the musketeer behind could have fired but he was too slow to raise his weapon, it was all over in a split second, and there were three men down.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWljF1v3MSJS6jaCotdoKFi32rSwurOtSJXi6doDqTk-cV9FyBBC0lgquXExQ2FNb0SgSR_JhoV2I4F9ZjO3QM9FD-xV1gic1z_RWmRVdI1JGtq_-xXEoc6g4A1Gg27F6bb3bmx7JmmNRbs-I1obUU8MOZhLaC5qRPn2-KLz-cDPxjc3lzPPbtkIpGv4_M/s700/10%20P1510445%20.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="438" data-original-width="700" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWljF1v3MSJS6jaCotdoKFi32rSwurOtSJXi6doDqTk-cV9FyBBC0lgquXExQ2FNb0SgSR_JhoV2I4F9ZjO3QM9FD-xV1gic1z_RWmRVdI1JGtq_-xXEoc6g4A1Gg27F6bb3bmx7JmmNRbs-I1obUU8MOZhLaC5qRPn2-KLz-cDPxjc3lzPPbtkIpGv4_M/w640-h400/10%20P1510445%20.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div>The Musketeer pulled back to cover behind the well but his companion with the blunderbuss ran like a hare.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKD4X6HHB3vm9HsZfgJ-O3g5CefEIUSjKyhB4lxZAViWlnN0WUXncq-JR_tTLOkLv7bMLK29Ip7RhlLcVDGoCuTTirkiAI2T1SLy-HzEiF4br-eZVx01HdqP7s2kJcLRNs2bh-3zWjnvNBg0myThBeBPFkgH8sVz0eho1dEEJh9o0DsiVjLqXXJEtxwSpv/s700/11%20P1510448.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="525" data-original-width="700" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKD4X6HHB3vm9HsZfgJ-O3g5CefEIUSjKyhB4lxZAViWlnN0WUXncq-JR_tTLOkLv7bMLK29Ip7RhlLcVDGoCuTTirkiAI2T1SLy-HzEiF4br-eZVx01HdqP7s2kJcLRNs2bh-3zWjnvNBg0myThBeBPFkgH8sVz0eho1dEEJh9o0DsiVjLqXXJEtxwSpv/w640-h480/11%20P1510448.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div>The pistoleros moved forward to join the Mortuary Men and Harker made the decision to attack the enemy without reloading first. Sweep them away before they could re-group, he’s a bold leader and not averse to taking risks.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtIp9rezwH1UcIHWwRQT60pLflnrXm1zEe5dCl1NFdX3tDA9_iUtkCZBk3pxlpFJhPQx-C9XPZHJEYVYOHq42jZRp4esAV9A_N5HUz63VMbLvJ8myx3nZIoJdOpfHoAcO_FwaZg6EsmdU87X5pzxmKWemYAe7k4_VGRC3mJjHMhKQ1LozNsbRcd6CLqdDf/s700/12%20P1510446.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="509" data-original-width="700" height="466" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtIp9rezwH1UcIHWwRQT60pLflnrXm1zEe5dCl1NFdX3tDA9_iUtkCZBk3pxlpFJhPQx-C9XPZHJEYVYOHq42jZRp4esAV9A_N5HUz63VMbLvJ8myx3nZIoJdOpfHoAcO_FwaZg6EsmdU87X5pzxmKWemYAe7k4_VGRC3mJjHMhKQ1LozNsbRcd6CLqdDf/w640-h466/12%20P1510446.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div>However Reverend Jeremiah Blackstock, had rallied his group of men and quickly assessed the situation. He was now outnumbered, with 3 men down 1 runner and another shaken and falling back. Better to take the loot in hand and retire quickly rather than face Hawker’s wolves and take more casualties. ‘With me men’, he called before turning away and running as if the devil was snapping at his heals.</div><div><br /></div><div>He wouldn’t forget this action in a hurry and as they ran he thought again of witch hunting, it was far more lucrative and much more enjoyable.<br /></div><div><br /></div><div>A short sharp game, mainly because I've just painted these rascals and spent what is for me, an inordinate amount of money on the Conflix buildings so wanted to see them out on the table. I have 40 figures in total, all fighting men and want to get about 20 or so civilians.</div><div><br /></div><div>In the past I did a few games of witch finding and monster hunting with some older figures and that's what these are for, although there will be plenty of local raiding and fighting for them to undertake. I've just been re-watching the BBC's Three Musketeers and was immensely impressed with the scenery, in town and village, so there may well be games set in France as well, using the Musketeer ethos.</div><div><br /></div><div>So the current plan is to finish painting and buy the civilians but I want to try and make the buildings more of a town than a collection of houses on a mat. I thought of creating loose pavement bases so the houses can sit on them and I should be able to make more of a street scene using the pavements to delineate it. To make it look more lived in I thought straw and horse shit in the streets would help.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>If anyone who reads this has any ideas or can point me to pictures of street scenes in the early 1600's I would be most grateful.</div><div><br /></div><div>Cheers</div>Vagabondhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14031648950206231742noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7655102169795953648.post-54061211554333524382024-02-12T18:54:00.000+00:002024-02-12T18:54:07.106+00:00Sheep Rustling in the Debatable Land - The AftermathI expect there’s a huge body of wargamers and LAF members who are thinking “I wonder what happened to our jolly trio and Reba” ……..well maybe not but I’m going to tell you anyway. I felt the story was unfinished, did they get home, did Mad Wullie Snapcase, Dashing Dougie Douglas and the other one get away with it or are their corpses feeding the crows on some lonely moorland.<div><br /></div><div>Smalldale</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoQiHAg_L7wuOfcY7KCF0HDlGTbdDYEhh9Ju9z9J5lZPwG05T0E-KGhAPU_szzjvBe-TwD-8MJw07XLNzbQRc2h1OVWFWgqkN6Ex1IvhyphenhyphenMo6DrKXqDVRtUiVJWQXjoJa0q9eKbDGgAxIu9wqTQvaQyYgvuElAHeC_rVx4obx341mf8jJ_mIZWOZ3_0i2Kp/s700/a%2022%20P1510372.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="400" data-original-width="700" height="366" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoQiHAg_L7wuOfcY7KCF0HDlGTbdDYEhh9Ju9z9J5lZPwG05T0E-KGhAPU_szzjvBe-TwD-8MJw07XLNzbQRc2h1OVWFWgqkN6Ex1IvhyphenhyphenMo6DrKXqDVRtUiVJWQXjoJa0q9eKbDGgAxIu9wqTQvaQyYgvuElAHeC_rVx4obx341mf8jJ_mIZWOZ3_0i2Kp/w640-h366/a%2022%20P1510372.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div>The Snapcase hamlet is quiet….too damn quiet.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgogiuIZbfBHJdV1BEqX9dBbxxFQDsCMPqPAhGHwJRScfLzrLCzKX0mhJLGlb1zqmlZY04Lk4pWOVSvgGJ-xonnhZ79EECT0iqB5VIxSneL8lk_w-7QNiFAIUu_R42eWIyxvCb10T2eCtLftlDbGz5qNcMJomeFHj7k_3PqDAYsavc4mKnFGoFMa-0f0DGU/s700/a%2023%20P1510373.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="420" data-original-width="700" height="384" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgogiuIZbfBHJdV1BEqX9dBbxxFQDsCMPqPAhGHwJRScfLzrLCzKX0mhJLGlb1zqmlZY04Lk4pWOVSvgGJ-xonnhZ79EECT0iqB5VIxSneL8lk_w-7QNiFAIUu_R42eWIyxvCb10T2eCtLftlDbGz5qNcMJomeFHj7k_3PqDAYsavc4mKnFGoFMa-0f0DGU/w640-h384/a%2023%20P1510373.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div>A young girl, a bent back woman and maybe that’s One eyed Tam, but there should be more.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXi1-VjQvl0B2Q9R9R6IqJ1ckBYSoZ3U4DqRzaIPlYUDepdHgvPkVMNqUi2e2bqYTTTpadw8tRqeN5JCZSRYEgJJU4TKb_aZzYXEV6744Ith7kd3Kg_0rzrRZBDmIXrrmaemaYaLGyXWG7pDo1N1Ew143EqKWR_R-cV8SEMcGo_f5Ynm3yf9dj2xALF0R3/s700/a%2024%20P1510380.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="492" data-original-width="700" height="450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXi1-VjQvl0B2Q9R9R6IqJ1ckBYSoZ3U4DqRzaIPlYUDepdHgvPkVMNqUi2e2bqYTTTpadw8tRqeN5JCZSRYEgJJU4TKb_aZzYXEV6744Ith7kd3Kg_0rzrRZBDmIXrrmaemaYaLGyXWG7pDo1N1Ew143EqKWR_R-cV8SEMcGo_f5Ynm3yf9dj2xALF0R3/w640-h450/a%2024%20P1510380.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div>The place is deserted, have the Armstrong’s already been through here and killed everyone?</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJQZSpHsIqT7OV32OczFQbqW_TxiZOy_JEnqCEeVkSyGnFD4HsOmy9BcQwCSmYTcd8aDpOygZii7RYTNKjFNeuRzOlmu6AeJO2BkaI6_HUUPCdNHuWFvBjAx_VLxlbc04HNPVuww4DWa31H4LFP_xwG08kiK-EpbeQSKs2raSpz7SzvAyoTM-RPaeGH2PF/s700/a%2025%20P1510378.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="505" data-original-width="700" height="462" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJQZSpHsIqT7OV32OczFQbqW_TxiZOy_JEnqCEeVkSyGnFD4HsOmy9BcQwCSmYTcd8aDpOygZii7RYTNKjFNeuRzOlmu6AeJO2BkaI6_HUUPCdNHuWFvBjAx_VLxlbc04HNPVuww4DWa31H4LFP_xwG08kiK-EpbeQSKs2raSpz7SzvAyoTM-RPaeGH2PF/w640-h462/a%2025%20P1510378.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div>No……or the hay would be burning as would the buildings. Not the Armstrong’s then.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiD49lqbpZYDXCcH-z6PhCZeXLSM8dljn7sOcnAWaDc2A9zxljLDkJPmoViEBwFpmqlAtkDi_4z66WufWpsjhu2S1dlTCLtg9ytzCek9lNtXdt0CYfkVfOxxF7kn7bXsHpJLK5mLdOycqklyC6fPh_-fVM7SLiv2kgFpWLOY6YCqL5XTbHD7ajD23LIyMSh/s700/a%2026%20P1510376.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="700" height="412" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiD49lqbpZYDXCcH-z6PhCZeXLSM8dljn7sOcnAWaDc2A9zxljLDkJPmoViEBwFpmqlAtkDi_4z66WufWpsjhu2S1dlTCLtg9ytzCek9lNtXdt0CYfkVfOxxF7kn7bXsHpJLK5mLdOycqklyC6fPh_-fVM7SLiv2kgFpWLOY6YCqL5XTbHD7ajD23LIyMSh/w640-h412/a%2026%20P1510376.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div>Mad Wullie, Dashing Dougie and Vagabond enter the hamlet. There’s Reba with them but only 1 sheep and why is Wullie looking so humourless, it’s not like him.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXFLqJ0l1XNBEXqqHnAaCNrTw0ib5TUVGlPSuJzfoEoQzRCoRJ5ign7nG0iz0GN0ScWySHObmJww_NJUzYSbZBMc5YDbjli69y2lxr9XzbUXw5zs6Lp4vVEOwGo3D1XwvKic5CM9GF0Lgiw_-dJBqVH_uUP5LFrz9jOivJoj0wXwBx0_QvmTCc2TeXXk7E/s700/a%2027%20P1510384.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="462" data-original-width="700" height="422" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXFLqJ0l1XNBEXqqHnAaCNrTw0ib5TUVGlPSuJzfoEoQzRCoRJ5ign7nG0iz0GN0ScWySHObmJww_NJUzYSbZBMc5YDbjli69y2lxr9XzbUXw5zs6Lp4vVEOwGo3D1XwvKic5CM9GF0Lgiw_-dJBqVH_uUP5LFrz9jOivJoj0wXwBx0_QvmTCc2TeXXk7E/w640-h422/a%2027%20P1510384.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div>One Eyed Tam runs forward and embraces Vagabond, “Where the hell have you been. The whole vale is out looking for you” “Get off me you daft old bat” was the immediate response followed by “We’ll tell you later, just bring us a jug of ale and put this sheep in the pen before the blasted dog drives it off too”</div><div><br /></div><div>“She’s a good dog” Dougie says. “Good” explodes Mad Wullie “We reived 29 sheep and we’ve come home with one, that’s not good Dougie” “You’re going to have to improve your training methods or we will be eating uncontrollable dog for supper, and I’m getting hungry” he finished.</div><div><br /></div><div>It was late when most of our men and women returned from searching for us. There was some relief that we were home until Dikeray said “The sheep that’s in the pen, isn’t that the Armstrong colour on its rump” It all went quiet until we came clean and explained about the fog, then the snow and getting lost and raiding a farmstead and then finding out that it might have been an Armstrong farmstead, by this time everyone was looking worried. Then finally we described the fight at the ford, that cheered everyone up. No living Armstrong’s to tell the tale, that was alright then. Well it was alright until we mentioned Ill Will Armstrong coming over the hill before we had gotten out of sight.</div><div><br /></div><div>We’ll leave for the hills now some one shouted, leave everything, they’ll kill us all, were the sort of comments being bandied around as panic set in.</div><div><br /></div><div>“Calm down it’s OK” said Mad Wullie “they couldn’t follow us, it started to rain and then it turned to sleet, sleet so thick you couldn’t see your hand in front of your face”. “Not that you’d have tried to put your hand in front of your face or it would have gotten frostbite and dropped off. Anyway it’s only one sheep, they won’t care about one sheep”.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnQcwcTCv1xE2ybJprQAtcyETLIWOckFPbyLW1zdZ5TA5hlPVJn57xTL0OGdnvga4W6GTfJtqPcGG1v9wh3TLDTIV1Uwv5v3M5Yc3C5C1EddedZQ5-3qCfsVo3pYC6vYg0eyZuZdUrnwNUuinDwYz7Uvp4vEKxQeuAaDYnCWnMGGEfePShfwjWa8TQmTzU/s700/a%2028%20P1510393.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="440" data-original-width="700" height="402" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnQcwcTCv1xE2ybJprQAtcyETLIWOckFPbyLW1zdZ5TA5hlPVJn57xTL0OGdnvga4W6GTfJtqPcGG1v9wh3TLDTIV1Uwv5v3M5Yc3C5C1EddedZQ5-3qCfsVo3pYC6vYg0eyZuZdUrnwNUuinDwYz7Uvp4vEKxQeuAaDYnCWnMGGEfePShfwjWa8TQmTzU/w640-h402/a%2028%20P1510393.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div>Two days later, the Armstrong’s arrived, it appeared they did care.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0GyvRzN9-pEWtw5pV2YlALF24APWEcH4gApSQ09KgPXQVXX06GzbHdazOAiq4x75QChbG5Mb8YXLSM5-YprzljfGxKF-apZ03TSNk4f2BjGP2a3LwNk4XYOKHszeeg5UCvnP3MWtAUAAN7tb5MEdN2MvSCGKUeMoOQe3dbUec5MwF89LDYn13gABCNmug/s700/a%2029%20P1510394.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="387" data-original-width="700" height="354" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0GyvRzN9-pEWtw5pV2YlALF24APWEcH4gApSQ09KgPXQVXX06GzbHdazOAiq4x75QChbG5Mb8YXLSM5-YprzljfGxKF-apZ03TSNk4f2BjGP2a3LwNk4XYOKHszeeg5UCvnP3MWtAUAAN7tb5MEdN2MvSCGKUeMoOQe3dbUec5MwF89LDYn13gABCNmug/w640-h354/a%2029%20P1510394.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div>Ill Will Armstrong strode up to Snapcase and said “We’re looking for our sheep”</div><div><br /></div><div>I just knew Wullie was going to ask “Why, have you lost them and isn’t that a bit careless” I furtively loosened my sword in its scabbard. Fortunately Wullie had his game face on, the one that you learn means “don’t play dice with this man.” He replied noncommittally that we hadn’t had sheep in the valley, not since some skunner from south of the border had driven them off six months ago.</div><div><br /></div><div>Ill Will looked at Mad Wullie very carefully before telling him that they would search the hamlet and they’d do it thoroughly. As an aside he also informed us that they’d burned out 3 homesteads yesterday, for practice he said and also because they found Armstrong property there…..but mainly for the practice.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhneTaqYoxdTh0gJDmM57XbGl4lJopQ-eU2PTIC4t5LfJPOOPhzNIdCEaHokky_Hk2HHkDbZomFuy7igoqY1zUsZiOyz5bfRfyCEYfwhtWfrJqzoYrShlhjQTKHHDwnUeqU0Ug2Q0U7D8mwhTg6XvTrMHq7r-1verBXnOdLkLOUBu4FABAWM2NmM40ZSp0o/s700/a%2030%20P1510398.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="427" data-original-width="700" height="390" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhneTaqYoxdTh0gJDmM57XbGl4lJopQ-eU2PTIC4t5LfJPOOPhzNIdCEaHokky_Hk2HHkDbZomFuy7igoqY1zUsZiOyz5bfRfyCEYfwhtWfrJqzoYrShlhjQTKHHDwnUeqU0Ug2Q0U7D8mwhTg6XvTrMHq7r-1verBXnOdLkLOUBu4FABAWM2NmM40ZSp0o/w640-h390/a%2030%20P1510398.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div>His men fanned out, even checking the dwellings, I know we have a bad reputation, but why they’d look for sheep in the houses I couldn’t understand.</div><div><br /></div><div>Unless of course that the stories of One Eyed Tam and his night of debauchery in the sheep pen had got out of the valley and they were just making sure.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkWEgCQkH_DeJh5eMaELdjtxZX8CJePUOCJz8Gpp1lFJx77UigoXcQqVMJSw0XS7vPvQEd0yPj9pQvjMYWPYi_PVUH1EtX-WsK_fn86sKy5mXB_YhfgqcQMBY_biRkkqxJlaxxNwLZ0UsM0kdSIKAg1hGsPYtPK3BWuh7RABdfB6cTAmDbdCJE4Ot9JXH8/s700/a%2031%20P1510402.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="495" data-original-width="700" height="452" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkWEgCQkH_DeJh5eMaELdjtxZX8CJePUOCJz8Gpp1lFJx77UigoXcQqVMJSw0XS7vPvQEd0yPj9pQvjMYWPYi_PVUH1EtX-WsK_fn86sKy5mXB_YhfgqcQMBY_biRkkqxJlaxxNwLZ0UsM0kdSIKAg1hGsPYtPK3BWuh7RABdfB6cTAmDbdCJE4Ot9JXH8/w640-h452/a%2031%20P1510402.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div>The remainder of the Armstrong’s watched us, ready for action but looked distinctly uneasy, I guess that was our bad reputation as well, hopefully as fighters rather than with the sheep, but you never know.</div><div><br /></div><div>I looked apprehensively at the 2 fire pits, one was still glowing a little, then I looked away.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwzdzJbu60sUHrpvrKuCcgyNwevTb45LKH5uvInYv2_9oKzrmY7Qg-fQGlZp7FVpbwW-a1I3AcgZS9jGHaZPFiC3kdXNvTpZF2qDVVSMMzd7Z7agL5JzgOSjeyjolp5q0V6rRtL6Ff-JPlQbsCtef03Ugu8YL92Ok_gXiHBT1MrOt26l3W_gJ0oMgvHHev/s700/a%2032%20P1510399.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="446" data-original-width="700" height="408" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwzdzJbu60sUHrpvrKuCcgyNwevTb45LKH5uvInYv2_9oKzrmY7Qg-fQGlZp7FVpbwW-a1I3AcgZS9jGHaZPFiC3kdXNvTpZF2qDVVSMMzd7Z7agL5JzgOSjeyjolp5q0V6rRtL6Ff-JPlQbsCtef03Ugu8YL92Ok_gXiHBT1MrOt26l3W_gJ0oMgvHHev/w640-h408/a%2032%20P1510399.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div>Checking the pen they were only able to find two small pigs, yes that out of focus blob is a pig.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjh2ZH9VtRo9J1GiSGQQqT1FhhW2LLAQn3ONqCtwQ-cnRj4GkPmje8aUV87EFSuXk1sAd3fU_cPCZ0TcV_i_NuKRo3qgKTgnxarABaMnzHmajdjoV7-icaMRtEF4z8i9i_BrHbevKIhxYDLrRPVSgKrt7rJcYr_v-B-OWpDjHCMlhErevXr7k7UjroI8pMM/s700/a%2033%20P1510400.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="439" data-original-width="700" height="402" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjh2ZH9VtRo9J1GiSGQQqT1FhhW2LLAQn3ONqCtwQ-cnRj4GkPmje8aUV87EFSuXk1sAd3fU_cPCZ0TcV_i_NuKRo3qgKTgnxarABaMnzHmajdjoV7-icaMRtEF4z8i9i_BrHbevKIhxYDLrRPVSgKrt7rJcYr_v-B-OWpDjHCMlhErevXr7k7UjroI8pMM/w640-h402/a%2033%20P1510400.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div>The search continued until every where was declared clean, well it’s not LAPD and things were pretty grubby but you know what I mean.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkjs784ZUOtd0ZAnfZtxtSjtQa0S1QQ0K6G94YT2Tzc97nWQQGjTxLymneiYJdjly8RRBUPYBs-PqFPv0j0_t96qC9ASAUJt7eJzHVLlMh_G1Cj1EvFr8M0EAgBFdVBPjsp8MSdX2F7BYCZS-Jza_KXMFMr1H_3SqcXo2VnEau4YHUcD4du8yXK_cVMcer/s700/a%2034%20P1510403.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="413" data-original-width="700" height="378" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkjs784ZUOtd0ZAnfZtxtSjtQa0S1QQ0K6G94YT2Tzc97nWQQGjTxLymneiYJdjly8RRBUPYBs-PqFPv0j0_t96qC9ASAUJt7eJzHVLlMh_G1Cj1EvFr8M0EAgBFdVBPjsp8MSdX2F7BYCZS-Jza_KXMFMr1H_3SqcXo2VnEau4YHUcD4du8yXK_cVMcer/w640-h378/a%2034%20P1510403.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div>With some reluctance on their part, Ill Will and his men left to continue their search for the lost Armstrong sheep.</div><div>Dougie looked at the fire pits and started to smile.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP2xuQh4QLhLRFSBcElS2oBRN3AIGGKhYKYr7vSBSYZOT94xiOiwUerCeOcoDb9xF5PH0ieuTubZGw9LjVhuLsjJxKBcd1XpjmJTybzesOvy308ABkdwFs64QvwH0jP3JJbp2uXS9JyEmWQN3RBnTWpZuRFWjNrO-xZr7gXrq5bforK6UaIX17nME1ccH-/s700/a%2035%20P1510406.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="510" data-original-width="700" height="466" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP2xuQh4QLhLRFSBcElS2oBRN3AIGGKhYKYr7vSBSYZOT94xiOiwUerCeOcoDb9xF5PH0ieuTubZGw9LjVhuLsjJxKBcd1XpjmJTybzesOvy308ABkdwFs64QvwH0jP3JJbp2uXS9JyEmWQN3RBnTWpZuRFWjNrO-xZr7gXrq5bforK6UaIX17nME1ccH-/w640-h466/a%2035%20P1510406.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div>When the last Armstrong was out of earshot we started to laugh, and couldn’t stop. Nervousness and a close call with the Armstrong family can’t be ruled out.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMC7cPAIRY_nxUqL2GoD8OuxFcui1IBmjrm_XG-5b7asQC3ALatxaEbkbq8wswCrF81xhYh0pMsTXD8xG-KRYGEfgVif1R_3XMAnKeb9ESQRQDYXjxjweNweqATy1ZNCTI0bEJthnDwlM4gNf6xDviMz-JM4UPOoDmrAbmIUVo7K4kfrwk4nN0LSeTSkWi/s700/a%2036%20P1510387.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="484" data-original-width="700" height="442" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMC7cPAIRY_nxUqL2GoD8OuxFcui1IBmjrm_XG-5b7asQC3ALatxaEbkbq8wswCrF81xhYh0pMsTXD8xG-KRYGEfgVif1R_3XMAnKeb9ESQRQDYXjxjweNweqATy1ZNCTI0bEJthnDwlM4gNf6xDviMz-JM4UPOoDmrAbmIUVo7K4kfrwk4nN0LSeTSkWi/w640-h442/a%2036%20P1510387.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div>If they’d arrived yesterday it wouldn’t have been a laughing matter, tears would have fallen and blood would have been spilled, our blood in all probability.</div><div><br /></div><div>We had invited our closest neighbours and had a feast. There’d been music, dancing, Dougie demonstrating how Reba could round up hens and we’d had a gay old time.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDF2-flICdJLg-O1KlghI2HcSAs3cwi0yNlw6mKdFlMjslodk8qvDW_CMlTJQtEQTSP32iDg0p9eiYo7XIPEcSMbbxzjSha_ekzNqBKlFLUBZGepRPXbsCjbwaLQ8WuOHxFZZBAgkL-jMZdeDWtGyxoW5Mq78YQfF6l61UC1zAPnodnPKk9nP55r71kka3/s700/a%2037%20P1510392.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="463" data-original-width="700" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDF2-flICdJLg-O1KlghI2HcSAs3cwi0yNlw6mKdFlMjslodk8qvDW_CMlTJQtEQTSP32iDg0p9eiYo7XIPEcSMbbxzjSha_ekzNqBKlFLUBZGepRPXbsCjbwaLQ8WuOHxFZZBAgkL-jMZdeDWtGyxoW5Mq78YQfF6l61UC1zAPnodnPKk9nP55r71kka3/w640-h424/a%2037%20P1510392.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div>Well what else can you do with 1 sheep, it had been spit roast over an open fire and cooked to perfection, eaten with gusto and best of all there was no evidence for anyone to find…..unless Ill Will had cut us open to inspect out entrails.</div><div><br /></div><div>The blurry pigs had disposed of the bones and other bits and pieces and so, if no one outside the Vale heard of our feast we would be safe. None of us was likely to brag about our sheep raid….were they.</div><div><br /></div><div>And how many sheep did you reive, 29 we reply. That’s a very nice sized flock they say, did you loose any on the way home……28 we reply. No - no one would brag about this raid…..maybe next time!</div><div><br /></div><div>Cheers<br /> </div>Vagabondhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14031648950206231742noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7655102169795953648.post-8516588374899466652024-02-04T20:28:00.002+00:002024-02-04T20:28:25.024+00:00Sheep Rustling in the Debatable Land - The FightSheep Raiding in the Debatable Lands<div><br /></div><div>“Well that’s torn it” said Mad Wullie Snapcase, “they have to be Armstrong’s across the river, looks like we’ll have to fight our way through”. “We’ll have to leave the sheep, they’ll just get in the way” said Dashing Dougie Douglas, “I don’t think Reba can hold them together unless I’m with her”. “Bugger that” I responded, “we’ll drive the sheep straight at them, once they’re in the river they’ll stay on the line of the ford”. My companions looked dubious at that idiotic remark! </div><div><br /></div><div>Well I’m not leaving them behind without a fight I continued, lets go. There is a rumour in our valley that I’m a Yorkshireman with all the kindness and generosity of a Scotsman squeezed out of him, but of course that’s ridiculous, but having got the sheep I wasn’t going to give them back meekly.</div><div><br /></div><div>“If we wrap our scarves around our heads they’ll not recognise us, maybe we can get through without bringing hell and damnation on the rest of our folk”, said Dougie. “We could shout the Grahams war cry” said Wullie, “I can’t remember what it is but I’m sure it’ll come to me”.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8ojsGhF3BOldFjZrwocBnToqzC1jDJ37wRc65GGmRXzggaDQehS02KSQWA2Z7Ibx2Sw_RGi9qBcbk1qRTFjHMkG_8d6eZdZ_Ys1mMU01L2-AlGGnbpowHKD4JMhtFd7IVzrCo06bISS5qfOCEhxKzs5QbHzp6xCWS58Co1_5jMAy8OMwsU_IgsU14tqvp/s700/a%2007%20P1510343.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="481" data-original-width="700" height="440" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8ojsGhF3BOldFjZrwocBnToqzC1jDJ37wRc65GGmRXzggaDQehS02KSQWA2Z7Ibx2Sw_RGi9qBcbk1qRTFjHMkG_8d6eZdZ_Ys1mMU01L2-AlGGnbpowHKD4JMhtFd7IVzrCo06bISS5qfOCEhxKzs5QbHzp6xCWS58Co1_5jMAy8OMwsU_IgsU14tqvp/w640-h440/a%2007%20P1510343.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Surprisingly we got the sheep moving in the right direction, Reba was working well and we had them surrounded on 3 sides leaving the way open to the water.</div><div><br /></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkVm52ucSvJNEFvAv4_zy4KQUL1nfcC7JMvO2p5UD3e-jybm5az3PR9K2OG0zIDO-Keg49xIMyhKjgu6HDK3gw02zbH8T2rzy7HO7WmuCFg5f076SVesU5BxaQTBcfVKWl0lk_bdDIvSG_2CaBXfTb-XeupQc8XmkT0cExL-YQBuaI0zCctBZ5LrCvDHcX/s700/a%2008%20P1510345.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="436" data-original-width="700" height="398" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkVm52ucSvJNEFvAv4_zy4KQUL1nfcC7JMvO2p5UD3e-jybm5az3PR9K2OG0zIDO-Keg49xIMyhKjgu6HDK3gw02zbH8T2rzy7HO7WmuCFg5f076SVesU5BxaQTBcfVKWl0lk_bdDIvSG_2CaBXfTb-XeupQc8XmkT0cExL-YQBuaI0zCctBZ5LrCvDHcX/w640-h398/a%2008%20P1510345.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div>That’s when they bolted, first they went left and Reba remained under Dougie’s control, then they turned and started back the way we’d come and again the cries and whistles from her master guided the dog to the right place and she shopped the stampede.</div><div><br /></div><div>Although I’m not sure a flock of 3 sheep can stampede, the 4th one was quietly munching grass as Wullie eyed it malevolently.</div><div><br /></div><div>Jasper Armstrong on the far side of the river watched this circus and took another sip of whisky from his flask and considered if he should attack the Lone Rustler before the other 2 clowns could get back and help, but his two cousins said they should stay put.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7y3kYGs-yGrM4h2SRj7GL8WR5Veo8kRK_atn1PMYgSqYPkBTkvXJGa4KqqjIaIbhVdDYWOf613Hm-1h9bl1813NV2XtaeSPSCRwp6Nrnto9I8sYW650oLpA-PVGAUqieRVVqQuFlkr5IZuATrHSkGssQhm4IIGZmLRx7H7yjCciy2jpGji_xfM1u0RtIn/s700/a%2009%20P1510349.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="507" data-original-width="700" height="464" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7y3kYGs-yGrM4h2SRj7GL8WR5Veo8kRK_atn1PMYgSqYPkBTkvXJGa4KqqjIaIbhVdDYWOf613Hm-1h9bl1813NV2XtaeSPSCRwp6Nrnto9I8sYW650oLpA-PVGAUqieRVVqQuFlkr5IZuATrHSkGssQhm4IIGZmLRx7H7yjCciy2jpGji_xfM1u0RtIn/w640-h464/a%2009%20P1510349.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div>We finally got the sheep back to the ford and the danger to Snapcase was over without him ever realizing it existed.</div><div><br /></div><div>The whisky was getting to Jasper and he became more and more desperate to advance into the ford and bring the fight to the enemy. “We can take you” he shouted but his cousins remained adamant that they wouldn’t go into the river.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkJn046-KFTVd0sSqLnY1HF2pywbpWigbDoRPTr7cUfcV3bxBRHGryl3Pi0j9LyNDN1DoWHC842y6KELJtZdp4nsNEsxABgBrqZS2-RVUAG-ffUGQKaso7kZmWYXuI6AXwhiuOs4jFwtu4pp2NrO2qSN5Z3m-xWbIQErJ7MMMg6DMHU2EjkmDXIZkG3m59/s700/a%2010%20P1510350.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="473" data-original-width="700" height="432" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkJn046-KFTVd0sSqLnY1HF2pywbpWigbDoRPTr7cUfcV3bxBRHGryl3Pi0j9LyNDN1DoWHC842y6KELJtZdp4nsNEsxABgBrqZS2-RVUAG-ffUGQKaso7kZmWYXuI6AXwhiuOs4jFwtu4pp2NrO2qSN5Z3m-xWbIQErJ7MMMg6DMHU2EjkmDXIZkG3m59/w640-h432/a%2010%20P1510350.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div>We pushed and roared at the sheep and they went forward but the water was getting deeper with each step, 18” at least, Reba was swimming now as one of the blasted woolly things veered off the ford and into deep water on the downstream side. I rushed forward to try and catch it but slipped on the smooth pebbles under foot and nearly went in myself. Wullie was advancing slow and careful but the Douglas moved as fast as he could to rescue his dog. It nearly was the end, he slipped and went down on one knee but didn’t fall, “damn and blast you Reba, Cum Bye” but the dog was out of control, chasing the sheep and ignored him.</div><div><br /></div><div>Jasper Armstrong held his pistol loosely and knew he could make the shot, as he was raising his arm his 1st cousin said “no, not yet, wait till they get closer”.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgI1l0yt90FQHo1YhCeaAPWi_ZlhYUR21BPDM1qIVNjmu7lBf_H7uPWE9x9wF0f938DfNKSp5TeQi_ocBvMx7pF3c0Xa3kOiHBXIGZ7aS7ifnCAOqwdl2bjgVu9F9hDywjhDRsuRbkdw-aiZc7FLQQ2qUbrpRgAPShTU6XEJUCtFguZJp5ZzanHt-rLchsv/s700/a%2011%20P1510351.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="425" data-original-width="700" height="388" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgI1l0yt90FQHo1YhCeaAPWi_ZlhYUR21BPDM1qIVNjmu7lBf_H7uPWE9x9wF0f938DfNKSp5TeQi_ocBvMx7pF3c0Xa3kOiHBXIGZ7aS7ifnCAOqwdl2bjgVu9F9hDywjhDRsuRbkdw-aiZc7FLQQ2qUbrpRgAPShTU6XEJUCtFguZJp5ZzanHt-rLchsv/w640-h388/a%2011%20P1510351.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div>The wayward sheep was trying to get back to the flock and I reached down and pulled it back onto the ford and the water became more shallow as we neared the far bank, only 6” here and we were almost across. Reba is now out of the water but still chasing the sheep and Dougie is still chasing her. Yet again he moves too fast and nearly falls, but cat like, he’s up immediately.</div><div><br /></div><div>Mad Wullie also slips but doesn’t fall, we’ve been luck so far, as Jasper assess the range he decides it’s still too far, well his 1st cousin knows it’s too far, Jasper is a rubbish shot.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcnlrjOL9JJJXwIsCwN2-hDEOsqXDKdIAxn0FxeTMsh-oTFLbafuuG9CQ4aib6u-mhOpz5H2LmC40xjcL5klJy1WztGXKiMW3-TVwumHfYsSNoNq_Q2ZfDWBSBvOXC8MmlrIDfpiBZcnBKLeHQr7AciwryyqYlAIirjvm7lXM9nExiiG58hNmRpy42yfvW/s700/a%2012%20P1510352.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="700" height="438" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcnlrjOL9JJJXwIsCwN2-hDEOsqXDKdIAxn0FxeTMsh-oTFLbafuuG9CQ4aib6u-mhOpz5H2LmC40xjcL5klJy1WztGXKiMW3-TVwumHfYsSNoNq_Q2ZfDWBSBvOXC8MmlrIDfpiBZcnBKLeHQr7AciwryyqYlAIirjvm7lXM9nExiiG58hNmRpy42yfvW/w640-h438/a%2012%20P1510352.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div>“Ne Oublie” “Ne Oublie” Snapcase shouts I think he’s gone mad but it turns out he’s finally remembered the Grahams battle cry, and Reba takes it up, barking like a mad thing, the sheep bound forward in the shallow water…..straight at the Armstrong line.</div><div><br /></div><div>“I’ll take the one in the centre” the Douglas and I shout in unison and we fire together. Jasper Armstrong staggers as he’s hit, “I got him” we both cry in unison, “no I got him” we both countermand the other.</div><div><br /></div><div>“First blood to us” screams Wullie “Ne Oublie” “Ne Oublie” “Kill them”</div><div><br /></div><div>This would have seen lesser men take to their heels but the Border Folk are made of stern stuff.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1FbGxMtcchWHiTun_py5gbjEbQG3yO4GJ1p5tXiiNtHD41h1GWWXh5bW4odilLBhaOAW6Xdy4VPk_kcv4iFbdEY5K-SRxihnEul8sK8wOTMCZV4TNhhs_Gv_dfafEGcZSDdihAhM1vLcKZcGpTboYkiNpKoWQl_zQhEPoagjPcqHsLPQ6glQtmNNZKor3/s700/a%2013%20P1510357.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="469" data-original-width="700" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1FbGxMtcchWHiTun_py5gbjEbQG3yO4GJ1p5tXiiNtHD41h1GWWXh5bW4odilLBhaOAW6Xdy4VPk_kcv4iFbdEY5K-SRxihnEul8sK8wOTMCZV4TNhhs_Gv_dfafEGcZSDdihAhM1vLcKZcGpTboYkiNpKoWQl_zQhEPoagjPcqHsLPQ6glQtmNNZKor3/w640-h428/a%2013%20P1510357.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div>Two of the sheep managed to avoid the Armstrong’s but the two on the right ran full tilt into Jasper and his 1st cousin. Both Armstrong’s managed to stay on their feet but disaster for the one on the right because he dropped his half pike and is defenceless when Wullie heaves himself up onto the river bank swinging his sword like a Norse God. Wullie said later that he slipped on the muddy bank but it was just an excuse, his opponent ducked the flailing attack and didn’t go down.</div><div><br /></div><div>Jasper clutches his wounded gut as the sheep hit him, also drops a weapon, his pistol and Wullie thinks of the broken one in his waistband, useless with the broken lock and can see where it’s replacement is coming from.</div><div><br /></div><div>Dashing Dougie also made it to the river bank but Grim Armstrong didn’t give way and he drove Dougie back into the water.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOPz0G4oruDeDP62s0rWApDURD2t4CDxZFiy3smdWuf6JlnMjwhKw_ff7BgmemlED22D1CcajazHNkHH5mlpCBho4vAWTACg1qknjln9CLbGPuRJJ6LbztP4GSIsqeEwpCOBoNw-5iKHfovs-NDYtZsJDZsfqht9Klxc0RtD6ql53KWHPL6WRkCHbBNrf_/s700/a%2014%20P1510355.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="407" data-original-width="700" height="372" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOPz0G4oruDeDP62s0rWApDURD2t4CDxZFiy3smdWuf6JlnMjwhKw_ff7BgmemlED22D1CcajazHNkHH5mlpCBho4vAWTACg1qknjln9CLbGPuRJJ6LbztP4GSIsqeEwpCOBoNw-5iKHfovs-NDYtZsJDZsfqht9Klxc0RtD6ql53KWHPL6WRkCHbBNrf_/w640-h372/a%2014%20P1510355.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div>As I dashed forward I’d stumbled yet again in the treacherous ford, going down but the water was shallow and I just got wet through. Damn this, I’ll catch my death of cold so I took a gulp from my hip flask before moving forward to join the fight.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLhhgfqnL-T-Pjo12ANdI1ZYp0sYariVFjwHzV1w7acEeteRlSbf8eLD1lqmPlwe1WFdhObGg34aJrxjFjXcIePsh2WgABUAofA5MN1Gkc33hqsSZwegeyLxgJvwOE7GuQofO4QraFnRCzJtefENK5_nFDPpVkRElyLfH62XxjXicN90NJmkc4BrnxavzK/s700/a%2015%20P1510361.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="475" data-original-width="700" height="434" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLhhgfqnL-T-Pjo12ANdI1ZYp0sYariVFjwHzV1w7acEeteRlSbf8eLD1lqmPlwe1WFdhObGg34aJrxjFjXcIePsh2WgABUAofA5MN1Gkc33hqsSZwegeyLxgJvwOE7GuQofO4QraFnRCzJtefENK5_nFDPpVkRElyLfH62XxjXicN90NJmkc4BrnxavzK/w640-h434/a%2015%20P1510361.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div>I attacked Grim, relieving the pressure on Dougie, but he was good and forced me back. Dougie had recovered his breath and attacked and again was forced back. Reba his dog went mad, out of control and she attacked Grim Armstrong, biting at his ankles. He tried to kick her but to no avail.</div><div><br /></div><div>Snapcase didn’t give his opponent a chance to recover and attacked again and again. His enemy didn’t stand a chance without a weapon and died on the banks of the river.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSQVj47DyQl4L59QG28ZGSQtCt5LyIm7X98GQBYNjbm9BD5OtgIbIN5e-vf-_e1FNp9j1NfmJxmTXp1ls8H9VoEzXjutQIXHPiBuq5rXd6ddhekBpEOgVjrAPdVnlEnt-stBDuuMv7moiMtBPiICVX9muUm7ivyUnWcCT027bMcntlML_ZHoIrC4AdC2kA/s700/a%2016%20P1510363.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="469" data-original-width="700" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSQVj47DyQl4L59QG28ZGSQtCt5LyIm7X98GQBYNjbm9BD5OtgIbIN5e-vf-_e1FNp9j1NfmJxmTXp1ls8H9VoEzXjutQIXHPiBuq5rXd6ddhekBpEOgVjrAPdVnlEnt-stBDuuMv7moiMtBPiICVX9muUm7ivyUnWcCT027bMcntlML_ZHoIrC4AdC2kA/w640-h428/a%2016%20P1510363.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div>Grim Armstrong has backed away from Reba and away from the river bank as Mad Wullie Snapcase shouting and screaming “Kill them,” “Ne Oublie” “Ne Oublie” “Kill them”, charges forward at Jasper Armstrong. Any man would have been forgiven for running but not Jasper.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLDDRO2ds3WlaPVQTT_40dIzru_qc1L2JXB4wKy_z_Z9cKluB3tt-3tMrf8y8j7nw2f9x5u5ar53XJGbHKRiWh5cLjw4B3RkLCrt4DhsYfK9wVMMaKTgHq8HBo-b_woKU4ojJzRg2ekt2oD6z8hW90GEhFmOUjIIe92am8Lp-68cGP_VV9DksYQo71KxAD/s700/a%2017%20P1510364.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="487" data-original-width="700" height="446" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLDDRO2ds3WlaPVQTT_40dIzru_qc1L2JXB4wKy_z_Z9cKluB3tt-3tMrf8y8j7nw2f9x5u5ar53XJGbHKRiWh5cLjw4B3RkLCrt4DhsYfK9wVMMaKTgHq8HBo-b_woKU4ojJzRg2ekt2oD6z8hW90GEhFmOUjIIe92am8Lp-68cGP_VV9DksYQo71KxAD/w640-h446/a%2017%20P1510364.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div>He stood his ground with my pistol ball in his guts and fought Snapcase man to man. It might have been the drink but he put up a strong resistance to this determined attack.</div><div><br /></div><div>Grim Armstrong turned to run but Dougie and I got there before he could and with two of us we overpowered him, he was down with a sword slash to the leg as it started to rain.</div><div><br /></div><div>We turned to help Snapcase but he shouted “Stand back, he’s mine” and he went for Jasper again.</div><div><br /></div><div>I looked at Dougie and he looked back. “Well one of us has to do it” I muttered, but neither of us could.</div><div><br /></div><div>Then Jasper went down and Snapcase said, what are you waiting for as he cut Jaspers throat. Nothing we said and did the same to Grim.</div><div><br /></div><div>There will be no one to tell the tale.</div><div><br /></div><div>“OK, we’d better go, and quickly”, I said pointing back the way we’d come.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpioO1Clspu2S9nOZEC-kXDSWlXXdu2zFC5CpyyYZstc7Eg9gCPzzbF-JLYgi30theYc3P7bl6i5m3v4oJfDNmmDANxMbY6y_y1ucEqkWi9eqoyFcjqnb1cpj-eN4LliFIOCydNECoRxAr6WOVGFaD41aQgqMHFiPgCfFs32Og1UAEBaspf8iTv3pLUQbX/s700/a%2018%20P1510366.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="525" data-original-width="700" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpioO1Clspu2S9nOZEC-kXDSWlXXdu2zFC5CpyyYZstc7Eg9gCPzzbF-JLYgi30theYc3P7bl6i5m3v4oJfDNmmDANxMbY6y_y1ucEqkWi9eqoyFcjqnb1cpj-eN4LliFIOCydNECoRxAr6WOVGFaD41aQgqMHFiPgCfFs32Og1UAEBaspf8iTv3pLUQbX/w640-h480/a%2018%20P1510366.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div>As a large group of figures came over the hill…..Armstrong’s? Hells teeth is that Ill Will Armstrong leading them?</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiT0q09LYbAfgl2CsDA8ryEmQZNaNolF7WajK61O8WJy_fMOUIvu4CmNlIcge5xjxI1_DAtjP2Hwcrdz8JE5J5LfnCr96c7HwrEJhiFLjk2nWno7NQaYBBglQmuHSeH0W9TPhc2wD8UPi74tuzIAI3MnUe9gQujSNqG3Lm1vz000Lzk8VCyKL5_vQ1VXrm/s700/a%2019%20P1510369.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="525" data-original-width="700" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiT0q09LYbAfgl2CsDA8ryEmQZNaNolF7WajK61O8WJy_fMOUIvu4CmNlIcge5xjxI1_DAtjP2Hwcrdz8JE5J5LfnCr96c7HwrEJhiFLjk2nWno7NQaYBBglQmuHSeH0W9TPhc2wD8UPi74tuzIAI3MnUe9gQujSNqG3Lm1vz000Lzk8VCyKL5_vQ1VXrm/w640-h480/a%2019%20P1510369.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div>We didn’t wait to find out.</div>Vagabondhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14031648950206231742noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7655102169795953648.post-77903838675946847682024-02-02T21:19:00.000+00:002024-02-02T21:19:07.299+00:00Sheep Rustling in the Debatable Land Backstory and Scenario<div><br /></div><div>A short backstory to a game and the scenario for the game.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiD9Tknd4SxYe0mad0tQwwy2_NZayMzRZwNyL1YRq1pIXZJV-6zmV_l9qI7-KBeMVG4qX9pNGN9Y87jEX_fAoSE5S5faKydNgRQkwqvM7zZtj2U4YLIutgVTbcXnTBh1gWCF18Gpxo5ix3Cbo_26zjPckNT_FCaN4eEgSKTl4h3tCG3Bc9rnBaHB5mlnZTo/s700/a%2001%20P1510331.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="356" data-original-width="700" height="326" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiD9Tknd4SxYe0mad0tQwwy2_NZayMzRZwNyL1YRq1pIXZJV-6zmV_l9qI7-KBeMVG4qX9pNGN9Y87jEX_fAoSE5S5faKydNgRQkwqvM7zZtj2U4YLIutgVTbcXnTBh1gWCF18Gpxo5ix3Cbo_26zjPckNT_FCaN4eEgSKTl4h3tCG3Bc9rnBaHB5mlnZTo/w640-h326/a%2001%20P1510331.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Damn this fog, we were lost again, well in reality we’d been lost for the best past of 3 days, would we ever find a landmark we recognised, and then all of a sudden it started to clear. Slowly at first, the tendrils of grey wispy mist gradually disappeared and on a cold grey day in November we saw the river and the standing stone on the low hillside above it. Devils Ford, I recognised it straight away and so did my companions, their faces lit up and they quickened their step, until realisation set in.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgs7HIaGEcA2e98SjFZGS03zSkCsMvqEQKsGTtbvVZhYMNqhYkox0317gsKmDkHZSYsxV-S7jg_accNH4gFegv1ra9oGOdavcD5LQTsg79efX82ByqaiJtVPLrfIrQxemUVHs6zDyJ0uNmVyBv3yzWmwpRxk0yr0XDMSnWIF0kuCZSUQErmRGvqwzJv8z-4/s700/a%2002%20P1510336.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="525" data-original-width="700" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgs7HIaGEcA2e98SjFZGS03zSkCsMvqEQKsGTtbvVZhYMNqhYkox0317gsKmDkHZSYsxV-S7jg_accNH4gFegv1ra9oGOdavcD5LQTsg79efX82ByqaiJtVPLrfIrQxemUVHs6zDyJ0uNmVyBv3yzWmwpRxk0yr0XDMSnWIF0kuCZSUQErmRGvqwzJv8z-4/w640-h480/a%2002%20P1510336.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>“Reba cum by” I heard Dougie say as the mutt started to get excited again. She had been the bane of our lives, ever since we left home. Dougie was convinced that his training had turned her into a sheep dog and we had believed him. What fools we’d been, after one day we were left with only 4 sheep out of the flock of 29 we had stolen from the Armstrong’s that morning.</div><div><br /></div><div>The Armstrong’s I hear you gasp in amazement, they are the strongest and most feared family in the West Marches, fully able and willing to bring 3,000 men to a fight. We owed allegiance to no one and if we mustered every man in our valley we could barely raise 24. Although if you counted Lame Tam and One Eyed Ned that would increase our number to 26, and would even the odds......a little.</div><div><br /></div><div>Perhaps I should start at the beginning, and it had sounded a promising beginning three nights ago, when full of the local Poteen we’d decided we weren’t too old to make one last raid across the border before the winter set in. There were three of us, Mad Willie Snapcase, Dashing Dougie Douglas and me, The Black Vagabond. We told no one of our venture, fully intending to come back bragging of our successful raid.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBPCijci_ynivkpE2kAOwOnXmVjmyo01TkDmGLnJ_K_ime_GKnsWI4tvCI8MjGeHYtdoBZbnC6fExyM9NPaXwH6AIWtuQ7kiM88sNOeOoNw2ZbL21rOnvDa2qM5ueIcQXk-UU0MxgGseu71VkOdKpaYgAh6LZQiBGHQbSYWlG4xwUKln8ia_y_zJYxd5o_/s700/a%2003%20P1510341.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="387" data-original-width="700" height="354" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBPCijci_ynivkpE2kAOwOnXmVjmyo01TkDmGLnJ_K_ime_GKnsWI4tvCI8MjGeHYtdoBZbnC6fExyM9NPaXwH6AIWtuQ7kiM88sNOeOoNw2ZbL21rOnvDa2qM5ueIcQXk-UU0MxgGseu71VkOdKpaYgAh6LZQiBGHQbSYWlG4xwUKln8ia_y_zJYxd5o_/w640-h354/a%2003%20P1510341.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>We’d left early, in the dark but by mid morning it was bright sunshine, then the weather turned and it just got worse. Mist so thick you couldn’t see the man in front, of the man in front of you, and there were only the 3 of us. Then the snow came, driving hard and fierce, blinding us for hours before ceasing and by that time we were lost. We slept out on the hillside, cold, because we couldn’t find any dry kindling but we were well fed, the dried meat was good, unlike the cold porridge which was bloody awful. Another morning of mist and sleet and then in late afternoon we spied a small farmstead in the distance. Not being sure where we were, we decided to raid it before first light and make our way home as fast as we could.</div><div><br /></div><div>It was a long night, sheltering behind a dry stone wall but a fire was out of the question, even if everything wasn’t wet through. The first gleam of daylight enabled us to round up the small herd of sheep from the fold near the house without waking the occupants, and we set off westward.......in the general direction of home. </div><div><br /></div><div>It was only now, seeing the Devils Ford that we realised we’d come off the High Rigg on the east side of the uplands and raided the vale inhabited by a branch of the Armstrong family, we’d made what might be the biggest mistake of our lives.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkNQCuNzugk0t4iA-AOtkBDZuFXz6CLJ0wltCkT45Kd3e2dgUI6UNiqeumQuzyPVQ5sP93vh0R7R9FaQ00LtTRMF-r7kcX0g3RpAJy-mB8ldRTuyBZtIRCdd_1eEll6KsEevUnQWHL5xa4VZGPLXP8tiFb0WN7cO387GafImcEsrexImCGpWteC1e_LsWP/s700/a%2004%20P1510332.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="525" data-original-width="700" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkNQCuNzugk0t4iA-AOtkBDZuFXz6CLJ0wltCkT45Kd3e2dgUI6UNiqeumQuzyPVQ5sP93vh0R7R9FaQ00LtTRMF-r7kcX0g3RpAJy-mB8ldRTuyBZtIRCdd_1eEll6KsEevUnQWHL5xa4VZGPLXP8tiFb0WN7cO387GafImcEsrexImCGpWteC1e_LsWP/w640-h480/a%2004%20P1510332.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div>“No use worrying about it now” said Mad Willie, “let’s get this flock across the ford, it’s only 15 miles to home, we should make it before dark”. “If we can keep the mutt from driving off the last 4 sheep in the flock” I muttered darkly. “She’s a good dog” Douggie said, bending down to pat the mutts head and then she started to growl.</div><div><br /></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOuNYhXg5hXVrv8ejMcV6-Es3g-inB2mLUPVvsdS3PZdm0c5MtPZcr-JIf00ExNKO3fB9n5jcIjQc_UCxAuq_PGw76ZCTV59Bj-yOSpllcbTznb62v0PCSP-9c4HgsMDA8I0xdBDXrwWfqD2uJJ4qV7EXGYq-qxxyNuHE5h9B8K7_gLin70CPpDVm_pCOU/s700/a%2005%20P1510335.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="442" data-original-width="700" height="404" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOuNYhXg5hXVrv8ejMcV6-Es3g-inB2mLUPVvsdS3PZdm0c5MtPZcr-JIf00ExNKO3fB9n5jcIjQc_UCxAuq_PGw76ZCTV59Bj-yOSpllcbTznb62v0PCSP-9c4HgsMDA8I0xdBDXrwWfqD2uJJ4qV7EXGYq-qxxyNuHE5h9B8K7_gLin70CPpDVm_pCOU/w640-h404/a%2005%20P1510335.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>He swiftly took his hand away but Willie said “it’s not you, look over there. Three shadowy figures emerged from the mist on the far side of the ford. “Armstrong's”, he spat the words out, “that’s put a damper on it”.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZaC19aDIioOrRy3I7wM-4XfxyOGj2Nm16h9AyGDv2B0L1UfW9TcnGDIbt_6LuJNwtJnJyCHdQsmJHDu_sDNLYL7Qu2cuDzVEzOaLO90xXZ0jwe11qERVXuVJo2TLuGrtO2gir9tduOJTVgwF3ou_WjcP3Hc9M5yKTHtzaBhZpQx0XQl_ECOvRu4q44FTQ/s700/a%2006%20P1510342.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="700" height="438" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZaC19aDIioOrRy3I7wM-4XfxyOGj2Nm16h9AyGDv2B0L1UfW9TcnGDIbt_6LuJNwtJnJyCHdQsmJHDu_sDNLYL7Qu2cuDzVEzOaLO90xXZ0jwe11qERVXuVJo2TLuGrtO2gir9tduOJTVgwF3ou_WjcP3Hc9M5yKTHtzaBhZpQx0XQl_ECOvRu4q44FTQ/w640-h438/a%2006%20P1510342.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div>We drew our swords and evaluated the situation.</div><div><br /></div><div>Two of us were armed with a sword and pistol, Mad Willie had a sword and shield but the lock on his pistol was broken. My companions were both wearing the locally made jack’s but I was slightly better armoured with a metal corselet and steel helmet, we had 4 sheep and a daft dog. Only Dougie can control the dog and even then it’s pretty hit and miss.</div><div><br /></div><div>Across the river two of the Armstrong’s appear to be wearing jack’s and armed with stout spears, the man in the middle has a sword and pistol and is wearing a metal corselet and helm the same as mine.</div><div><br /></div><div>There is a sheep fold on our side of the river with a gate closest to the river. The ford is obviously fordable but with the bad weather will be more difficult than usual, we don’t know how difficult until someone tries to cross it. The river is quite wide at the ford and our pistols are inaccurate unless at close range, about 15 yards, so we can’t stand on the bank and shoot them, well we can but the chance of a hit is non existent.</div><div><br /></div><div>There is a bridge 5 miles down river and another ford 10 miles up stream but both will take us back into Armstrong land. Almost certainly there will be a Hot Trod out, with Armstrong’s trying to discover where their remaining sheep are. They will probably be behind us somewhere and could appear at any minute or not at all. If any of their men across the river escape, they can confirm where the sheep are and bring the Trod here quickly. At this distance they won’t recognise us but as soon as we get within 50 yards of them, our identification is certain, as will be our deaths.</div><div><br /></div><div>If you've any good ideas how to extract ourselves it's too late but thanks for thinking of them.</div>Vagabondhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14031648950206231742noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7655102169795953648.post-41918139201965002172024-01-27T17:53:00.003+00:002024-01-27T17:53:28.550+00:00Yuma Proving Ground Game 3 - AARGame 03 - The Recovery<div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgywIeO6z0PjnVKh76N4lIHj7RHG-H0swcFLJOJQSI10BZ7rTxjNmgu77BuGNy6RgU6jzct4UUKIAumeO6XII76h2JtFyDBpNEdEuWNI5-IUiPGJB7728EpD9oiJ2Q9SMW8eCvs8s2wuirKfIfVNYiOfrrhJ9tW4h70JwDLvXoBH3rN5GRx59x0V4EpZ_vZ/s700/01.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="492" data-original-width="700" height="450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgywIeO6z0PjnVKh76N4lIHj7RHG-H0swcFLJOJQSI10BZ7rTxjNmgu77BuGNy6RgU6jzct4UUKIAumeO6XII76h2JtFyDBpNEdEuWNI5-IUiPGJB7728EpD9oiJ2Q9SMW8eCvs8s2wuirKfIfVNYiOfrrhJ9tW4h70JwDLvXoBH3rN5GRx59x0V4EpZ_vZ/w640-h450/01.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>The Marie Anne pulled alongside the rickety wooden jetty and the passengers breathed a sigh of relief, grateful to have arrived at their destination without any serious mishap. Well if you don’t count the fez toting monkey stealing the Captains hearing aid and dropping it over the side.</div><div><br /></div><div>Hehh, what did you say, can’t hear you, speak up, that was about the limit of the conversation from the man at the wheel until he shouted, loud enough to wake the dead, and God forbid that should actually happen, “we’re here, all ashore who are going ashore”.</div><div><br /></div><div>The monkey, I think his name is Bob took off the fez and held it upside down, “he’s not hoping for a tip is he, muttered Tug, he’ll get a length of my chain round his scrawny neck if he is.”</div><div><br /></div><div>Bob put the fez back on his head.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZgrG8bhcJuaeOeXQWCjKHE1QF-o-jwMEFA_TfZKF1pMpmQi3RqIRg9RN8uSPi5zIrfaPOmTPNEfEV38TGf3t49gGAiQgSy3404FWePQjwHauYYsDm2JXHcBVtfDGgc-iOfH1LLq7xRfZRCDUCpJ32ogi28yrG0nD4mkdVm2woEnhogk8qd6xaoOikGgI7/s700/02.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="435" data-original-width="700" height="398" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZgrG8bhcJuaeOeXQWCjKHE1QF-o-jwMEFA_TfZKF1pMpmQi3RqIRg9RN8uSPi5zIrfaPOmTPNEfEV38TGf3t49gGAiQgSy3404FWePQjwHauYYsDm2JXHcBVtfDGgc-iOfH1LLq7xRfZRCDUCpJ32ogi28yrG0nD4mkdVm2woEnhogk8qd6xaoOikGgI7/w640-h398/02.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Katie had been quiet and withdrawn all the way up the river, she had a good idea of what they might have to face once they were ashore but as the boat hit the jetty with a loud thunk she started to issue instructions.</div><div><br /></div><div>That’s our objective, the small house beyond the fields, you can see it has some blue tarpaulins on the roof. There’s only one room inside, the tin box is buried about 12” down, it’s in the corner opposite the door. One man can carry it quite easily, it only contains a few SD cards, and some paper work but it’s all sealed inside a luxury chocolate biscuit box. Don’t open it, there are no biscuits inside and I don’t want to contaminate the contents or ourselves. There were some very strange things went on here, this was addressed to Big Willie and Tug, they nodded – warily. Ulrika,Tank and Angie were well aware of the danger but kept it to themselves, no good would come of speaking their fears out loud.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcbW7ASBgtrgZL69-mYe3QzAJuDPYFmVwmqZqPI04o3DAbIi-6fCLCT-3xwxKpZz0RcdAYD3CFcFsGCVtOx4foEI_65ujGzGKg_p-nGZBtukv3Pf86Vzo_5y2_Xo6m3SVcoMd4ESLLALvQ8f5csfwqHs-VUnQsL9j9MVg_JqNgUsaP_eVbzlJGu0X4hjAf/s700/03.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="474" data-original-width="700" height="434" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcbW7ASBgtrgZL69-mYe3QzAJuDPYFmVwmqZqPI04o3DAbIi-6fCLCT-3xwxKpZz0RcdAYD3CFcFsGCVtOx4foEI_65ujGzGKg_p-nGZBtukv3Pf86Vzo_5y2_Xo6m3SVcoMd4ESLLALvQ8f5csfwqHs-VUnQsL9j9MVg_JqNgUsaP_eVbzlJGu0X4hjAf/w640-h434/03.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div>Willie (White hair) was leading with Tug and Ulrika following him. Their job was to watch the right flank and Katie (yellow top), Tank and Angie would advance straight towards the objective.</div><div><br /></div><div>We played this game over a video link, the Mad Lord Snapcase controlling the electronic gadgetry from his lair in the bowels of Snapcase Hall. Big Willie, Tug and Ulrika were under his direct control, the other three were mine but his Lordship moved them around on the table but under my strict direction, I didn’t intend being cannon fodder again.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWluI_5a8dIoYtLVjmmXC2Mw8JHFW9jYG7IsBrJfqt8M-hOCS7_Jhwd3KD8h6jt6VdGZL71jZDl4230sVGA2gS1bz-KUA9xNgjBViEi5WejOMof_J3WVY5yLQ87w9wg31THrL9ptgnzSMT8NmWC44b_sRFAHmqtK8yRtDpmHt44Ek6xfdSaGe5qn7GigGC/s700/04.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="438" data-original-width="700" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWluI_5a8dIoYtLVjmmXC2Mw8JHFW9jYG7IsBrJfqt8M-hOCS7_Jhwd3KD8h6jt6VdGZL71jZDl4230sVGA2gS1bz-KUA9xNgjBViEi5WejOMof_J3WVY5yLQ87w9wg31THrL9ptgnzSMT8NmWC44b_sRFAHmqtK8yRtDpmHt44Ek6xfdSaGe5qn7GigGC/w640-h400/04.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div>Once away from the confines of the hill by the river we took up a more open order, cunning as a fox Ulrika was stationed by Snappers on the small hill, just behind Willie and Tug, she was on alert, ready to give covering fire at a moments notice.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheLlLHxYMxIMxMtKjZVAENNrvyuKZafe46dPEWxz4HPbXhMWCVpjtNcYYHYW6ERzhUSssl19DedFWt_0_3eFFwOP0SWODjxbf4l8tqiQ8VLkglHXcjCozhrPHTmEH0wTLeajH8hshxoSNQmi8CqzHnKvnxh4-jC1zR_iZvEWhRRLnXaSf61SQYW7Azn-w-/s700/05.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="467" data-original-width="700" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheLlLHxYMxIMxMtKjZVAENNrvyuKZafe46dPEWxz4HPbXhMWCVpjtNcYYHYW6ERzhUSssl19DedFWt_0_3eFFwOP0SWODjxbf4l8tqiQ8VLkglHXcjCozhrPHTmEH0wTLeajH8hshxoSNQmi8CqzHnKvnxh4-jC1zR_iZvEWhRRLnXaSf61SQYW7Azn-w-/w640-h426/05.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div>And the moment came sooner than expected, because as Big Willie approached the walled compound the sound of baying and howling rent the air as a pack of feral dogs burst into sight. They had been sleeping in shade, hidden from the hot sun but Willie’s heavy foot steps awoke them. Although to be fair Tug was swinging his chain idly around his head, trying to swat the flies. So it could have been the whooshing noise that attracted their attention.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEil2S0ACfig3M-93KmWgd1lXPUQwdGc0heY1hEneWBFzMTHd-Mybf2B18wIPKr_260hMQrmtQfxHolS4QPRchVbmcWGafkOjAhMr3K4SIyE_H3_RQPmvxTr9-wm8_tEUWlfJ-hiq3jdoX8iKGBJ05yqMoLN5i9gC641Uo2_0F-xF3kiUta9s126IBjqdATa/s700/06.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="401" data-original-width="700" height="366" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEil2S0ACfig3M-93KmWgd1lXPUQwdGc0heY1hEneWBFzMTHd-Mybf2B18wIPKr_260hMQrmtQfxHolS4QPRchVbmcWGafkOjAhMr3K4SIyE_H3_RQPmvxTr9-wm8_tEUWlfJ-hiq3jdoX8iKGBJ05yqMoLN5i9gC641Uo2_0F-xF3kiUta9s126IBjqdATa/w640-h366/06.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div>Nice doggy Willie cajoled hopefully, wondering if it would fetch a stick for him, but looking round he couldn’t see any sticks. Shoot the bugger before it bites you, Tug growled, then he issued a stern command to the dog “SIT”.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdX-UYjytFs5GUcAz9_OoxbUxhy7WGAcLZttmsz6RMtrf7zIkoz6GV1IHOf1KuPLtwsJIUjeIeu58xeYa9Uu0APjYXJRgIXP3c2xoifeFFxFzgm8IuHboO5PDkkh3rxbmrJjwU6bf-gS3VGYE5PqLVg-eltp6LWqTy-OohZoiVSrsCeS9r-qKE90wCwwcF/s700/07.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="309" data-original-width="700" height="282" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdX-UYjytFs5GUcAz9_OoxbUxhy7WGAcLZttmsz6RMtrf7zIkoz6GV1IHOf1KuPLtwsJIUjeIeu58xeYa9Uu0APjYXJRgIXP3c2xoifeFFxFzgm8IuHboO5PDkkh3rxbmrJjwU6bf-gS3VGYE5PqLVg-eltp6LWqTy-OohZoiVSrsCeS9r-qKE90wCwwcF/w640-h282/07.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div>Hopefully this dramatic shot shows our predicament, the dogs run like the wind and were soon amongst the Vagabonds, snarling, growling and snapping their teeth, looking for a good meal no doubt.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4nqcRKqH_383FGeyNL6a7xFPhQyLV4XegBKHGGdCFOH8qCP1Hoomn37nO4h8eZoXcCnnCgzPUeKXp6NTfPFce6auzvQC08HTrRS9QWkRNGalm44wPrFNCFRBor3_mSQ7YjogSSv4Svk_MlbuQvWGDhX-pylMCcqttvgUZXbckldtJjVJ7fGDxNULKJgez/s700/08.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="471" data-original-width="700" height="430" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4nqcRKqH_383FGeyNL6a7xFPhQyLV4XegBKHGGdCFOH8qCP1Hoomn37nO4h8eZoXcCnnCgzPUeKXp6NTfPFce6auzvQC08HTrRS9QWkRNGalm44wPrFNCFRBor3_mSQ7YjogSSv4Svk_MlbuQvWGDhX-pylMCcqttvgUZXbckldtJjVJ7fGDxNULKJgez/w640-h430/08.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div>A more prosaic picture to show the overall situation just before everyone opened fire and demonstrated the effectiveness of being “Alert”.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGZTPZzKbMvNFaiyws0_Z_0Yo-UMRM1-5vyS0DeXTN1ah1g-CEFwTEn8GE8HJF0oVjqBLi7IRIy0P4L2zzsAdVPxEw15GDGCnLVVBrK7fI61we-xQxaijP2CpD1-A1K6Qc4sAkVcHwDxeZuUJCKUAxI-iDTU_0_Ay1Bs0W1KFbuLrI8oaG82WEcSnoQgMC/s700/09.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="469" data-original-width="700" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGZTPZzKbMvNFaiyws0_Z_0Yo-UMRM1-5vyS0DeXTN1ah1g-CEFwTEn8GE8HJF0oVjqBLi7IRIy0P4L2zzsAdVPxEw15GDGCnLVVBrK7fI61we-xQxaijP2CpD1-A1K6Qc4sAkVcHwDxeZuUJCKUAxI-iDTU_0_Ay1Bs0W1KFbuLrI8oaG82WEcSnoQgMC/w640-h428/09.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div>Ulrika on the hill opened fire with her sub machine gun and shot two of the hounds, Tank and Katie both took out one each. Angie at the rear was busy trying to avoid hitting Tank and she missed the dog she shot at. Big Willie never liked dogs and he killed one of them with his bare hands, didn’t even blink, although it’s hard to tell behind those dark glasses.</div><div><br /></div><div>The last dog fell to Tug, I told you to “SIT” he muttered. Next time….”OBEY”!</div><div><br /></div><div>Dog training lessons are short, sharp and permanent using the Tug method.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivGEFUsDwSNTghuNSc7KLy_vOF-8UDvG6OKS_jYdYxWsGknM1ynwb0M_1bNna2ztdAQE74Blk7q8BsQyf4Xb7KjCEQu04K1i3n6TYbBZvcAZeStrioGXPODURM-LtLyq8_ohfzjl4appsvYm5ZLEkBY7m-9OZeT4B2TDrK37a5_xq5gagd1gxDxX3NxNPc/s700/10.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="370" data-original-width="700" height="338" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivGEFUsDwSNTghuNSc7KLy_vOF-8UDvG6OKS_jYdYxWsGknM1ynwb0M_1bNna2ztdAQE74Blk7q8BsQyf4Xb7KjCEQu04K1i3n6TYbBZvcAZeStrioGXPODURM-LtLyq8_ohfzjl4appsvYm5ZLEkBY7m-9OZeT4B2TDrK37a5_xq5gagd1gxDxX3NxNPc/w640-h338/10.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div>After the blood bath with the nice doggies the team move forward and take up positions close to the target house with the blue baggage on the roof.</div><div><br /></div><div>Having listened to Bullshott’s advice everyone goes on alert, They aren’t sure if the shooting will have alerted anyone or anything to their presence.</div><div><br /></div><div>The house is quiet, too damn quiet, someone has to move forward and put a toe in the hornets nest. It’s your turn, Big Willie says to Katie, Katie looks at Tank, then Angie and says “This is my call” and she advances cautiously.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgm_yXBbHGRsM3VAGgVHpympDhBrxbbnsUosYmaBrSdZzTXQzvYlxBmjVfVgGys9Qcxv_1trDckjx_EiI88jdiZ7fl8I5d5lRvrcEeLSeocDRRnZRk5sxCSzJMRCt_OLF-6wrqObqvqtCWHvUIOn24Bto7Ge-NcW1uzrRQViThNauFLUVdo8QoQz3XTVwst/s700/11.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="435" data-original-width="700" height="398" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgm_yXBbHGRsM3VAGgVHpympDhBrxbbnsUosYmaBrSdZzTXQzvYlxBmjVfVgGys9Qcxv_1trDckjx_EiI88jdiZ7fl8I5d5lRvrcEeLSeocDRRnZRk5sxCSzJMRCt_OLF-6wrqObqvqtCWHvUIOn24Bto7Ge-NcW1uzrRQViThNauFLUVdo8QoQz3XTVwst/w640-h398/11.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div>Immediately 3 wasteland scum above the parapets, they have been waiting in ambush since the sound of firing woke them from an alcohol induced torpor. Bleary eyed they may be but an ambush is an ambush and they’ll shoot first.</div><div><br /></div><div>On reflection I’m not sure this is the case, I know there’s a section on ambushes but I couldn’t find it in the heat of battle, my memory was; ambushes go first, but Alert interrupts actions. Anyway we let them shoot first.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFW8EpFExaz9BFa2JH4-IfdlDoHi4ziu-JNaP3Qimw_bG3yftXQZhY9qrWb4IdiBFqxXx3ZyZ27PrXHXzWvn2o8mk4F9gG_NjOchytadnmRCgguXxb3rwjczatxnldG9O6QPlu0e0MD5Tb5YWN8Xo1dg9pwbR8UrdZzMkaD2TFioDUVQtr97Mi9yVryaK4/s700/12.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="393" data-original-width="700" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFW8EpFExaz9BFa2JH4-IfdlDoHi4ziu-JNaP3Qimw_bG3yftXQZhY9qrWb4IdiBFqxXx3ZyZ27PrXHXzWvn2o8mk4F9gG_NjOchytadnmRCgguXxb3rwjczatxnldG9O6QPlu0e0MD5Tb5YWN8Xo1dg9pwbR8UrdZzMkaD2TFioDUVQtr97Mi9yVryaK4/w640-h360/12.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div>This is the situation and I only had a poor view of the field when we discussed it. My three characters are on the left Angie far left, Tank in the middle and Katie has moved one action forward. All of them are in the open.</div><div><br /></div><div>Remember what I said about cannon fodder.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg66akxIaz0CZhuWJrmBCbsfmSdcs9UXeycD3qCqQs2fk0u3-lBOhtmnC-h7O9N5ZuRXedf7sYt9ZZeGi0Z5XIeibi_eej01dnUgD98WKhxmBKLIXZiMJhBH4Tgacvo021Vzr31H-2Zc7zp_rWRcYscVR2HYpgu0GBTFQ7uEZR0koF32y9AS6hHvcwzaRJL/s700/13.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="441" data-original-width="700" height="404" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg66akxIaz0CZhuWJrmBCbsfmSdcs9UXeycD3qCqQs2fk0u3-lBOhtmnC-h7O9N5ZuRXedf7sYt9ZZeGi0Z5XIeibi_eej01dnUgD98WKhxmBKLIXZiMJhBH4Tgacvo021Vzr31H-2Zc7zp_rWRcYscVR2HYpgu0GBTFQ7uEZR0koF32y9AS6hHvcwzaRJL/w640-h404/13.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div>His Lordship is a survivor of countless actions in bandit country and has found some very nice cover for his point men with Ulrika having an elevated firing position and a sub machine gun to take best advantage of it.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_rBBV4r6iceyta-huywVHOaR_-tHgniinwolJOAAsRM1WcNzbsZUA1qpkIB9j-CMB1T-JLatjX8VA_aHhu3BAwT4rQCnZEIEfc1M2XO2GWelSIoydxWeGcy3-WnK_fvMZrzL5ZLd_oNQGkNElh6zBpaYITnRkF2n8r60dyG2u4fhZhblh9QFpQ5S108my/s700/14.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="700" height="438" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_rBBV4r6iceyta-huywVHOaR_-tHgniinwolJOAAsRM1WcNzbsZUA1qpkIB9j-CMB1T-JLatjX8VA_aHhu3BAwT4rQCnZEIEfc1M2XO2GWelSIoydxWeGcy3-WnK_fvMZrzL5ZLd_oNQGkNElh6zBpaYITnRkF2n8r60dyG2u4fhZhblh9QFpQ5S108my/w640-h438/14.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div>This punk opened the batting and Angie went down under a hail of bullets.</div><div><br /></div><div>Yes I know he has a flamethrower but I’m still getting to grips with normal shooting without complicating things further.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGOa4WHzJ3sB3cAjRNiC3soPrGGOWV35mZic_mLDUWckSDbpI8L-dxECBfQx2v8bPJCmdi-Os8eVLMmc0p7fcfsO8DlMTC9qPj5pCLbaUoIyW57dyhkZI4mKiF1xOf6g8JXddtWk-hzrphyphenhyphenr5h-Koxc20AIQZNsAE6vVcsmGZ7xkXBJo43Z-JY3oQlJ4rR/s700/15.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="461" data-original-width="700" height="422" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGOa4WHzJ3sB3cAjRNiC3soPrGGOWV35mZic_mLDUWckSDbpI8L-dxECBfQx2v8bPJCmdi-Os8eVLMmc0p7fcfsO8DlMTC9qPj5pCLbaUoIyW57dyhkZI4mKiF1xOf6g8JXddtWk-hzrphyphenhyphenr5h-Koxc20AIQZNsAE6vVcsmGZ7xkXBJo43Z-JY3oQlJ4rR/w640-h422/15.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div>Then Katie was hit with a burst of fire from one of the guy’s further back on the rooftop. The last man thankfully missed but it’s not looking good, two men down and the fight hasn’t really started.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibZfysugLFj3sMxOCQDx5cAtjlJUHQOQ1bQwznBm-lcNCQAS7wAgtXUL7aDohl4JMqY9ebuhAgpWKJTGGGKkSKVP3V3onupGj_GSSSiIaasNSdFVF_FPhN8Dkn1r6jgisLiC2s2xtWWhn2TxFF0P0R9MAEegDGqc3ACineJoF4os0V9DvI2q7FXc-dHGbf/s700/16.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="532" data-original-width="700" height="486" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibZfysugLFj3sMxOCQDx5cAtjlJUHQOQ1bQwznBm-lcNCQAS7wAgtXUL7aDohl4JMqY9ebuhAgpWKJTGGGKkSKVP3V3onupGj_GSSSiIaasNSdFVF_FPhN8Dkn1r6jgisLiC2s2xtWWhn2TxFF0P0R9MAEegDGqc3ACineJoF4os0V9DvI2q7FXc-dHGbf/w640-h486/16.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div>There was a forth man who had been out of sight in the initial deployment but he moved into view (bottom left) and now it’s our turn to fire back.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgq3OY2OKOGE1uMmERX4WBTQnNAaOFMgm6CnfrdGevvJnWtNJxMizWrGwCtqWldMTt3NINCd-N4NyymgqCzRF3W7Ovvw6FqRnEJVRBzATZeTfJFjqzTqDWHWaPTKG8AKPmGzJ7q9Hdl27zybQAnEEiQwoglzclhpnWEklzi1HiLh7aIj-Oe1vob_DNjxOmw/s700/17.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="467" data-original-width="700" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgq3OY2OKOGE1uMmERX4WBTQnNAaOFMgm6CnfrdGevvJnWtNJxMizWrGwCtqWldMTt3NINCd-N4NyymgqCzRF3W7Ovvw6FqRnEJVRBzATZeTfJFjqzTqDWHWaPTKG8AKPmGzJ7q9Hdl27zybQAnEEiQwoglzclhpnWEklzi1HiLh7aIj-Oe1vob_DNjxOmw/w640-h426/17.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div>Big Willie opens fire with his smg and puts 3 rounds into the skull toting Savage, the purple haired one glances over his shoulder seeing his comrade drop. Bugger is all that goes through his mind when he realises that the only way off the roof is down the stairs in full view of Big Willie and his Smg or a long drop.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfh-K7VTRnLGu0gmuy3mB4r1sOa9GoMWEgkvU66dBCeb33saniTre3pVUeoXtjArkK4D3n4CBin9CxvRfbduO9Y0ms7b57PQKs7G1mgZuknpKrse6i8OwRqH1oQJ2gV2dS3wwPb-FZE9S4UElC0NOHd3xTpH9oCd4mlhKhpr6NUrUWj7lWHWmebnChKRFt/s700/18.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="435" data-original-width="700" height="398" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfh-K7VTRnLGu0gmuy3mB4r1sOa9GoMWEgkvU66dBCeb33saniTre3pVUeoXtjArkK4D3n4CBin9CxvRfbduO9Y0ms7b57PQKs7G1mgZuknpKrse6i8OwRqH1oQJ2gV2dS3wwPb-FZE9S4UElC0NOHd3xTpH9oCd4mlhKhpr6NUrUWj7lWHWmebnChKRFt/w640-h398/18.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div>Tank raises his assault rifle and fires, not the rifle but the grenade launcher located below the main barrel of the rifle. There’s a small puff of smoke, followed shortly by an explosion.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpGPkqT1hTUC5TY86kZc01Ia6avhtgt0HEBfKaQAmQNmPxduVglKBGlhJxLgqSfd9c7ekp0cR24JTNwRBABPzG9_7y9gzrrEC5nawvWQfDAA7I9jIILtxawe3HJd0zBsH9h8miuKFHB8Mocgar0ZUlGitaiti7P-RkmHcDdYxs9NsD96QdpQPLxQakXbzG/s700/19.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="525" data-original-width="700" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpGPkqT1hTUC5TY86kZc01Ia6avhtgt0HEBfKaQAmQNmPxduVglKBGlhJxLgqSfd9c7ekp0cR24JTNwRBABPzG9_7y9gzrrEC5nawvWQfDAA7I9jIILtxawe3HJd0zBsH9h8miuKFHB8Mocgar0ZUlGitaiti7P-RkmHcDdYxs9NsD96QdpQPLxQakXbzG/w640-h480/19.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div>A direct hit, this blows the red and black haired Savage clean off the roof and kills both him and the other one hiding behind the wall.</div><div><br /></div><div>See how you like them busted caps Tank shouts. (That's me speaking Merican)</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgW_2bfAZaEXhCZ7OFKluIy3A5-NYALx8LROvy-hqyWgco7DPujdraMBNCfYl4Uws1QoVZRfpDaex2H2dOEX2bADKLSa47mN2Mu6hlmuYzilFnNJK73YbLYuSGPWNSKWWzN_KOHs5bqw242WA00I9vMVuYrOPEew2-YzeZGmNlQBx0cT1hcTvzgMAKBVBYW/s700/20.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="467" data-original-width="700" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgW_2bfAZaEXhCZ7OFKluIy3A5-NYALx8LROvy-hqyWgco7DPujdraMBNCfYl4Uws1QoVZRfpDaex2H2dOEX2bADKLSa47mN2Mu6hlmuYzilFnNJK73YbLYuSGPWNSKWWzN_KOHs5bqw242WA00I9vMVuYrOPEew2-YzeZGmNlQBx0cT1hcTvzgMAKBVBYW/w640-h426/20.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div>Ulrika had the last say, she put a number of rounds into the last wasteland scummer and he went down to join the rest of his unsavoury crew.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0Hng5DHE_uzZdoplvEIhRvWtn_LOBE6iJiYGca3iiiFk0e8j37FaLn0bmal_VcoJyjeU_MfnSToJMlWiRgpFG4kwZTsMLZSihbiWXuY-8ROsu-K9QdB2i30VWm5K9RFXwUCJqu9dkPErkhB8YgT5_vLaJ-0CFn8DrGDhcScuZUpI9B3QDbeRHXbiElJaX/s700/21.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="455" data-original-width="700" height="416" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0Hng5DHE_uzZdoplvEIhRvWtn_LOBE6iJiYGca3iiiFk0e8j37FaLn0bmal_VcoJyjeU_MfnSToJMlWiRgpFG4kwZTsMLZSihbiWXuY-8ROsu-K9QdB2i30VWm5K9RFXwUCJqu9dkPErkhB8YgT5_vLaJ-0CFn8DrGDhcScuZUpI9B3QDbeRHXbiElJaX/w640-h416/21.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div>Tug hadn’t fired in the last exchange of shots, and so he moved forward quickly to the target house. The door was hanging off its hinge’s, I expect the last visitor didn’t have a key, a quick search revealed the biscuit tin buried where Katie said it would be.</div><div><br /></div><div>Rejoining the rest of the team, he was just in time to see Angie and Katie recover from their wounds due to the magical healing quality of medi-kits. Wille was shouting hey look what I’ve found $500 worth of salvage and 2 Red Dot Sights. That’s not so much said Tug as he produced the biscuit tin, then coyly asked, what might this be worth holding out an object. About $750 was Willies reply but what’s that in your pocket.</div><div><br /></div><div>I’m not sure but there was a pulsating blob of something in there and I took this from it. Must be worth something……$5,000 muttered Big Willie who knew about these things.</div><div><br /></div><div>Being careful to avoid triggering any further confrontations the guys retreated as quickly as possible to the boat, the deaf Captain and the fez wearing monkey.</div><div><br /></div><div>Let’s get away from here before anyone comes to investigate the noise Katie commanded and they motored down stream taking turns on the bilge pump as they went, wooden boats are prone to leak and this one leaked like a sieve.</div><div><br /></div><div>Once within phone signal range Katie sent a text to Joe Diamond the Editor of the Global Tribune.</div><div><br /></div><div>“Mission successful, recovered the evidence”. “Only light opposition, a pack of dogs and some looters but nothing to substantiate our previous visit.”</div><div><br /></div><div>Using the mobile phone network to transmit this information was a major mistake, other parties were able to intercept it and initiate action, but that’s for the future.</div><div><br /></div><div>I was hoping they would encounter something abnormal and be able to collect evidence to corroborate their previous visit, Tug’s Anomaly doesn’t really count, antibiotics will clear it up in no time at all. Without substantive evidence of any abnormal activity, there’s nothing to tie the Yuma Proving Ground to the Mojave Facility.</div><div><br /></div><div>Hopefully once the box is opened in a sealed laboratory and we can examine the contents then connections between the two can be established and the story printed.</div><div><br /></div><div>Next stop Canada.</div>Vagabondhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14031648950206231742noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7655102169795953648.post-6652011205859514202023-12-31T18:24:00.000+00:002023-12-31T18:24:03.676+00:00Yuma Proving Ground Game 3 - Background<div>After the incident with Captain Andy Donovan and a shared near death experience, Katie Monk has decided, enough is enough, sod the Government, sod the Global News and sod the consequences, she’s going back to the Mojave where it all began 5 years ago, and he’s going to Canada, following up a new lead.</div><div><br /></div><div>You might wonder what began 5 years ago, well it's a bit complicated because I'm trying to tie together some games I played 5 years ago with this current story line and my head is starting to hurt, anyway this was the background to the previous episode, it may help or probably not.</div><div><br /></div><div><a href="https://vagabondswargamingblog.blogspot.com/2023/09/yuma-proving-ground-game-2-background.html" target="_blank">https://vagabondswargamingblog.blogspot.com/2023/09/yuma-proving-ground-game-2-background.html</a></div><div><br /></div><div>Sorry to ramble a little but I’ve found some nice Shiraz, Mrs V doesn’t drink midweek, and as I believe wine goes off within 6 hours of the cork being drawn I’m having to dispose of it as quickly as possible.</div><div><br /></div><div>The game will be played out over the internet with my friend from Devon, The Mad Lord Snapcase, he will be in his bunker below Snapcase Hall and we'll use his terrain and figures.</div><div><br /></div><div>Katie is making the trip back to the Mojave Dessert and has hired some of her old bodyguards. Some of these have appeared in the story so far and some have not, but if you have the attention span of a goldfish, as I have, it won’t matter who is whom.</div><div><br /></div><div>The Girls.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjK_SY26-_F7RdWvhsiE6WdOxc_NnmvZKqDyXJlosIxvVpR5s3Y-liWfhH5l7o66mAvZqBGE8gf01KCi15ZURkLeblsBE3RzenRta4YWlXkd6ohCtKkEWt7SzbNNlj-kXjOqKfsdmoSnDjM8FNPErPdCKYTEGFRFTe2GX-rl9hkWf5XopBPcF01oezezzZp/s700/a001%20The%20Girls.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="389" data-original-width="700" height="356" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjK_SY26-_F7RdWvhsiE6WdOxc_NnmvZKqDyXJlosIxvVpR5s3Y-liWfhH5l7o66mAvZqBGE8gf01KCi15ZURkLeblsBE3RzenRta4YWlXkd6ohCtKkEWt7SzbNNlj-kXjOqKfsdmoSnDjM8FNPErPdCKYTEGFRFTe2GX-rl9hkWf5XopBPcF01oezezzZp/w640-h356/a001%20The%20Girls.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div>Katie Monk has changed out of her business suit and is impersonating Laura Croft, fit and hard, she’s the one on the left, Angie centre and Ulrika right you’ve already met in the rescue of Alice. These are all the Mad Lords figures and it’s interesting how similar our painting is of the figures. Well similar in colouring in, his are more of an artists standard where as mine are more of your average 10 year old.</div><div><br /></div><div>The Boys</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjT8-Cdb5igijO9pjpnPLO3JXXmkKuqTPBUDj163QncWE4l3BDkm_25F6ztIlW-IRpQhNBOoBLBu7O8divE3N1Pk1mxVFt8Ab0ZzYcGtFoPCpNmGASLXeAkbs7V2xqQAPa29VOkPUtf4IayVQRck3XfswMRDXfDn5GbdWVj0vGO0uQmKZ9hD_d4co_ZDxnD/s700/a002%20The%20Boys.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="323" data-original-width="700" height="296" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjT8-Cdb5igijO9pjpnPLO3JXXmkKuqTPBUDj163QncWE4l3BDkm_25F6ztIlW-IRpQhNBOoBLBu7O8divE3N1Pk1mxVFt8Ab0ZzYcGtFoPCpNmGASLXeAkbs7V2xqQAPa29VOkPUtf4IayVQRck3XfswMRDXfDn5GbdWVj0vGO0uQmKZ9hD_d4co_ZDxnD/w640-h296/a002%20The%20Boys.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div>On the left we have Big Willie Snapcase who is the brother of Fat Willie, Fat Willie couldn’t make it to the Mojave because he gets a nose bleed flying and there wasn’t enough time to drive. Big Willie had an exciting experience down a mine one time when he was 16 and his dark brown hair turned white. He doesn’t talk about it much but if you buy Fat Willie a few beers he might let you in on the secret. Of course it might cost you quite a few beers because the brothers are close, but what else are you going to spend your money on.</div><div><br /></div><div>Tugger Doug in the centre has crisscrossed America driving a big eighteen wheeler but the real reason he's called Tugger, is because a Tugger is someone who pulls a van, in his case a 30’ Airstream the iconic aluminium caravan and probably not what you were thinking.</div><div><br /></div><div>Tank on the right doesn’t suffer from nose bleeds and so flies to joins the expedition carrying Rosie.</div><div><br /></div><div>Rosie in case you were wondering is the whopping big gun he takes everywhere. He doesn’t need a concealed licence to carry Rosie because he would be hard put to conceal her, unless she was in Tuggers Airstream.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglYq4P73nwvnbwrP9-ortRKnjbG8bPUfpKF2w4IpkU_PQp36S2K2oxDeq7C4ZC_je9EUNDSMRqIbUostTygpGMqxW70erl6xQQXZnrwrTJyR5M07zb6CuAJIJiR9JH7aEkJgGcUkokvypy5-8RgAE0h6gW7UjA-W56oFa0uLwMBZwyQ3XZJkrvkVsdDEpD/s700/a003%20post%20Board.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="346" data-original-width="700" height="316" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglYq4P73nwvnbwrP9-ortRKnjbG8bPUfpKF2w4IpkU_PQp36S2K2oxDeq7C4ZC_je9EUNDSMRqIbUostTygpGMqxW70erl6xQQXZnrwrTJyR5M07zb6CuAJIJiR9JH7aEkJgGcUkokvypy5-8RgAE0h6gW7UjA-W56oFa0uLwMBZwyQ3XZJkrvkVsdDEpD/w640-h316/a003%20post%20Board.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>This is their destination, a disused facility in the Mojave that I had the privilege to play over back in 2018 when I visited Snapcase Hall for the second time and this story was conceived. I had to go back a second time to avoid the court case associated with the missing Snapcase silver, we managed to negotiate an equitable settlement. </div><div><br /></div><div>I returned the silver and didn't mention Ms Spankhurst, and certainly not Spankhursts mother who was confined in one of the attic rooms and hadn't been outside in years. The least said about that the better.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxC1pUGEtua0TbCFh6YaQ7pPpl9Tgq8tkMZI1OPOpwS-F0wq50MEjyWeK6dYUqECT0ks-1Wxw35I0tvIHpdkhQFncTE0sRhUeqqWNPulvIHv-85_TZfE_yFLGK04BrQJ9Ym51fv1KtqkS4vZHXKWEvjflEKQvgXfOhKb-flsygRah8oeMeHp9LIHemNqdL/s800/001%20b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="494" data-original-width="800" height="396" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxC1pUGEtua0TbCFh6YaQ7pPpl9Tgq8tkMZI1OPOpwS-F0wq50MEjyWeK6dYUqECT0ks-1Wxw35I0tvIHpdkhQFncTE0sRhUeqqWNPulvIHv-85_TZfE_yFLGK04BrQJ9Ym51fv1KtqkS4vZHXKWEvjflEKQvgXfOhKb-flsygRah8oeMeHp9LIHemNqdL/w640-h396/001%20b.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>The trip up the Mojave River had been uneventful except for sightings of some very strange sea creatures that shouldn’t really have been there but as the Marie Anne docked, Katie Monk’s thoughts went back 5 years, to the story that she would forever think of as “The Scoop”. It started like this.</div><div><br /></div><div><a href="https://vagabondswargamingblog.blogspot.com/2018/11/devlam-in-desert-scoop.html" target="_blank">https://vagabondswargamingblog.blogspot.com/2018/11/devlam-in-desert-scoop.html</a><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>Following this escapade in the desert when Katie and Liam saw things that should not have been possible they were able to escape the area with their lives but not much else. The story was written and posted on my Blog but US Homeland Security stepped in and it was "Taken Down"</div><div><br /></div><div><div>That’s how things have been for 5 years, the only evidence available to the general public was Daisuke story also posted on my Blog. Again the Blog was hacked by US Intelligence Agencies shortly after the post and parts of the story and some of the pictures were redacted. Have a look for yourself if you need verification.</div><div><br /></div><div><a href="https://vagabondswargamingblog.blogspot.com/2018/03/red-sparrow-down.html" target="_blank">https://vagabondswargamingblog.blogspot.com/2018/03/red-sparrow-down.html</a><br /></div><div><br /></div></div><div><br /></div><div>Anyway at one point they thought they wouldn’t make it out alive and so hid all the evidence they had collected in a tin box and left this on site. It’s this tin box that Katie will attempt to recover in the next instalment of The Yuma Proving Ground.</div><div><br /></div><div>After their incursion the Government came down heavily on Joe Diamond and the Global Tribune, with nothing to back up the word of his Reporters there was no story. Security was tightened in the Mojave area and he didn’t authorise a further expedition.</div><div><br /></div><div>In light of the recent events in the Yuma Proving Ground, the Globe’s owner, at the instigation of the State Governor has requested Diamond to resurrect the investigation into the Mojave Forbidden Zone to see if there’s any connection between the two. In addition to this there have been constant rumours of similar Governmental activity around the world, the most notable is in Canada, and Captain Andy Donovan has been despatched north to see if there’s any truth in it.</div><div><br /></div>Vagabondhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14031648950206231742noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7655102169795953648.post-90152017000410325812023-11-02T14:06:00.000+00:002023-11-02T14:06:20.803+00:00The ShrineThe Shrine<div><br /></div><div>There’s a small village in the Nezuko forest on the mainland of Honshu that has an importance out of all relation to its size.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8zlMOThuSY4-mqe2HwE8dYoNS6smlgnCOWCLwAJ842u89jpg4S9Fj_xFqOFVh6RvvB3zMoI2eu3bwI-6k7pvC7D0yLqYPFnefZNWva4qupXqZWa3CIx0V6eB1FntBEmIvnimGCnrvrDpRBGcYF3Xp0btp-zOAg-2kzxk-68KOD7c-XJC8vHDmdSAnu_Qh/s700/01%20P1500877.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="447" data-original-width="700" height="408" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8zlMOThuSY4-mqe2HwE8dYoNS6smlgnCOWCLwAJ842u89jpg4S9Fj_xFqOFVh6RvvB3zMoI2eu3bwI-6k7pvC7D0yLqYPFnefZNWva4qupXqZWa3CIx0V6eB1FntBEmIvnimGCnrvrDpRBGcYF3Xp0btp-zOAg-2kzxk-68KOD7c-XJC8vHDmdSAnu_Qh/w640-h408/01%20P1500877.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>The village only consists of a few dwellings.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgY2oriYYNks-H9_bhWGTP8c7x0t3zV7wNx3kM3OWUXcfU4iQ1fXee5tljCWbJT_woTW6rMT7iQ4RcFGasUdtaMCQbfcG1geoVveDanoaV0-QHTnyx-BpeLf3K-VLrgzq2ygRAxI-MvFRTtsF0UsCMcZxeKlGlsXuVplZ93dWRBTqQdRsCOvWsw3ktCGg2F/s700/02%20P1500879.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="426" data-original-width="700" height="390" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgY2oriYYNks-H9_bhWGTP8c7x0t3zV7wNx3kM3OWUXcfU4iQ1fXee5tljCWbJT_woTW6rMT7iQ4RcFGasUdtaMCQbfcG1geoVveDanoaV0-QHTnyx-BpeLf3K-VLrgzq2ygRAxI-MvFRTtsF0UsCMcZxeKlGlsXuVplZ93dWRBTqQdRsCOvWsw3ktCGg2F/w640-h390/02%20P1500879.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>A substantial store house because in spite of its small size this is a very wealth village.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixcE48PMhRQqD7TV299a9o2R7F1UOM6ZdPKs0jgtlP7xxtl97th4Q3nD6ujT1Mht3-ZS_ZBAkMO2r5vPhTY_qPHVaBqvyMVsgNU9_HKa2PRdigphhPiO2lGbaFwsVT_vTMQ3cLlr1X0zDdg-lcJwTi8WQ_VH3SUaeDFa03Z1B2J1ca9SQ2ReJKufUWuVa9/s700/03%20P1500885.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="512" data-original-width="700" height="468" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixcE48PMhRQqD7TV299a9o2R7F1UOM6ZdPKs0jgtlP7xxtl97th4Q3nD6ujT1Mht3-ZS_ZBAkMO2r5vPhTY_qPHVaBqvyMVsgNU9_HKa2PRdigphhPiO2lGbaFwsVT_vTMQ3cLlr1X0zDdg-lcJwTi8WQ_VH3SUaeDFa03Z1B2J1ca9SQ2ReJKufUWuVa9/w640-h468/03%20P1500885.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>It’s often visited by Holy men who always receive a warm welcome, Kami is explaining to Masatani how she cooks the mid day meal for travellers, as her idle husband Oe looks on, slowly sipping his Saki.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyldDGJ2rS34VvMdjHz6r3rVmrYK9IP9O1LW3N05H2EIvXJhdPG2-g95AROk-5X-PN17DWv_I1k5mLUsD3C55-e_3yTKD1waJWTM8MJb7dVVa9R33DfQPRxi_CtOhZPkH_lZB8wpTcCRlKRbA8_U0fWgoPeMm7sX3kttZVP9RhB7mWa9g-CInRvzstnzlL/s700/04%20P1500880.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="477" data-original-width="700" height="436" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyldDGJ2rS34VvMdjHz6r3rVmrYK9IP9O1LW3N05H2EIvXJhdPG2-g95AROk-5X-PN17DWv_I1k5mLUsD3C55-e_3yTKD1waJWTM8MJb7dVVa9R33DfQPRxi_CtOhZPkH_lZB8wpTcCRlKRbA8_U0fWgoPeMm7sX3kttZVP9RhB7mWa9g-CInRvzstnzlL/w640-h436/04%20P1500880.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Korimi would like to receive the same warm welcome but as he is digging a new latrine for the village he knows that the smell will delay that welcome……a few weeks at least.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrd85yEcBEMDtIqt_a0zJO9YraEQwyZJpUHH58c7uzvpcCgpKLoPcwWfDXRdliC6wKvjQy_dCNKH3TZxD4bO1i5eh98mZn0Rczo_uVWP0PmaVnLMMOYJOSQN2ipkJ0Krh6hmL8_uq5WW3xGR_1_XUkpLvBncyvf5qRtbd77ps6gz6eZ0nQpMffflt8lyEg/s700/05%20P1500886.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="525" data-original-width="700" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrd85yEcBEMDtIqt_a0zJO9YraEQwyZJpUHH58c7uzvpcCgpKLoPcwWfDXRdliC6wKvjQy_dCNKH3TZxD4bO1i5eh98mZn0Rczo_uVWP0PmaVnLMMOYJOSQN2ipkJ0Krh6hmL8_uq5WW3xGR_1_XUkpLvBncyvf5qRtbd77ps6gz6eZ0nQpMffflt8lyEg/w640-h480/05%20P1500886.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Inside one of the houses the local lord Okamoto Ichiro is in deep discussion with Ichi. Ichi often passes as his wife, sometimes his concubine and some time his housekeeper, she is none of these things.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9dCi1kjQOzawAES1BB1OfxSKhv5jA-GBUwltBpG8jpXQbxb24TJIc4rJ7dfvQbeHWqlotUrpRknpIFtsYqSU2HQ-C22i-pBuS2-S62JA8m2hswJ0g8JhiS9537gdFUEOA9SKeVAknt4-UrMzypRN5GaKe-RGEBhAzof-qPO2kdTuup57Ym3ly2yLnexJE/s700/06%20P1500891.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="525" data-original-width="700" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9dCi1kjQOzawAES1BB1OfxSKhv5jA-GBUwltBpG8jpXQbxb24TJIc4rJ7dfvQbeHWqlotUrpRknpIFtsYqSU2HQ-C22i-pBuS2-S62JA8m2hswJ0g8JhiS9537gdFUEOA9SKeVAknt4-UrMzypRN5GaKe-RGEBhAzof-qPO2kdTuup57Ym3ly2yLnexJE/w640-h480/06%20P1500891.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Mate is also preparing food for some of the local workmen, she stands no backchat from these fellows, especially Inori who seems to be waving his weapon rather vigorously in her direction.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNr8imE7Og8pzLPRzK8NkpHdNlT1-Ic-dIv27ZRjbw7vCZFFwcC1YEvPq3JL4jAxqfsbsrGJP5xRdlWFvz0PV43Jz-rEfn-duxIyc3xE3UySBDqXq-8d9L0CosrQhcrtSt_bTuT9cclDLrWBzg3H8WvrhpOiHhzB-ODmr39mGJhNKZyV_jYHx2dllrre2k/s700/07%20P1500884.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="350" data-original-width="700" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNr8imE7Og8pzLPRzK8NkpHdNlT1-Ic-dIv27ZRjbw7vCZFFwcC1YEvPq3JL4jAxqfsbsrGJP5xRdlWFvz0PV43Jz-rEfn-duxIyc3xE3UySBDqXq-8d9L0CosrQhcrtSt_bTuT9cclDLrWBzg3H8WvrhpOiHhzB-ODmr39mGJhNKZyV_jYHx2dllrre2k/w640-h320/07%20P1500884.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>The village wealth is based on a shrine to one of the forest gods, the shrine is guarded night and day by well armed men.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMyRSA4RGyKVkK3fk6UNNuko0S_Lw-EzQBJ4dWbVEIq8aE_Xt5KyugVKNjS0a-NMGQmQXiVxqU9mAOr-Nb8D0Wlun4toCVWULAm1ICwjX-SlmRKzzPo0iV3ZfZGH8b6tHZcsdVaIbNRlVmToJJjJeYQFee2e1GKLAIaDtJJwVuiC0WGbgd5YQ08REzcM_R/s700/08%20P1500873.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="506" data-original-width="700" height="462" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMyRSA4RGyKVkK3fk6UNNuko0S_Lw-EzQBJ4dWbVEIq8aE_Xt5KyugVKNjS0a-NMGQmQXiVxqU9mAOr-Nb8D0Wlun4toCVWULAm1ICwjX-SlmRKzzPo0iV3ZfZGH8b6tHZcsdVaIbNRlVmToJJjJeYQFee2e1GKLAIaDtJJwVuiC0WGbgd5YQ08REzcM_R/w640-h462/08%20P1500873.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>As you can see the village is only small but as I explained very wealthy.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSvloIiF20EwUNf8qfknr2V3-oZm3IBE_a-FZ_3fK7xy84Y1SvY3VS98SjeFJ1IPNP3VRapS9PzFG1O9IbSZfcTuopSa8es41Wqj2jTpwymQxUH1gmNqIYYLG6Xe-pXGInOr8syiHyX5tFYOVzc9989SGmT2mdQk2Wy4WyYq1JDnN9pLbtfZQ1so8dwJZJ/s700/09%20P1500872.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="508" data-original-width="700" height="464" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSvloIiF20EwUNf8qfknr2V3-oZm3IBE_a-FZ_3fK7xy84Y1SvY3VS98SjeFJ1IPNP3VRapS9PzFG1O9IbSZfcTuopSa8es41Wqj2jTpwymQxUH1gmNqIYYLG6Xe-pXGInOr8syiHyX5tFYOVzc9989SGmT2mdQk2Wy4WyYq1JDnN9pLbtfZQ1so8dwJZJ/w640-h464/09%20P1500872.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>If it wasn’t for the armed men guarding the shrine and Inori’s men guarding the entrance to the village you might think it was ripe for a bold man to enter and remove the wealth without too much effort.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgln9Td3xwp57v5SEl3STYXSsYXfVbAm59jDGQVx4ohFeVboNe5z0MBCZlerSaw4fdFlBtSG2e0qfF84m_yQgJdRqvLNIm9YOiWbUAE2jpSgMEMoYBwjdD0uOudL4dwzp8sxAgAEBppKh625sfnL08jeAc4fcVz2vwTqwamEYFhjuLaq8o4HzZx9zN8ZaMr/s700/10%20P1500887.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="525" data-original-width="700" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgln9Td3xwp57v5SEl3STYXSsYXfVbAm59jDGQVx4ohFeVboNe5z0MBCZlerSaw4fdFlBtSG2e0qfF84m_yQgJdRqvLNIm9YOiWbUAE2jpSgMEMoYBwjdD0uOudL4dwzp8sxAgAEBppKh625sfnL08jeAc4fcVz2vwTqwamEYFhjuLaq8o4HzZx9zN8ZaMr/w640-h480/10%20P1500887.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>But you would be wrong, not having counted on the seriously scary Sorcerer Yoshifumi Susomi who lives in another of the houses with his Geisha friend Chiyo.</div><div><br /></div><div>You might also be wondering how, if there are only 3 houses where the rest of the inhabitants sleep.</div><div><br /></div><div>Well you’ve heard of hot bedding in modern day Tokyo, this village is where the concept was devised.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaIl51VmN77DHMxZatVDWR76j1qgJUpPkRtb4EFbJeESkdhLkmhPVb26rH7JcRyLiY2Q-LDgRVRb1L-TjdSlWlB-EmwbP_ml-4Mimu_DpGUQmhh98jFKFgdI-1Er-8jFfX-EH54-EUwx7ljlJshl6QIJPKe1eOcHQCOQ8pyxb-lmSJRo222jAegc2FL5Pe/s700/11%20P1500894.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="449" data-original-width="700" height="410" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaIl51VmN77DHMxZatVDWR76j1qgJUpPkRtb4EFbJeESkdhLkmhPVb26rH7JcRyLiY2Q-LDgRVRb1L-TjdSlWlB-EmwbP_ml-4Mimu_DpGUQmhh98jFKFgdI-1Er-8jFfX-EH54-EUwx7ljlJshl6QIJPKe1eOcHQCOQ8pyxb-lmSJRo222jAegc2FL5Pe/w640-h410/11%20P1500894.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Hirano Nagayasu has heard of the Sorcerer Yoshifumi Susomi, tall tales don’t scare him, but wealth does attract him, so he’s decided to pay the village a visit and see which of the stories is true.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiQVRLgAVQXN54Hp2UI2elo1hOAWTxI2Cyqzpm7IhJXJsq2KqQqm1Rg06CWCFUF-fkqBTzC2voEVC36PZsr8uxMqqN6Sm9UcQRn6r5DQDJ_OvRcHtpxCwLc_QeJm3-461i4xjFwv8cMAUDWKCcm6bh4Of7_5cJn8bJT6F7dyvDR6-SwxEUpFxSGUprWzTW/s700/12%20P1500895.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="452" data-original-width="700" height="414" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiQVRLgAVQXN54Hp2UI2elo1hOAWTxI2Cyqzpm7IhJXJsq2KqQqm1Rg06CWCFUF-fkqBTzC2voEVC36PZsr8uxMqqN6Sm9UcQRn6r5DQDJ_OvRcHtpxCwLc_QeJm3-461i4xjFwv8cMAUDWKCcm6bh4Of7_5cJn8bJT6F7dyvDR6-SwxEUpFxSGUprWzTW/w640-h414/12%20P1500895.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Two guards approach Hirano to see if he is friend or foe.</div><div><br /></div><div>Kill them Hirano instructs his two most proficient retainers Katsua Takenori and Katagiri Katsumoto.</div><div><br /></div><div>So that would be foe then!</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLxqqw5-cbj2NtnAHEoqHDS_2Z3dah4cliMIuFUnxYC9AKAoDOzMEN08IRjbX-I_36bwhLzHGGjft02WaXw7GTzz7cakLx9yBFplpU2TBBqU7REQTCG82gZyDVZMvOP85qK6vH95MGPku7q9q2k9qnxeFbvs9jLlkBdTF2NCjCQn-Dp4EqV5GeLb0RQbXa/s700/13%20P1500897.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="397" data-original-width="700" height="362" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLxqqw5-cbj2NtnAHEoqHDS_2Z3dah4cliMIuFUnxYC9AKAoDOzMEN08IRjbX-I_36bwhLzHGGjft02WaXw7GTzz7cakLx9yBFplpU2TBBqU7REQTCG82gZyDVZMvOP85qK6vH95MGPku7q9q2k9qnxeFbvs9jLlkBdTF2NCjCQn-Dp4EqV5GeLb0RQbXa/w640-h362/13%20P1500897.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>The fight goes back and forth, well it’s just back for the guards and forth for the retainers. Kazu is pushed back into an obstacle and is cut down unceremoniously by Katagiri but the other guard puts up a spirited fight. Fighting desperately for his life Shoji retreats back and back, parrying each cut and thrust but he’s in dire straits.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNC2N0LH4P17RxlIy7LKTvUP-QKOofUvUSy3JZssGoiRzTudhGaxZRSTMJemCRDi1WaBrjEHE4475ujuJKmfjDs7FVTNeMJbljVrhnZRF_Suvwpm92pggE9eoEtofp9cJIGp9LIVZ_0yu5pahUGIqEbUsiOqlXHiYTImp7wD6XBN7NzTtDDVirhbTtqksM/s700/14%20P1500898.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="525" data-original-width="700" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNC2N0LH4P17RxlIy7LKTvUP-QKOofUvUSy3JZssGoiRzTudhGaxZRSTMJemCRDi1WaBrjEHE4475ujuJKmfjDs7FVTNeMJbljVrhnZRF_Suvwpm92pggE9eoEtofp9cJIGp9LIVZ_0yu5pahUGIqEbUsiOqlXHiYTImp7wD6XBN7NzTtDDVirhbTtqksM/w640-h480/14%20P1500898.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>The noise from the fight has alerted everyone else in the village, there is confusion amongst the inhabitants. Inori the commander of the village guard sees his men fighting for their lives and wonders how he can avoid joining in.</div><div><br /></div><div>The two Samurai guarding the shrine believe their duty is to stay at their post come what may, and so don’t move forward.</div><div><br /></div><div>Okamoto Ichiro and Ichi come out to see what is going on, Hirano rushes forward to attack Okamoto who is obviously a man of wealth and position, someone whom he can engage in combat as an equal. Hidemoto sees Ichi take up a fighting stance and flap her fan in his direction. This confuses Hidemoto, she should run away but shows no sign of doing so.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJOp1JkW9lpaJFj_QTixSwRfk5bdyFBvDIZJy0MnhZ1Mon4tRTVhVC08ACj-TCExjCpYsT_-6FhtKrj36Rloq_MQbIXgi9PClO8wOC23D14nqNcBGjR_j0jr2WiyBFPBX_fnLPNzKqK19vneuu_kjBiFNoFaluBrInkFmbbM7pJB6HREvDbM6JNuKLki0O/s700/15%20P1500899.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="525" data-original-width="700" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJOp1JkW9lpaJFj_QTixSwRfk5bdyFBvDIZJy0MnhZ1Mon4tRTVhVC08ACj-TCExjCpYsT_-6FhtKrj36Rloq_MQbIXgi9PClO8wOC23D14nqNcBGjR_j0jr2WiyBFPBX_fnLPNzKqK19vneuu_kjBiFNoFaluBrInkFmbbM7pJB6HREvDbM6JNuKLki0O/w640-h480/15%20P1500899.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>As Hirano tests Okamoto Ichiro’s defence he realises he is the superior swordsman, however he hasn’t remained alive in these troubled times by being rash. One fatal cut is all it takes for a man to die and he doesn’t intend it to be him, not today.</div><div><br /></div><div>Ichi appears to be in trouble, she has fallen back before the pick on a stick that Hidemoto is wielding, but she retains her confidence that her training will help her beat the crude fighting style of the man she is facing.</div><div><br /></div><div>Hirano’s retainers want to help their Lord but know if he perceives they have impugned his honour by implying he needs help, there will be consequences.</div><div><br /></div><div>Consequences they don’t want to risk.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjt-0L5jb6BInFbHRg85gMuVafAu2G57KcighjbfFUhOGJUiJe0DEe3mTmluZeeM0_9MzECph_c_jS-lhqJ1SNnQljN1LQamtZdu_Yqd6Wd7Md3fgHYJw9izJ4AEHHMNzgi3rCZKsWQs3yWjd1pONnoKgEW7E_lERVh2Nl5YRKSjJQicgWI0jNgv3ulArDi/s700/16%20P1500901.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="484" data-original-width="700" height="442" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjt-0L5jb6BInFbHRg85gMuVafAu2G57KcighjbfFUhOGJUiJe0DEe3mTmluZeeM0_9MzECph_c_jS-lhqJ1SNnQljN1LQamtZdu_Yqd6Wd7Md3fgHYJw9izJ4AEHHMNzgi3rCZKsWQs3yWjd1pONnoKgEW7E_lERVh2Nl5YRKSjJQicgWI0jNgv3ulArDi/w640-h442/16%20P1500901.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Swift as a striking snake Hirano slices through Okamoto’s leg and then plunges his katana into his chest. There is some smug satisfaction in knowing he was right. Okamoto’s defence was suspect.</div><div><br /></div><div>Hidemoto is starting to be worried, his initial success against this frail woman has failed to end the fight and even with the help of Suma she is holding them back. Worse than that, she isn’t even slightly out of breath and he’s panting like a dog on heat.</div><div><br /></div><div>Having killed the guard, Katagiri has rushed along the street towards the shrine, he hopes to be the first to fight the Samurai there. This will bring him great renown and he hopes reward from his Lord. He’s a rash young man with no caution, this might be his undoing.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWQyC6r3WKR6Qsdn_Zx96WNrk3TKNqyjg2sG5vXdcZwSOkNqMbMTERwkzenzIIXTyk8HMaUtfcMvQekGSkongBT8DCPnlZgBJ4knhTdUDObHCyyOQaDUTmgq-A3URESkZw7Uk9r6PLS72rQ-44MZ7LeRC5n06Mnhyphenhyphen2Ljmyv5APWjScx_f-dPqy2GeKMz2h/s700/17%20P1500902.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="531" data-original-width="700" height="486" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWQyC6r3WKR6Qsdn_Zx96WNrk3TKNqyjg2sG5vXdcZwSOkNqMbMTERwkzenzIIXTyk8HMaUtfcMvQekGSkongBT8DCPnlZgBJ4knhTdUDObHCyyOQaDUTmgq-A3URESkZw7Uk9r6PLS72rQ-44MZ7LeRC5n06Mnhyphenhyphen2Ljmyv5APWjScx_f-dPqy2GeKMz2h/w640-h486/17%20P1500902.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>A close up of Ichi, her fan is edged with sharpened steel blades. Centuries later a Birmingham gang called the Peaky Blinders would steal her ideas.</div><div><br /></div><div>In the background the Sorcerer Yoshifumi Susomi has also emerged from a small house close to the shrine. He chants a spell of summoning. The chant reaches a crescendo, light flashes all around him and a pale green spectre appears above his head. He has summoned a Wraith.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgH95F4j7_R1JBhaKzZg4-6uNklHZd9ogoPYNyOesRiJ0gJl27UGExqC_8usUCBF0Bgh5KitbmYhOVwzlnlxcXLeGEhVDwdUEamyhJfBBt_bN3dpJNpBMoZpQTK9EY1eC2Qt-0YbgmJzaUvU-DoLTQooingMj7ZAtascZZJYJRSKE64KDIfVRKt_qPPUPsO/s700/18%20P1500904.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="443" data-original-width="700" height="406" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgH95F4j7_R1JBhaKzZg4-6uNklHZd9ogoPYNyOesRiJ0gJl27UGExqC_8usUCBF0Bgh5KitbmYhOVwzlnlxcXLeGEhVDwdUEamyhJfBBt_bN3dpJNpBMoZpQTK9EY1eC2Qt-0YbgmJzaUvU-DoLTQooingMj7ZAtascZZJYJRSKE64KDIfVRKt_qPPUPsO/w640-h406/18%20P1500904.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Everyone reacts to the Wraith.</div><div><br /></div><div>It turns out it’s not as scary as I thought it would be.</div><div><br /></div><div>Kami shouts to her child playing in the street to get inside the house, and together they go into the building, followed very closely by Masatani. He reasons that a religious man shouldn’t get involved in street fighting, it is far beneath his dignity, besides that Wraith is a bit worrying.</div><div><br /></div><div>Most of the characters involved in the story just take it in their stride. I’m a little disappointed by this response, I had great hopes of the figure.</div><div><br /></div><div>Yoshifumi Susomi is exhausted by the summoning and can’t find the energy to direct it to attack anyone.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihTNJk0VSKtZqTiqLvtZASEC54Rsi3g006y5n-Rmq-yzf49lIGbCoMIVAZV7zf5cTwa67Rk_v_6ne1yttM98BaQDycRNB9CSwqs5wqUkj1EqYYRTk-XPY170wXq8l3GzEjbAqdLlwzDuAGhvac96tLuVRC5-Kh3PnwfBxJaMWp96pQSTerNKHLFmh2ySlK/s700/19%20P1500906.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="497" data-original-width="700" height="454" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihTNJk0VSKtZqTiqLvtZASEC54Rsi3g006y5n-Rmq-yzf49lIGbCoMIVAZV7zf5cTwa67Rk_v_6ne1yttM98BaQDycRNB9CSwqs5wqUkj1EqYYRTk-XPY170wXq8l3GzEjbAqdLlwzDuAGhvac96tLuVRC5-Kh3PnwfBxJaMWp96pQSTerNKHLFmh2ySlK/w640-h454/19%20P1500906.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Hirano wanted to engage the Sorcerer in combat but he too is exhausted from his combat with Okamoto and can’t jog fast enough. He could have tried to run but that’s beneath his dignity.</div><div><br /></div><div>Katagiri as I’ve said, is young and foolish, so he charges straight into combat with the Sorcerer. Yoshifumi fights back but the summoning has exhausted him and very quickly Katagiri’s steel finds an opening in his soft flesh and he falls beneath the blade of the proficient swordsman. As soon as the last breath leaves his body his summoning disappears back into the void and the whole raison d’etre for the game is gone.</div><div><br /></div><div>Finally one of the guards from the shrine charges forward and attacks Hirano, the other one still maintains his vigil.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5mjQSrWoc18dGK_PW0XIn10EQzE1Yp3Q4U4Fq3wdg2OJYiwMe-ZR1-s5XepmKceIRODfDDj6tKK9Ho4z_vRoKdRYoth2blaoZ2agCunxq4EuvMYVqT3eE28q7ddXUtw2ke1K5b2lSNFeac3hdxFlJL7Dxk1G5_XRAvgSqgt-ACsLrQt0hslYO8mViwfor/s700/20%20P1500907.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="465" data-original-width="700" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5mjQSrWoc18dGK_PW0XIn10EQzE1Yp3Q4U4Fq3wdg2OJYiwMe-ZR1-s5XepmKceIRODfDDj6tKK9Ho4z_vRoKdRYoth2blaoZ2agCunxq4EuvMYVqT3eE28q7ddXUtw2ke1K5b2lSNFeac3hdxFlJL7Dxk1G5_XRAvgSqgt-ACsLrQt0hslYO8mViwfor/w640-h426/20%20P1500907.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Seeing his paymaster killed and hearing the Wraith’s demonic scream as his Summoner is cut down, Inori decides he might as well find other employment and he and the last remaining gate guard leave the area.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrvHkfPvhsgKcTLAOatPaMk8PD8FTDTXTUcYWfPeGMeBNtVzlP3PQd225dWStW7f-88noEKTYFo7jEM066vRIEZPNEwOVAs84-y_iJsi_5-7HsADBdpV28jHIpH4PboGon5b4DAGgaLqjEBF7UX-yMn4IkyOa-Cpg7zj59mqWWRco8xEeijQGQhnRJbR-d/s700/21%20P1500908.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="489" data-original-width="700" height="448" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrvHkfPvhsgKcTLAOatPaMk8PD8FTDTXTUcYWfPeGMeBNtVzlP3PQd225dWStW7f-88noEKTYFo7jEM066vRIEZPNEwOVAs84-y_iJsi_5-7HsADBdpV28jHIpH4PboGon5b4DAGgaLqjEBF7UX-yMn4IkyOa-Cpg7zj59mqWWRco8xEeijQGQhnRJbR-d/w640-h448/21%20P1500908.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>After a combat that has taken forever to resolve, Shoje is finally cut down. Korimi the latrine cutter looks on in dismay but wisely decides not to intervene.</div><div><br /></div><div>I think there might be some problem with my understanding of the laws of probability because although I’m trying to get some ebb and flow in a sword fight this one went on for about 6 turns with 2 rounds per turn, At one point Katsua was rolling 11 dice against Shoje’s 2 and still he refused to be defeated.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEje8brlUGI65H-wzB4J9iuORotO01hYP7lkPMUYmZGFzCNbcwByRt6OlCNSYAQXDSzzT7sJKev-FqrYkaHrHsOom0IsFNLh_D5WVFhIQzRLtVdS2OX-85JuLIFPEyDqpPLLITcaQr_r-_7AFvJrVwJvagP0FeZIAMjRqMegl_JharqucWvCeH7PlZKXB1zI/s700/22%20P1500912.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="525" data-original-width="700" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEje8brlUGI65H-wzB4J9iuORotO01hYP7lkPMUYmZGFzCNbcwByRt6OlCNSYAQXDSzzT7sJKev-FqrYkaHrHsOom0IsFNLh_D5WVFhIQzRLtVdS2OX-85JuLIFPEyDqpPLLITcaQr_r-_7AFvJrVwJvagP0FeZIAMjRqMegl_JharqucWvCeH7PlZKXB1zI/w640-h480/22%20P1500912.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>There’s a time when honour becomes secondary to survival and Hirano realizes that Kobiyashi the guard is a very proficient swordsman but he has the added advantage of wearing full armour. He is happy to allow his two retainers to assist him in defeating this opponent.</div><div><br /></div><div>Meanwhile Ichi has finally got into her stride and is forcing her opponents to retreat before her ferocious attacks.</div><div><br /></div><div>The small child in the street seems to have been forgotten in the excitement of the contact.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEha9w-9WClAnAfK91UX7xE48kKvHe5x63ob4kkVN3DC3BaPyAhTUEVQxaeunHxLrfkiB6GVnbFDj-9dLeJdZVdlI2XUxbnATAoZMXrTVDgSIonbDCZ2TVO9hvVpRf8WXW-PAV0wib3L9WGgYL6_k6vaXBe1Sm-6mfp46ef-A2cDq90zetPLCS2s18f5VFd4/s700/23%20P1500913.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="462" data-original-width="700" height="422" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEha9w-9WClAnAfK91UX7xE48kKvHe5x63ob4kkVN3DC3BaPyAhTUEVQxaeunHxLrfkiB6GVnbFDj-9dLeJdZVdlI2XUxbnATAoZMXrTVDgSIonbDCZ2TVO9hvVpRf8WXW-PAV0wib3L9WGgYL6_k6vaXBe1Sm-6mfp46ef-A2cDq90zetPLCS2s18f5VFd4/w640-h422/23%20P1500913.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Kobiyashi is slowly loosing ground to the combined attacks of 3 opponents and his armour is taking quite a beating from their attacks. Hirano shouts above the din of combat and offers Kobiyashi quarter but he disdainfully refuses.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYauEx2pWaIkN2OjiSmgNIyTk43IFspQQg918_gkOwGpzKE8nbKWmOcKeVXCZPt2EbBAT2BDviNEUgmXSGNq1JiJ9Y1WYLihOtwuT_oU35t_wDCFf165hV3DrZTBNo0nebCwOTZ_SCVv6yqtbmYN3Ni09MdU1xDdGWo49hSqwRmp2-fB9kKxXVTj6PMixo/s700/24%20P1500914.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="451" data-original-width="700" height="412" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYauEx2pWaIkN2OjiSmgNIyTk43IFspQQg918_gkOwGpzKE8nbKWmOcKeVXCZPt2EbBAT2BDviNEUgmXSGNq1JiJ9Y1WYLihOtwuT_oU35t_wDCFf165hV3DrZTBNo0nebCwOTZ_SCVv6yqtbmYN3Ni09MdU1xDdGWo49hSqwRmp2-fB9kKxXVTj6PMixo/w640-h412/24%20P1500914.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Try as she might Ichi can’t seem to land a killing blow and she is getting tired fighting two opponents.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9LuSlloQlxRKgAOXIVFtEbLVaZOdGx4MTg3-rxhjBuFS9EKt3tTTmAS8-p7fMpj8cLk9_aPte20B-elbUVKBgao7jwhEtDKhYF7r7NeEVlrjQHjMKMIwH7s_ChiK1XJFtBknT246g4hK2xMqXRhqkupMLOsAUpUOf_M7BhuP-fXPNdzGu1rI3fUlTb09O/s700/25%20P1500915.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="407" data-original-width="700" height="372" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9LuSlloQlxRKgAOXIVFtEbLVaZOdGx4MTg3-rxhjBuFS9EKt3tTTmAS8-p7fMpj8cLk9_aPte20B-elbUVKBgao7jwhEtDKhYF7r7NeEVlrjQHjMKMIwH7s_ChiK1XJFtBknT246g4hK2xMqXRhqkupMLOsAUpUOf_M7BhuP-fXPNdzGu1rI3fUlTb09O/w640-h372/25%20P1500915.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>The other guard Shida Takeshi decides that he should support Kobiyashi and he runs forward….slowly, but is met by Tada Zumi and Katsun Takenori. Katsun has run all the way from the village entrance after finally despatching the guard there. Together they make short work of Shida.</div><div><br /></div><div>Yet again Hirano offers Kobiyashi quarter and this time with the odds so against him, he accepts.</div><div><br /></div><div>He knows this will not enhance his reputation and employment with a new lord might be had to find, he contemplates his future mournfully.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgH8UeLfISjSLs_sYppDvSHKXty1b3a83rN47nz3i5X1YJx703oe1Yq4hFZnk0PsscbbZwhwadFkrMlUjXeI5lGhSVqtvzpVhwmO6woT-oiotsdsvdr9800VzvlIOqnRnM9pqYYOzbeRKevHHtkDnoZ9HmMqT0rMrmCdp_ly1U_6nefX5ySeuJhlm4baySa/s700/26%20P1500916.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="468" data-original-width="700" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgH8UeLfISjSLs_sYppDvSHKXty1b3a83rN47nz3i5X1YJx703oe1Yq4hFZnk0PsscbbZwhwadFkrMlUjXeI5lGhSVqtvzpVhwmO6woT-oiotsdsvdr9800VzvlIOqnRnM9pqYYOzbeRKevHHtkDnoZ9HmMqT0rMrmCdp_ly1U_6nefX5ySeuJhlm4baySa/w640-h428/26%20P1500916.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Ichi might have been tiring but with a flurry of blows she finally cuts down her two opponents and as Katsua runs towards her she decides discretion is always the better part of valour and quickly runs away.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdY2Y5RpN-oWv2NOuHElStrZfVeak4HJ3TqASPmNaH9jgZPO8dR299TmUAEFZVLlwtBKQjJWRgMwKVR4jCK3hD9nDqCOD0xU5vZjvtX-W9-d0-kJcr2UVAeZW9TzkoGuMAgj0f2kftD5i3YUH4fO2zwHh_t71TK7CYYGp3-O3_2iBj2PIpMTnEi-nWI6oP/s700/27%20P1500920.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="458" data-original-width="700" height="418" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdY2Y5RpN-oWv2NOuHElStrZfVeak4HJ3TqASPmNaH9jgZPO8dR299TmUAEFZVLlwtBKQjJWRgMwKVR4jCK3hD9nDqCOD0xU5vZjvtX-W9-d0-kJcr2UVAeZW9TzkoGuMAgj0f2kftD5i3YUH4fO2zwHh_t71TK7CYYGp3-O3_2iBj2PIpMTnEi-nWI6oP/w640-h418/27%20P1500920.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>With her lipstick slightly smeared she makes her way out of the village, the only question now is; how will she get her revenge?</div><div><br /></div><div>Well the other question is; will Hirano find the treasure in the shrine?</div><div><br /></div><div>And I suppose a final question is; will he escape with the treasure if he finds it and if Ichi doesn’t get her revenge?</div><div><br /></div><div>I guess there is the question of; who is Ichi?</div><div><br /></div><div>You might have some other questions as well but these should keep me busy planning my next game.</div><div><br /></div><div>Which of course will be something completely different.</div><div><br /> <br /><br /> </div>Vagabondhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14031648950206231742noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7655102169795953648.post-32235627021337821342023-10-19T20:54:00.000+01:002023-10-19T20:54:00.154+01:00Jayhawkers<div>Winter is coming to the mid west of America and in a small woodland clearing, stands an even smaller cabin, one might call it a homestead but only if one was being very charitable.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLbOQaA53eEfhqXfnpK29EaOlbIHF6Fa12rp9g8wLCT9Ck8lWEznRNv9DuaRJbcfnVt3qrP_yQOYptkMRvdF08a033SNK4_zlDpTqhO-I42gUDyc05GYxIuQnJuOtxI3GQCtDt1C7-f7vPssYsM-dz2-ZlEgANtceVp3ItChisQbBKHf0HlGQR3gUl8GVl/s700/01%20P1510017.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="452" data-original-width="700" height="414" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLbOQaA53eEfhqXfnpK29EaOlbIHF6Fa12rp9g8wLCT9Ck8lWEznRNv9DuaRJbcfnVt3qrP_yQOYptkMRvdF08a033SNK4_zlDpTqhO-I42gUDyc05GYxIuQnJuOtxI3GQCtDt1C7-f7vPssYsM-dz2-ZlEgANtceVp3ItChisQbBKHf0HlGQR3gUl8GVl/w640-h414/01%20P1510017.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>The cabin is surrounded by small fenced areas, mainly containing animals or crops to feed them. The occupier is hoping they will see them through the winter but who knows, they’ve never done this before.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizEqXmEmncJvl4GZxjXyZrnmDCrXRk4zyBRLWRcDZj5TlnfHdFutBHXvWI6FfwiacA5iNLwu8WJf1Wisc30MB6jn4Ue2Wu_AA1L9oIDZArbIWdSELCt8cc5sbejP7gsJH_5UU4PlpcSFioS0xruQK34uV0xWr16iFoIrSBIfOs3ep_thY1AqOAC7_WVZkC/s700/02%20P1510025.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="525" data-original-width="700" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizEqXmEmncJvl4GZxjXyZrnmDCrXRk4zyBRLWRcDZj5TlnfHdFutBHXvWI6FfwiacA5iNLwu8WJf1Wisc30MB6jn4Ue2Wu_AA1L9oIDZArbIWdSELCt8cc5sbejP7gsJH_5UU4PlpcSFioS0xruQK34uV0xWr16iFoIrSBIfOs3ep_thY1AqOAC7_WVZkC/w640-h480/02%20P1510025.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>The log pile is huge but there’s still plenty of work to do, storing the produce that’s been accumulated for the coming snows.</div><div><br /></div><div>The cabin is a solid affair; whoever built it knew their stuff. Big thick logs will provide protection, although there is the small question as to why there’s no chimney for the stove……maybe because there’s no stove!!</div><div><br /></div><div>Why any one would leave their horse saddled is also a bit of a mystery, either they are very insensitive to the animals welfare or they are very wary about needing a quick getaway.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5t_Zy6ZwlhzYueb5rtZ-vtChxZKHx4DhR2QjhpjbNCtr9U62Jhpz3eraVewmRAD6dsVj6wkpbRqJOaz_m3PXmevq3b6nAUBsGtePbaw0V7SSD10347lc7Gf5mUIX-MpyyapKw-OALNOouR-tuNwCiS8XO8pnliqm3uGbmqvlBJRB1yZOv87QpsuCSaZ_x/s700/03%20P1510019.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="525" data-original-width="700" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5t_Zy6ZwlhzYueb5rtZ-vtChxZKHx4DhR2QjhpjbNCtr9U62Jhpz3eraVewmRAD6dsVj6wkpbRqJOaz_m3PXmevq3b6nAUBsGtePbaw0V7SSD10347lc7Gf5mUIX-MpyyapKw-OALNOouR-tuNwCiS8XO8pnliqm3uGbmqvlBJRB1yZOv87QpsuCSaZ_x/w640-h480/03%20P1510019.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>The coral is full of cattle, presumably beef jerky is on the winter agenda, should you look closer you might notice that none of the cattle have the same brand, which might explain the saddled horse!</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzHCd_RRzJ6d2bh1427TNBoGTtV5Qizronf68h2ZChBZBTXjqTmr5xK_j_j6OnV5kiJ8v4q2E4Qyc3E16WcgDjsHgcOe1sLikkyeG3aHFTwvQ8-T2X7ViRSzsCyZATyt4HgFufcFPrw5DbewDiBtD6ir9vAow9igmlD_8p_O9FlwSeAaRaXb_vOY7frTSh/s700/04%20P1510020.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="525" data-original-width="700" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzHCd_RRzJ6d2bh1427TNBoGTtV5Qizronf68h2ZChBZBTXjqTmr5xK_j_j6OnV5kiJ8v4q2E4Qyc3E16WcgDjsHgcOe1sLikkyeG3aHFTwvQ8-T2X7ViRSzsCyZATyt4HgFufcFPrw5DbewDiBtD6ir9vAow9igmlD_8p_O9FlwSeAaRaXb_vOY7frTSh/w640-h480/04%20P1510020.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Pigs are notoriously difficult to borrow from a neighbour and so these animals might not be as hot as the cattle, although hot pork sandwiches are one of my favourites as I’m sure they must be the current occupier.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1LOh47TepE4Do2jkNn8SmVCiA8K5t3pfZOi3pteHFft0ZVAE95uob83a4b05MiPkPcfm96fkHWJoJI8wKPnhp6EWPIKC06O547-b0HW-sCb-QTqSnbKvmIYzMiqjXzNiNnmQGYEG8SBKAYlbwF_3RU-blfS7sBFe7RQpLiPt7CbjDD_aoqvAGEl0MgM-r/s700/05%20P1510022.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="412" data-original-width="700" height="376" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1LOh47TepE4Do2jkNn8SmVCiA8K5t3pfZOi3pteHFft0ZVAE95uob83a4b05MiPkPcfm96fkHWJoJI8wKPnhp6EWPIKC06O547-b0HW-sCb-QTqSnbKvmIYzMiqjXzNiNnmQGYEG8SBKAYlbwF_3RU-blfS7sBFe7RQpLiPt7CbjDD_aoqvAGEl0MgM-r/w640-h376/05%20P1510022.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Under a spreading chestnut tree is a long forgotten resident of the cabin, maybe, maybe not.</div><div><br /></div><div>At this point you might be wondering what the hell this is all about, and quite rightly so.</div><div><br /></div><div>It’s my back story to a campaign the Mad Lord Snapcase wants to indulge in, and DougnotEM4 and myself are being pulled along in his wake as usual. We will be playing a What a Cowboy campaign and we’ve managed to rein him into a 6 game campaign that at the end of it will see dead Gentlemen of Much Piddling in profusion. Not literally I hope and not me either.</div><div><br /></div><div>The grave is my reason for an implacable hatred of Saveloy ‘Rooster’ Snapcase and Bertram ‘Barmy’ Snapcase, a hatred that will see Rooster dead in some bloody field and Jack (my character) spitting on his inert corpse, although I’m sure Rooster might have something to say on the matter.</div><div><br /></div><div>I’m hoping for that to be, “AAARGH” as he hits the ground, lifeless.</div><div><br /></div><div>Usually in these campaigns we all write a back story to our characters, some more fanciful than others and this time there will be only 2 sides. Doug and I will have 2 characters each and be on the same side, the Mad Lord will have 4 characters and be on the losing side. The Mad Lord has decided the 2 sides should hate each other and so there has to be a reason for this enmity and eventually I’ll get around to my reason for it.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFChb0YSjjxTnOUyOmY62XKQGBjZr4klmSM7fz2AW4EnlFg1upwzk1crNMUW6aL5k7WLxy2uGoHPgzfnkdgfMi66lvWqyXOPXAaGXzS-lDcXfRH0bnKUM-U3zl9Sd0lyOteEkJZVjjKTbZbJJnLKl2xt9inQiSqz6owbsZNW2WNBDMDmLb2THfMDiAFlpf/s700/06%20P1510027.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="420" data-original-width="700" height="384" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFChb0YSjjxTnOUyOmY62XKQGBjZr4klmSM7fz2AW4EnlFg1upwzk1crNMUW6aL5k7WLxy2uGoHPgzfnkdgfMi66lvWqyXOPXAaGXzS-lDcXfRH0bnKUM-U3zl9Sd0lyOteEkJZVjjKTbZbJJnLKl2xt9inQiSqz6owbsZNW2WNBDMDmLb2THfMDiAFlpf/w640-h384/06%20P1510027.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>To continue this long winded opening to the game, that is also the opening to my back story, you can see that the resident of the cabin has a small canvas roofed shed and lumber to build another. This is where they will store much of the winter’s supplies, because the skinflint who built the cabin didn’t make it big enough.</div><div><br /></div><div>However the real reason for this picture is to show off my new tree stumps. Down in the affluent south Snappers and Dougers have bought resin tree stumps and then painted them. I was much enamoured of these stumps but up here in the grim north I have to make do with sticks from the woods. In addition I found some daz that I opened about 5 years ago to make the sacks you can see by the shed. So waste not want not as my old nanny used to say and I made the brown boxes and put some lips on beads to make pot jars. The daz was a nightmare to work, probably because it was so old, but for nowt the results are to my satisfaction and I’m really pleased with the pots.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiurglOOjMmXsFrfkVnU82i2Tu_yIZm_Gm-5hslto7LGwzWQb7Chjqh1XMSl8ckpJ5qRmofgKV4By-K8x0eSqzz8aBbtcRoC4YtONeoafnpXIv0CZgUb4lcpcPVP4n5At48qiTDi-8s7YQPO3YTEommXxGDNFdOpD_Y-Kr0eeCCftncAeGRqp1_UIYygxI7/s700/07%20P1510032.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="413" data-original-width="700" height="378" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiurglOOjMmXsFrfkVnU82i2Tu_yIZm_Gm-5hslto7LGwzWQb7Chjqh1XMSl8ckpJ5qRmofgKV4By-K8x0eSqzz8aBbtcRoC4YtONeoafnpXIv0CZgUb4lcpcPVP4n5At48qiTDi-8s7YQPO3YTEommXxGDNFdOpD_Y-Kr0eeCCftncAeGRqp1_UIYygxI7/w640-h378/07%20P1510032.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div>Ok I’m finally getting to the start of the story, as the owner of the saddle horse is putting the final log on the log pile with a great deal of satisfaction, not to say sore hands. Anyone who has heard the song Big Iron will have heard of Texas Red and the Arizona Ranger. Well this is Texas Red, she’s appeared in a couple of my stories and generally done well, with at least one famous victory to her credit.</div><div><br /></div><div>The scenario, such as it is, is for Red to survive, ideally driving off any Jayhawkers and remain in possession of the cabin for the winter. Her location on the table was determined by dice roll, as was the arrival location for the Jayhawkers.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2AHztfvthVIlJp5wbvIBs2KMKarFO7tlOphHdS4qak_eBTR7fnCpBG6IPUCR44mAjAx_GfDuHzAg_c1t93OHZXv5YNm3hIPDiA_HfkOi2nnXW3utPB-V-5Bm5GyUpZyJR3ZpYSh90Y-B6CoMK3Ku6cA0wWhpX2ESRVEcjaRQ2lm4SK-BClYZIDN19ueFg/s700/08%20P1510033.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="525" data-original-width="700" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2AHztfvthVIlJp5wbvIBs2KMKarFO7tlOphHdS4qak_eBTR7fnCpBG6IPUCR44mAjAx_GfDuHzAg_c1t93OHZXv5YNm3hIPDiA_HfkOi2nnXW3utPB-V-5Bm5GyUpZyJR3ZpYSh90Y-B6CoMK3Ku6cA0wWhpX2ESRVEcjaRQ2lm4SK-BClYZIDN19ueFg/w640-h480/08%20P1510033.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Unfortunately for Red, the Jayhawkers arrived just behind where she was working. Four of the meanest hombres west of the Missouri River, Hard Nosed Dave Stone on the left. backed up by Irish Frank with his sawn off shotgun. Waving his Winchester in the air and looking for a fight is Banjo Greg and leading the bunch from behind a big bushy beard is Bertram ‘Barmy’ Snapcase, brother of Rooster Snapcase who will be the victim in our forth coming campaign. Yes it’s a family feud.</div><div><br /></div><div>Before any of them can react, she turns and opens fire, concentrating on Hard Nose Dave, who is the nearest threat. There’s a soft thruump as a bullet hits the big man, but he stays on his feet, staggering a little as it slows him down somewhat.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvJ-dKhPILOCMX2ojYT82vXmrFAhIrbC8wn5cQt8r7gpGcDJQpV-qOFRp3lD84tARv8AuldjvsE8NLatS6wUUXfTnwLDOOBAlN21MRt09QDW_fPPezSilqR2pAymHkwgvOgxlQbA8NyS-BpeZoq3Ora26rML2LgJUK8COiSLUmZp3EXpdp3b6UavXjjuFQ/s700/09%20P1510035.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="525" data-original-width="700" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvJ-dKhPILOCMX2ojYT82vXmrFAhIrbC8wn5cQt8r7gpGcDJQpV-qOFRp3lD84tARv8AuldjvsE8NLatS6wUUXfTnwLDOOBAlN21MRt09QDW_fPPezSilqR2pAymHkwgvOgxlQbA8NyS-BpeZoq3Ora26rML2LgJUK8COiSLUmZp3EXpdp3b6UavXjjuFQ/w640-h480/09%20P1510035.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Irish Frank ain’t afraid of no man and certainly not worried by the slip of a lass that he sees in front of him. He moves forward and fires both barrels of the shotgun, but his target is fast and she dodges behind the large cart. The buckshot splinters wood into the air but Red is unharmed and Frank has made the mistake of moving from the cover of the remarkably authentic tree stump into the open, pulling his pistol at the same time.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiURW9EON9qRY2gcjdAicpg30D6bOV7dIlZrVdfU9LOJUOf-4h4IUTUBtxKx5L95TsPdYIZ-L04Bv9CfLukdcmEZGUbN_tdXA_ePDp-8Jld3fSaJJmxNQh_wte7nYKWZJ7RwnGi3GVrmYFbR-TEkcbWqS00svZVTgeT-L6fWM5H1_VLEHs4nZ5kpM6TH-n4/s700/10%20P1510036a.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="362" data-original-width="700" height="330" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiURW9EON9qRY2gcjdAicpg30D6bOV7dIlZrVdfU9LOJUOf-4h4IUTUBtxKx5L95TsPdYIZ-L04Bv9CfLukdcmEZGUbN_tdXA_ePDp-8Jld3fSaJJmxNQh_wte7nYKWZJ7RwnGi3GVrmYFbR-TEkcbWqS00svZVTgeT-L6fWM5H1_VLEHs4nZ5kpM6TH-n4/w640-h330/10%20P1510036a.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Snapcase for all his faults as a human being, isn’t afraid to lead his men into a fight from the front and he runs forward to the shelter of another authentic tree stump. He aims and fires his Colt Army revolver and if Red hadn’t been so agile he would have put at least one bullet into her delicate body, as it is she dodges his hastily fired shots and ducks behind the wheel barrow.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8esFKJ_3k-4aHD6EBdmAXHxNPfE-Ot8XyPrzAUw0K8Vvx4AXiD6CqC9MDrbv59oO02LRuxcp_L4nK5JWWpzSIBDDgBDp2d3LIOh9uRfGAdwkEsMtz68Zgqppj_I-9zEc86CG_9Mwh-zPT2bvVfSjTGQcjHcbg4ytqrXqEGtkrptDpY7obvwxusSqScIl2/s700/11%20P1510037a.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="470" data-original-width="700" height="430" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8esFKJ_3k-4aHD6EBdmAXHxNPfE-Ot8XyPrzAUw0K8Vvx4AXiD6CqC9MDrbv59oO02LRuxcp_L4nK5JWWpzSIBDDgBDp2d3LIOh9uRfGAdwkEsMtz68Zgqppj_I-9zEc86CG_9Mwh-zPT2bvVfSjTGQcjHcbg4ytqrXqEGtkrptDpY7obvwxusSqScIl2/w640-h430/11%20P1510037a.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Like a cat she recovers from the duck back, leans to the side and looks at Irish Frank who has made the mistake of not hiding behind the authentic tree stump. She puts a bullet between his right eye and his left eye and he falls slowly to the floor with a .45 calibre bullet between both eyes and remains inert.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7W4UfTaRuOWtqIQy2xto4as9v4MVMd-JiFPmKBJmOfNe7f9iH1rDoiEsOmmwqUq6IYESQ5hO-yybrYNbJ1dO1HrRleJqyeToxYSZ6jNRQV1da_QEERwlL1VhwmZ_7bG9tL3u8ZlgZXv6AoWZEjc_SGT01jVCo0AHceB0IhWKsq8-YYzP9chYvTBnVNW9X/s700/12%20P1510038a.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="511" data-original-width="700" height="468" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7W4UfTaRuOWtqIQy2xto4as9v4MVMd-JiFPmKBJmOfNe7f9iH1rDoiEsOmmwqUq6IYESQ5hO-yybrYNbJ1dO1HrRleJqyeToxYSZ6jNRQV1da_QEERwlL1VhwmZ_7bG9tL3u8ZlgZXv6AoWZEjc_SGT01jVCo0AHceB0IhWKsq8-YYzP9chYvTBnVNW9X/w640-h468/12%20P1510038a.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>She then falls back towards the cabin, keeping whatever cover she can between her and her implacable opponents.</div><div><br /></div><div>Banjo Greg shoots and shoots again. Not taking the time to aim he fires wildly and hits Big Grey, Texas Red’s faithful horse. The horse doesn’t flinch, he’s been hit before by wild gunfire. He knows that Red is close by and she will protect him. Of course he might not like the fact that she is using him as cover, but for a handful of oats he’s prepared to forgive a lot.</div><div><br /></div><div>Hard Nose Dave opens fire and forces Red to back up again. She can’t afford to do this because her saddle gun, a Winchester repeating carbine is holstered in Grey’s saddle. She is fortunate and grabs the Winchester before backing into the cabin.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjs1ZA8EQX5aN4tYmSmChMASTju_GcRHM7VBhdXH7t9z-k_1o07dUpHSb7fPpPQ1-JELzrmIsgTJ0sVOzyf8rO8RKVLtyCnrgQz4CLi99gKxvV12nu6gH7MUpbzu-2pq2_dZmYotKgn7oKJxurqUMRiG32iNqnidMt_I5NYE0AgH2H7pMKl3WoVF09gWiv3/s700/13%20P1510043.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="525" data-original-width="700" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjs1ZA8EQX5aN4tYmSmChMASTju_GcRHM7VBhdXH7t9z-k_1o07dUpHSb7fPpPQ1-JELzrmIsgTJ0sVOzyf8rO8RKVLtyCnrgQz4CLi99gKxvV12nu6gH7MUpbzu-2pq2_dZmYotKgn7oKJxurqUMRiG32iNqnidMt_I5NYE0AgH2H7pMKl3WoVF09gWiv3/w640-h480/13%20P1510043.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>As she backs into the cabin Snapcase advances, a little precipitously and Red pulls down the shotgun hanging on the wall, swapping it for the Winchester, she advances to the open door and unloads both barrels in the direction of Snapcase. He might be little slow on his feet and just as slow in the head but when someone unloads both barrels of a shotgun in your direction it will make your blood quicken and you might become a little lighter on your toes. He dodges, hitting the dirt, she looks on in disgust to see he is still wriggling around and so she drops the shotgun and draws her revolver, fires and misses again. She slams the door shut, cursing roundly. It would appear this man leads a charmed life.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvwwLZw7wvkn38p7fZJaUveCDMYjREbr02DGBqQdiSzVcBke1amN-zVuw6JuR2YUUofetM-qR0Lbep8qGU_XkuTAzgvLmMDMapDIwavK-ng_5V1KnUEsy-Jy2vFl6k_ijaIhHPA9NSWTLgo37tyn4-VYtw02DUraivgi3CT4v4OldI4dKiLRe42kDdVVHi/s700/14%20P1510045.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="525" data-original-width="700" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvwwLZw7wvkn38p7fZJaUveCDMYjREbr02DGBqQdiSzVcBke1amN-zVuw6JuR2YUUofetM-qR0Lbep8qGU_XkuTAzgvLmMDMapDIwavK-ng_5V1KnUEsy-Jy2vFl6k_ijaIhHPA9NSWTLgo37tyn4-VYtw02DUraivgi3CT4v4OldI4dKiLRe42kDdVVHi/w640-h480/14%20P1510045.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Greg takes a run at the door, lowers his shoulder and hits it with some force. Her bounces back, swears roundly and glares malevolently at the stout wood work. What he doesn’t realise is that he almost broke the damn thing. 6 rolled on the dice and the door only has an 8 defensive value. A light tap will now knock it off its hinges.</div><div><br /></div><div>Things are looking bleak for Red, she’s trapped inside the cabin with the three desperado’s outside blocking her escape.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpjxEGaTdL6jJMmDnNXblIcKs3Akw_fNbRJRCLYBxCJmibwPnUIa3Sf4G_73wufidFe24MP26TC_N2v3li8C9DQKEXj-IX1z7MMwLPaOYG829rq8G7jjXHVa8TyX7kP0w3ke_pJqRRP5retNiWfR45RijiWszVPHQ7wL8NzyesA6URTGYlFkCshFvEmAcX/s700/15%20P1510046.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="525" data-original-width="700" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpjxEGaTdL6jJMmDnNXblIcKs3Akw_fNbRJRCLYBxCJmibwPnUIa3Sf4G_73wufidFe24MP26TC_N2v3li8C9DQKEXj-IX1z7MMwLPaOYG829rq8G7jjXHVa8TyX7kP0w3ke_pJqRRP5retNiWfR45RijiWszVPHQ7wL8NzyesA6URTGYlFkCshFvEmAcX/w640-h480/15%20P1510046.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Snapcase moves up to take Greg’s place, with his bulk the door isn’t going to resist much longer. He runs up but fortunately for Red he slips in some horse dung and doesn’t apply his full weight to the door and it resists a little longer than anyone thought it would.</div><div><br /></div><div>Even so, he eventually breaks the door down and Red resorts to playing her last Bonanza token as he flies through the open doorway. She takes careful aim and fires at point blank range but damn and tarnation she misses. Snapcase is able to aim and fire in return but missing is catching and he misses as well.</div><div><br /></div><div>Greg fires through the gap left by the broken door but Red dodges the bullet.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLiC0v8S7YGaMboElRaO3HGFXj4RcJ1k6iw56xASCQzV2k1DSlRbkQyHJoEaEAQhd7d-zyVoVsGkQ3TWUZIGwj0gKnLHyGk089IzuXkFaZ0RCh5i7skyYZOhVWvGhhX0TpSKV_Ce_COSSyBkyjNfuDRUGcpAYd4yuMmlbj1Ag-On7Fyj2er5kZ8Pm6p1Il/s700/16%20P1510047.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="525" data-original-width="700" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLiC0v8S7YGaMboElRaO3HGFXj4RcJ1k6iw56xASCQzV2k1DSlRbkQyHJoEaEAQhd7d-zyVoVsGkQ3TWUZIGwj0gKnLHyGk089IzuXkFaZ0RCh5i7skyYZOhVWvGhhX0TpSKV_Ce_COSSyBkyjNfuDRUGcpAYd4yuMmlbj1Ag-On7Fyj2er5kZ8Pm6p1Il/w640-h480/16%20P1510047.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>It gets worse for Red when Hard Nose Dave realizes there’s an undefended window on the far side of the cabin and he moves to cover it.</div><div><br /></div><div>Red has to do something and as Snapcase finally breaks down the door, she takes careful aim at his centre of mass but yet again misses that juicy target. She does however hit his left leg and he goes down like a sack of potatoes. She then fires a quick shot at Greg but misses her target again.</div><div><br /></div><div>Her position is untenable and so when Snapcase falls in the doorway leaving a small gap for her to escape, she sets off running like a hare, hurdling his prostrate form she runs like the wind.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTdMTTr2t1a8DNZfSc-VTDam4iThfWCQiD5TWHgO75oXWxoJQxjU_DUTh7LAQ_hQaHaAmNQAwFYYZTerkC6vTDQUHtq-ofgevyBNasZWzAugF6taD72n9CtGoHVNU0PLZSJW1D_uCWjMB8Ofljo3KXXsp-rRBpsaNLzx9Nqa99lD1eRMVVq1VRsZIo1wrf/s700/17%20P1510049a.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="422" data-original-width="700" height="386" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTdMTTr2t1a8DNZfSc-VTDam4iThfWCQiD5TWHgO75oXWxoJQxjU_DUTh7LAQ_hQaHaAmNQAwFYYZTerkC6vTDQUHtq-ofgevyBNasZWzAugF6taD72n9CtGoHVNU0PLZSJW1D_uCWjMB8Ofljo3KXXsp-rRBpsaNLzx9Nqa99lD1eRMVVq1VRsZIo1wrf/w640-h386/17%20P1510049a.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>With some incredibly good dice rolls she makes it to the cover of another of the very authentic tree stumps.</div><div><br /></div><div>There is a possibility that she can make it off the table next turn but I don’t agree with the idea that a table edge provides total sanctuary so she might need to rethink this strategy.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgORPHc1tb-99risoKuegNNQGmxw0WbkkL-Vs7JIhiJ36VzgCH5h1B21qv5ppcEzVLZG24pjdiXHXGqmbRqM5H-P3UqDwUxZegQoZcnEz3QPih_jAqCRoO2sTohktJ1hrl0zDFPS2TOFE9BkWQkddoGiBsUlntKlk8dmrsrla4mY3Q7ddiCjscpuoDEYA1I/s700/18%20P1510050.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="525" data-original-width="700" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgORPHc1tb-99risoKuegNNQGmxw0WbkkL-Vs7JIhiJ36VzgCH5h1B21qv5ppcEzVLZG24pjdiXHXGqmbRqM5H-P3UqDwUxZegQoZcnEz3QPih_jAqCRoO2sTohktJ1hrl0zDFPS2TOFE9BkWQkddoGiBsUlntKlk8dmrsrla4mY3Q7ddiCjscpuoDEYA1I/w640-h480/18%20P1510050.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>It becomes a little immaterial as Greg chases after her. He’s not read the rules too well and when he catches up, he finds that he only has 1D6 to her 4D6. Even so he puts up a heroic fight and they both take damage.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEit6XRWDVMj2kuEGcZjbcDKFGrznm-yGxPFDPc4CikJlD_wY4OUNWF83t8_JliYCqhNDP6N4XjVQZkPGt5mDBBaBQvN-Lt2iaaUvPjazC2mHy9Km1WxP6qxwSm5jUWXMirrUfghXh0ovVv9p4rXXBATw8u3hl_XBV2OVuOrEvLNEqHpt0dof9u6F5YWMe3J/s700/19%20P1510053a.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="505" data-original-width="700" height="462" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEit6XRWDVMj2kuEGcZjbcDKFGrznm-yGxPFDPc4CikJlD_wY4OUNWF83t8_JliYCqhNDP6N4XjVQZkPGt5mDBBaBQvN-Lt2iaaUvPjazC2mHy9Km1WxP6qxwSm5jUWXMirrUfghXh0ovVv9p4rXXBATw8u3hl_XBV2OVuOrEvLNEqHpt0dof9u6F5YWMe3J/w640-h462/19%20P1510053a.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>But as the fight continues he is forced back. Red hasn’t read the rules fully either but has quickly realised that using her pistol as a club isn’t how Mr Colt intended for it to be used.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQ6gZIsorgEvdw44UjARiLTqxwG2v0un2DkOF8Z1ZtpLm2frMTa5CS_4JdcAuZiIp9UX5LLpUqPJIyU7CFpceaSSWHqwPMGOo6C5ycpowhObdEF_lMeYHpzpx877VyuYpQ_YQ40xuhiWlnWdhBzAcPXLV355JZGaKnJvaCyOiQcso2boI1TXfEX874RBYE/s700/020%20P1510056a.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="446" data-original-width="700" height="408" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQ6gZIsorgEvdw44UjARiLTqxwG2v0un2DkOF8Z1ZtpLm2frMTa5CS_4JdcAuZiIp9UX5LLpUqPJIyU7CFpceaSSWHqwPMGOo6C5ycpowhObdEF_lMeYHpzpx877VyuYpQ_YQ40xuhiWlnWdhBzAcPXLV355JZGaKnJvaCyOiQcso2boI1TXfEX874RBYE/w640-h408/020%20P1510056a.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>So she aims the gun and pulls the trigger, BANG BANG you’re dead. Greg falls to the floor and is relieved to learn he’s not dead but he’s not going to get up soon either.</div><div><br /></div><div>Hard Nose Dave Stone and Snapcase have both followed Greg, chasing after Red but seeing Greg fall as her revolvers spit fire and lead in their direction calls for them to re-evaluate their situation.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjynJSIDf7sipHht_cVPGqNPzIZfZLBK0R0inaciyrZYD4KCN3c7AlkfekP8ZAmreJK3DUtzU9QhnPNV4w8qXSAZpavdoqht9FJZ8ivR1Jp0S9Ln8faCYXdvyZcpgt4ScrP4Oi7Q8Z7Lp8pTt7AJqPvmQOKP75lEp9uuYdm26k_c5mQ5LDZCMpRIil4Ah7n/s700/21%20P1510057a.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="492" data-original-width="700" height="450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjynJSIDf7sipHht_cVPGqNPzIZfZLBK0R0inaciyrZYD4KCN3c7AlkfekP8ZAmreJK3DUtzU9QhnPNV4w8qXSAZpavdoqht9FJZ8ivR1Jp0S9Ln8faCYXdvyZcpgt4ScrP4Oi7Q8Z7Lp8pTt7AJqPvmQOKP75lEp9uuYdm26k_c5mQ5LDZCMpRIil4Ah7n/w640-h450/21%20P1510057a.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>And come to the conclusion that discretion is the best part of valour and turn to run away.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSYtY_PVOITW6HvBnOnAZW_awDBr294xwQFpqgRGFN5VbzgWpnja7ZmKbIcyKE1UmSF4ZiBAFF6x8UDASFr03vmzz-8AAS57vNYW2mAD5fXZiWS4Eo7A6MIivcjRWEYLLMn7fcosPRgQ_YKFRVF66eU1or9mnDYzEYJdsk_LD-fwP2_S8WT69mcCGu_BEa/s700/22%20P1510058.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="525" data-original-width="700" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSYtY_PVOITW6HvBnOnAZW_awDBr294xwQFpqgRGFN5VbzgWpnja7ZmKbIcyKE1UmSF4ZiBAFF6x8UDASFr03vmzz-8AAS57vNYW2mAD5fXZiWS4Eo7A6MIivcjRWEYLLMn7fcosPRgQ_YKFRVF66eU1or9mnDYzEYJdsk_LD-fwP2_S8WT69mcCGu_BEa/w640-h480/22%20P1510058.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Red fires a couple of shots at their retreating backs before moving over to the cabin. She watches them go, cognisant of the fact that her cabin doesn’t have a functioning door and that an implacable enemy knows where she lives. There are a number of decisions to be made before winter sets in and they need to be made quickly.</div><div><br /></div><div>It’s too late in the year to look for another hide out and even if this one isn’t safe it’s better than the alternative.</div><div><br /></div><div>Once the snow comes she should be relatively secure……hopefully.</div><div><br /></div><div>She keeps a track of time and in early February, when the snow is at it’s thickest she sees a lone rider approaching the cabin. A heavy set man climbs down off a weary chestnut stallion and he approaches the door.</div><div><br /></div><div>She ducks down behind the bed and waits patiently for the door to open, gun at the ready. There’s a light cough at the window and a gravely voice asks “Who are you and where’s Jean” she turns slowly and looks down the barrel of the strangers Walker Colt.</div><div><br /></div><div>To cut a long story short the stranger is Daniels, Jack Daniels and Texas Red had buried his wife Jean under the chestnut tree. Jean had been shot by the Jayhawkers and died in Red’s arms.</div><div><br /></div><div>The carpet bagging Snapcase family are responsible for her death and time will tell if they will pay the full price.</div><div><br /></div><div>Come the thaw Jack will head south to avenge Jeans death, he doesn’t know where Bertram Snapcase will be hiding out, but his rat of a brother Saveloy has bribed his way into the Sheriff’s office in the New Mexico Territory. One dead Snapcase is as good as another dead Snapcase, I think that’s chapter 4, verse 12, in the St James Bible but I’m quoting from memory and may be mistaken.</div><div><br /></div><div>On the way south he will enlist the help of their offspring, the Kid. The kid is their only child, Molly Daniels, the meanest spitfire this side of the Rio Grande and that’s a lot of territory. God help Snapcase when the two of them hit his town.</div>Vagabondhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14031648950206231742noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7655102169795953648.post-20495377980510123392023-10-12T16:45:00.003+01:002023-10-12T16:45:37.773+01:00Yuma Proving Ground - Game 2 - The ActionAfter that rather long intermission and a word from our sponsors I’d like continue the story of my 2nd Zone Alfa game.<div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0lgSYxtA9nToXiLBTlgA5rPHLG_1R9yYFjlUB5EBIjwuBj7CxaGCMt0EAtU0RXbwWjNm4z40lHmOgFppZsd_n1EOSce6YWdMuS3FBRU2BS08dbGJr-JrRTqR-1UqVTNmjzZotqXGG2Dt6mulOTmsQAQoXDFkAKkVcSLf-D40WWAQcXNA_M9o53OjB82TF/s700/012%20P1500653.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="236" data-original-width="700" height="216" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0lgSYxtA9nToXiLBTlgA5rPHLG_1R9yYFjlUB5EBIjwuBj7CxaGCMt0EAtU0RXbwWjNm4z40lHmOgFppZsd_n1EOSce6YWdMuS3FBRU2BS08dbGJr-JrRTqR-1UqVTNmjzZotqXGG2Dt6mulOTmsQAQoXDFkAKkVcSLf-D40WWAQcXNA_M9o53OjB82TF/w640-h216/012%20P1500653.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Our intrepid hero’s are over the wire and making there way to Silas in the desert. They knew where his camp was but they didn’t know that after the visit from the Army patrol, Silas and Bull had decided they needed a little more protection.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaeghy0TgfftncFxV7_8W5xExevQnjS5GXzIUcVcLiDU4Yq9HK1Q1xoS73UTWwKTLvxTGIeFHX2AZ0P62EBHZu7ImVe2SCHcYIB3g1qOGubMQ3ZiJUr1oCJtJ8xILCuNj2l3Qwq1EVkEW-ajnML49AaYMYAMK0IBhIzG4oPs4LoCJUXWDPCO9kTzFMuRv9/s700/013%20P1500647.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="486" data-original-width="700" height="444" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaeghy0TgfftncFxV7_8W5xExevQnjS5GXzIUcVcLiDU4Yq9HK1Q1xoS73UTWwKTLvxTGIeFHX2AZ0P62EBHZu7ImVe2SCHcYIB3g1qOGubMQ3ZiJUr1oCJtJ8xILCuNj2l3Qwq1EVkEW-ajnML49AaYMYAMK0IBhIzG4oPs4LoCJUXWDPCO9kTzFMuRv9/w640-h444/013%20P1500647.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>So they’d decided to ring the place with a wire fence and a big gate. This might make things a little more difficult!</div><div><br /></div><div>The main objective is the wooden shed that the brothers use for their sleeping quarters, there are 2 secondary Hot Spots, the tent in the far corner and a wandering one. Its location would be decided once Donovan and his team arrived at the gate.</div><div><br /></div><div>As everyone knows now, the area around the Yuma Proving Ground is a dangerous place, the brothers might be OK, holed up in their compound or they might not be.</div><div><br /></div><div>Taking the Z.A. chart for id of Zone Hostiles a D6 roll of 1 indicates it’s the brothers rather than a swarm of something and they’re OK, a D6 roll of 4 usually indicates Zombies and you’ve guessed it, they’re not OK but are now Zombies.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoM8PvqfvdXUtSjK6X2zzEtaQHbkC7Dp5B-N0DBQ8J8VpGureEHXrBMOenAeMMMHs1KMxsntDjbk--C1iRbwd_P88ELEYD3k5f_fu4uapheSZ3I_6DL15by49KBzplfRzIkdKq9HpTwWhYtY9NZmdVv86KaYmEeQANCWyP3tGfoP9nsIRUJy77vJU70QDU/s700/014%20P1500648.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="425" data-original-width="700" height="388" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoM8PvqfvdXUtSjK6X2zzEtaQHbkC7Dp5B-N0DBQ8J8VpGureEHXrBMOenAeMMMHs1KMxsntDjbk--C1iRbwd_P88ELEYD3k5f_fu4uapheSZ3I_6DL15by49KBzplfRzIkdKq9HpTwWhYtY9NZmdVv86KaYmEeQANCWyP3tGfoP9nsIRUJy77vJU70QDU/w640-h388/014%20P1500648.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>A roll of 6 on the set up die means Donovan has 7 moves to get into the compound, search it for the brothers and get out before an Army patrol turns up demanding to know why he is inside the blue zone, rather than outside guarding its outer perimeter. That might require some fast talking but I think he’s up to that challenge.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1DuFD51zhofPYCH6SCuiUg7jbM2xBhCUii594DtMnDIjl-DTusF59sL3W_NrLQ3B2WS_DUkyZrR8fz4HdKNFxhfIARRFuL3-ENKQzg5iLKTmKQBA2Diw6LhoWGnqXjtBBSHXRtCLfcyosJtUBqB9s4XsnbbCyLH9R0cUrCHJJvuT09NjlJWpOx-PvRkAh/s700/015%20P1500655.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="504" data-original-width="700" height="460" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1DuFD51zhofPYCH6SCuiUg7jbM2xBhCUii594DtMnDIjl-DTusF59sL3W_NrLQ3B2WS_DUkyZrR8fz4HdKNFxhfIARRFuL3-ENKQzg5iLKTmKQBA2Diw6LhoWGnqXjtBBSHXRtCLfcyosJtUBqB9s4XsnbbCyLH9R0cUrCHJJvuT09NjlJWpOx-PvRkAh/w640-h460/015%20P1500655.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>As before a die roll decides where Donovan’s team enters the board and providentially it’s in front of the gate and Stanislav is able to say, rather smugly, “there it is Sir” “You didn’t mention wire fencing did you” he responds. “did anyone bring wire cutters”. There’s a resounding silence when I rolled 3 having decided that they would have wire cutters on a roll of 5 or 6.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrns2NeVBnGnIXXKLTLba1Cd7bLBRdXfgTcUJ_8nCHxw0L-4ZJAvjd1w4VfPZLhYeBW0Z9zkrC0uQjeFbbut76Yk6b_xxSkeualjqH2uG1R0Kztmj-zoLgJ-E3FUVpU67o81GIn8NYU5FYRemSuK76r6L5ywEHUhWPvtleoNGXTU7_pwnaX4yew-_W359Z/s700/016%20P1500657.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="399" data-original-width="700" height="364" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrns2NeVBnGnIXXKLTLba1Cd7bLBRdXfgTcUJ_8nCHxw0L-4ZJAvjd1w4VfPZLhYeBW0Z9zkrC0uQjeFbbut76Yk6b_xxSkeualjqH2uG1R0Kztmj-zoLgJ-E3FUVpU67o81GIn8NYU5FYRemSuK76r6L5ywEHUhWPvtleoNGXTU7_pwnaX4yew-_W359Z/w640-h364/016%20P1500657.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Is the gate locked? 1-5 it is, did I mention it’s a dangerous place out there? - Roll 5, whoops it’s locked.</div><div><br /></div><div>Not to worry Katie Moss is a skilful lock picker, a skill she picked up in a previous life, one that she doesn’t talk about much, or at all. I forgot to mention, after the last fiasco with the Rookies now everyone is Hard and she has 2 actions trying to pick the lock. Unfortunately she fails….twice.</div><div><br /></div><div>Hummm.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTRy965Ond2s1l49soghl2E_TPr7jVIAZfiG3HIxuunJZtGMQLtFo5Em5WauSVfCVJLIQi9DPGGG7LhpcCVbUu9iolYgcpx2bbgZY23gI4h2RmH6myxZ_TtaZP34nV2qr9oP35cmKSH7h3d2laoDzHslNyMr691JHjVnConuv67Ms_0y1OiH69beaff0eP/s700/017%20P1500658.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="439" data-original-width="700" height="402" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTRy965Ond2s1l49soghl2E_TPr7jVIAZfiG3HIxuunJZtGMQLtFo5Em5WauSVfCVJLIQi9DPGGG7LhpcCVbUu9iolYgcpx2bbgZY23gI4h2RmH6myxZ_TtaZP34nV2qr9oP35cmKSH7h3d2laoDzHslNyMr691JHjVnConuv67Ms_0y1OiH69beaff0eP/w640-h402/017%20P1500658.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Once the team arrived at the gate I rolled to see where the wandering Hot Spot would be. Fortunately it’s on the far side of the compound and out of sight. It will wander 1 to 6” in a random direction each turn until it is in sight of one of the team.</div><div><br /></div><div>The Hot Spot is the penny with 4 lentils on it.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiA76M1XyovNjtPmiQPhOC4hHWpU8KA4GGiNR_F0FVY-DHhWX7_iItHGiZcI9cKLwyyQc1Kp0TGPZFVtM4lEedEQTZ528BV4BINcSV3xlWqAtzlqn1KSeyEDNPX8DOhodocwV44hg6fGvYv34cr0FpYdChAjBoZDtsuUgDQAbiH5RjAQB27lJNFkwpFPUtO/s700/018%20P1500659.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="525" data-original-width="700" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiA76M1XyovNjtPmiQPhOC4hHWpU8KA4GGiNR_F0FVY-DHhWX7_iItHGiZcI9cKLwyyQc1Kp0TGPZFVtM4lEedEQTZ528BV4BINcSV3xlWqAtzlqn1KSeyEDNPX8DOhodocwV44hg6fGvYv34cr0FpYdChAjBoZDtsuUgDQAbiH5RjAQB27lJNFkwpFPUtO/w640-h480/018%20P1500659.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>I don’t believe it’s as easy to climb an 8’ wire fence as most rules writers and so everyone has to test to make the climb. Donovan, Freddie and Stanislav are not dexterous enough to make the climb and so only Hans and Schmidtt get over. Katie has used up her actions failing to pick the lock and will try the climb next move.</div><div><br /></div><div>Well at least someone is inside although I worry a little because the Games Master might make them test to climb back out, especially if they get injured.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilYnrKGCrf9ytqhUyW0pYWaUPAB3F5gXqYwfWKvKf1zAoTbUAHLe7Xn1QNMRKyC5qbdeLzA6pEaUm3uOtIG7pXYa_vHqop8uiAOJZI2pWvzWE_oCMGe32ztVHQqQ8t5KIIh_i2D8FBO8ckgAACLfchJlMNOkR3_bpzJmNNbOGL2fNIKezVLpsXMyNnTUHb/s700/019%20P1500661.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="474" data-original-width="700" height="434" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilYnrKGCrf9ytqhUyW0pYWaUPAB3F5gXqYwfWKvKf1zAoTbUAHLe7Xn1QNMRKyC5qbdeLzA6pEaUm3uOtIG7pXYa_vHqop8uiAOJZI2pWvzWE_oCMGe32ztVHQqQ8t5KIIh_i2D8FBO8ckgAACLfchJlMNOkR3_bpzJmNNbOGL2fNIKezVLpsXMyNnTUHb/w640-h434/019%20P1500661.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Katie has hidden talents and in spite of the tight dress and high heels she’s over the fence in no time. Freddie and Stanislav move right to cover Schmidtt as Donovan goes on Alert to cover Hans.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGHvbliQ1j5zIACWVmJ3nLGCMlejCyq1vS8e_fqHelTKiK25v6mBrF5uSkuRHQPkz7l5jBr9wY8jbxhW7S35U1ay4nCFEgITE9AzztLIAIVoCvFoyQgsDMmwj-XyCRGP56j2-ymYy_Bw0Iniekk2g_ZdKpfyp2Kaiysl2qxa35EgS_7y7GoNzvASwi5662/s700/020%20P1500662.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="474" data-original-width="700" height="434" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGHvbliQ1j5zIACWVmJ3nLGCMlejCyq1vS8e_fqHelTKiK25v6mBrF5uSkuRHQPkz7l5jBr9wY8jbxhW7S35U1ay4nCFEgITE9AzztLIAIVoCvFoyQgsDMmwj-XyCRGP56j2-ymYy_Bw0Iniekk2g_ZdKpfyp2Kaiysl2qxa35EgS_7y7GoNzvASwi5662/w640-h434/020%20P1500662.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>As Hans moves forward to check out the tent he disturbs a bunch of zombies, two of them look very like Silas and Bull, although Hans doesn’t know that. He’s a little perturbed when they make an immediate move towards him. He fires as they come and misses, nerves I guess, understandable in the circumstances but a bit awkward all the same.</div><div><br /></div><div>Donovan on Alert, can’t fire a shotgun without hitting Hans and so he draws his pistol instead.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWt8V0NaSXbxP7mZmvBywLlBEf6N5vG2cBZC5qZG6LJQrOVboigYOce--N2md9d6_KYTeY0-Z7DpdJh2yUqA4elHCL3gJOc4uDBHFVV6OuwwP7-y0Xyl37nGKO5RKvJmUy3cM48rKbTxy7tfG7i_fR3eBSLrAWx71k1gI6CVGPYqgkPaUzFQcXBhHzx3_D/s700/021%20P1500665.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="447" data-original-width="700" height="408" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWt8V0NaSXbxP7mZmvBywLlBEf6N5vG2cBZC5qZG6LJQrOVboigYOce--N2md9d6_KYTeY0-Z7DpdJh2yUqA4elHCL3gJOc4uDBHFVV6OuwwP7-y0Xyl37nGKO5RKvJmUy3cM48rKbTxy7tfG7i_fR3eBSLrAWx71k1gI6CVGPYqgkPaUzFQcXBhHzx3_D/w640-h408/021%20P1500665.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Schmidtt climbs onto the truck, which isn’t such a good move as some ghoulish looking creatures rush out and surround him. He fires as they come and one explodes in a ball of blood and green flesh.</div><div><br /></div><div>Freddie and Stanislav look on in horror as they realise they’ve used their actions for this turn.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhj1XMka9LGVMq66H6nDW40uHyLbSXIdDfFajyxnCA8dWxEbuaLHHrSuQCP9hK37TqG2debP75Du_MrrNsn_ysoV_lmUOU9W9vrbRvj2iYj513c93sqsGDF4U2Ma7hTN5ZKihnBHzZa-Ra4-3TZ2ihG3OTzXuHG-nUDkGN9ho171_tQAacCIOsdKENem45W/s700/022%20P1500666.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="525" data-original-width="700" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhj1XMka9LGVMq66H6nDW40uHyLbSXIdDfFajyxnCA8dWxEbuaLHHrSuQCP9hK37TqG2debP75Du_MrrNsn_ysoV_lmUOU9W9vrbRvj2iYj513c93sqsGDF4U2Ma7hTN5ZKihnBHzZa-Ra4-3TZ2ihG3OTzXuHG-nUDkGN9ho171_tQAacCIOsdKENem45W/w640-h480/022%20P1500666.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Katie wonders if it was a good idea climbing over the fence and also wonders if pulling the pocket revolver and the can of mace is going to be 1 or 2 actions or maybe even a free action. There’s time for a passing thought on who will activate first next turn and finally, she wonders why she pays a bodyguard who can’t climb a fence and isn’t available to guard her body when she needs him.</div><div><br /></div><div>The green ghoul just wonders what she will taste like.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggwHb_DL5fivgBuOWXd9DCR_4xa0w1s1AwhBVomB9CxOj0NxRfB85zBCQ2wgQg_y1QdG0uSxubRyukul1g6aVb3plGX1bG9S_iMt1xG9gaIOQqY7uy34YkT907SfQSpRMXP8sHlw-Ul7-4eC1GAZoIL1ct5Nn5V9DtqqqVO3GMroZUqvbMlXBB-q3olpeD/s700/023%20P1500669.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="525" data-original-width="700" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggwHb_DL5fivgBuOWXd9DCR_4xa0w1s1AwhBVomB9CxOj0NxRfB85zBCQ2wgQg_y1QdG0uSxubRyukul1g6aVb3plGX1bG9S_iMt1xG9gaIOQqY7uy34YkT907SfQSpRMXP8sHlw-Ul7-4eC1GAZoIL1ct5Nn5V9DtqqqVO3GMroZUqvbMlXBB-q3olpeD/w640-h480/023%20P1500669.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>This bit is a little confusing, well it confused me. Ghouls activate 1st, 2 of them attack Schmidtt, one of them hits Schmidtt and he fails to save so is down. He defends and gets two hits, both of the Ghouls fail to save, so 2 Ghouls down. He can’t use one of his 2 hits to parry an attack because he’s the defender not the attacker.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzPY58esrpzSLJD3tSyfTesIB1JQVcL0kuSBxNXibzE_jO6NUZSKcoBNmQDVttMGWNnjhzAkBlcf5xzsqszgmMEYXRHCZHg4j_pTZYwB-0KdeFo2tf6NfdY1f-hwY89SWQQu6ZYtVIEdwXsoUIWpPpI-zG00EiZnEf2YFtesRJhLBTU0o-zNsIwPLajQsr/s700/024%20P1500671.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="525" data-original-width="700" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzPY58esrpzSLJD3tSyfTesIB1JQVcL0kuSBxNXibzE_jO6NUZSKcoBNmQDVttMGWNnjhzAkBlcf5xzsqszgmMEYXRHCZHg4j_pTZYwB-0KdeFo2tf6NfdY1f-hwY89SWQQu6ZYtVIEdwXsoUIWpPpI-zG00EiZnEf2YFtesRJhLBTU0o-zNsIwPLajQsr/w640-h480/024%20P1500671.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>The zombies activate next and there are 2 of them in contact with Hans, he goes down. Katie shoots at the Ghoul nearest her and hits it but does no damage, it moves into contact with her.</div><div><br /></div><div>The remaining 2 zombies move towards Katie but Donovan now has a clear field of fire and blasts them, they both die.</div><div><br /></div><div>Freddie also has a clear field of fire between the cars and shed. He hits both remaining zombies and one of them goes down.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo8V-64uxOdrck-BYyGecAiRT_M_NswLsso7TIoroDvNFKvVudbzH-J_xKWdLr6gTbJ5kNL9lNPwT6SSLhRouFLWBXJDv2vNgiU8klA8D5o18MFLbC6wRmsj4oWNVpvBHbFdWoIFcnX97Tv9jxp1ZIPBrztevPSDyhOpTv8ixC1kSs6klepDUP2rtKWeKi/s700/025%20P1500672.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="476" data-original-width="700" height="435" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo8V-64uxOdrck-BYyGecAiRT_M_NswLsso7TIoroDvNFKvVudbzH-J_xKWdLr6gTbJ5kNL9lNPwT6SSLhRouFLWBXJDv2vNgiU8klA8D5o18MFLbC6wRmsj4oWNVpvBHbFdWoIFcnX97Tv9jxp1ZIPBrztevPSDyhOpTv8ixC1kSs6klepDUP2rtKWeKi/w640-h435/025%20P1500672.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Katie is wondering if it’s possible to train one of these things, you know, a bit like a pit bull terrier, she’d be the envy of everyone she knows, walking round with a Ghoul on a lead.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjciKzjEfg2y6j73OhQyF9Cv481AJoRL763QWOeBVPgTQvMkiUhw86LG5XWWYlKTxsvCnyMWwyVEvPJ5iDlu4igi9zJBuxfflrH0giFVUTF4-CztduyEFJyZqhh29Wc31mn9FkxFKhoCqkbjjhiC5r3eGtRtnd-e3DBWbRaF8UYtc6xNNWEyssrbqoGMEK/s700/026%20P1500674.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="525" data-original-width="700" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjciKzjEfg2y6j73OhQyF9Cv481AJoRL763QWOeBVPgTQvMkiUhw86LG5XWWYlKTxsvCnyMWwyVEvPJ5iDlu4igi9zJBuxfflrH0giFVUTF4-CztduyEFJyZqhh29Wc31mn9FkxFKhoCqkbjjhiC5r3eGtRtnd-e3DBWbRaF8UYtc6xNNWEyssrbqoGMEK/w640-h480/026%20P1500674.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Petra Stanislav doesn’t give a damn, she moves and fires, killing Katie’s new pet….dead. Katie reflects that’s probably the best outcome.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigfEE-bBQKudBNvmxoEHkARfUD9ek6Pcgge1bq2ijbJ6dxuSDAjeyhtZ7Th-_XZJq79LF55_eteLhnqbw_OyXY3RgIPJs-LlI8bvKlnjESuVREjA8tWvzdEtOUARGSvF1pFvEwauUVX9eueftwebS1flYsTOqP9kmXYGamj1egPVvTogricNBC7UWVwkCO/s700/027%20P1500675.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="525" data-original-width="700" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigfEE-bBQKudBNvmxoEHkARfUD9ek6Pcgge1bq2ijbJ6dxuSDAjeyhtZ7Th-_XZJq79LF55_eteLhnqbw_OyXY3RgIPJs-LlI8bvKlnjESuVREjA8tWvzdEtOUARGSvF1pFvEwauUVX9eueftwebS1flYsTOqP9kmXYGamj1egPVvTogricNBC7UWVwkCO/w640-h480/027%20P1500675.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Start of a new turn and there’s only 1 zombie left standing, however there’s only Katie still on her feet in the compound and time is ticking.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCGjK3p1nxgkwx981A3-3az8ywOiNqxRA5R2smfTwByYCFbFZALbJVNgRjNkOBR0IkhrxjN12XE_AFDPg_CqfBhbGUnHcJ0vnudqMlMh1AEELiGQZkCGu9lu27enfSYYZH_BYiaVBI67AVvv2_pVbKaFFREWQqwUju7LN2Z_0NGxa4j8F3ztSqzVtyGbKr/s700/028%20P1500678.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="525" data-original-width="700" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCGjK3p1nxgkwx981A3-3az8ywOiNqxRA5R2smfTwByYCFbFZALbJVNgRjNkOBR0IkhrxjN12XE_AFDPg_CqfBhbGUnHcJ0vnudqMlMh1AEELiGQZkCGu9lu27enfSYYZH_BYiaVBI67AVvv2_pVbKaFFREWQqwUju7LN2Z_0NGxa4j8F3ztSqzVtyGbKr/w640-h480/028%20P1500678.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>The zombie moves towards Katie but Donovan blows it away just before it reaches her. Stanislav shouts “That’s Silas” then mumbles “Well it was Silas”</div><div><br /></div><div>Katie thinking on her feet, moves forward and searches his corpse, with a lucky roll she finds the key to the gate padlock and throws it to Donovan. Donovan opens the gate nest turn. Well at least she won’t have to climb back.</div><div><br /></div><div>Hans and Schmidtt make use of their Medipacks and they’ll be ready to move soon but will it be soon enough.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVHj6nzdJIkHHxcBaf1QvcKub8R_bsZSxtoX40CY2gkckJIPiWJqN_aPZcpU5CbSVuSBYucC3mj5rjto6X7LLbDl65mCV0JCgGagj3RobQFVN0DtG5n54GStvIVNjWNQr8GJtR1iw2M1_HT3JU4AjRnE2sDjdTdr5Nsk2aP5QFAXetj1AAeYfIwUieoDwt/s700/029%20P1500679.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="458" data-original-width="700" height="418" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVHj6nzdJIkHHxcBaf1QvcKub8R_bsZSxtoX40CY2gkckJIPiWJqN_aPZcpU5CbSVuSBYucC3mj5rjto6X7LLbDl65mCV0JCgGagj3RobQFVN0DtG5n54GStvIVNjWNQr8GJtR1iw2M1_HT3JU4AjRnE2sDjdTdr5Nsk2aP5QFAXetj1AAeYfIwUieoDwt/w640-h418/029%20P1500679.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>The wandering Hot Spot wanders around the corner of the compound and sees Freddie, they move towards him mumbling and grumbling something about brains, Freddie thinks that’s a bit rude so shoots one of them, as Stanislav moves over in support, I’m not sure Freddie needs support but it’s the thought that counts.</div><div><br /></div><div>Freddie and Stanislav continue to fire into the advancing zombies to no avail.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLm3cE3DHv9En_x0UnJFq8-VScTpdOcZHMH2QZowq2tr1w4fj3ZWIVIt4FPKTI3hXCOyB5qZTzdlrexoSRCEFQpMOLBwcdPZyJ4XOzSxLFlVwzoDhmLJLSomlYeRku3SBvX9B1ixMXcijKCBgsayZFBHRlmIS1LRdg7kCQawbDEEW854aaxRJ7qhC_5k7y/s700/030%20P1500680.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="525" data-original-width="700" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLm3cE3DHv9En_x0UnJFq8-VScTpdOcZHMH2QZowq2tr1w4fj3ZWIVIt4FPKTI3hXCOyB5qZTzdlrexoSRCEFQpMOLBwcdPZyJ4XOzSxLFlVwzoDhmLJLSomlYeRku3SBvX9B1ixMXcijKCBgsayZFBHRlmIS1LRdg7kCQawbDEEW854aaxRJ7qhC_5k7y/w640-h480/030%20P1500680.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Katie rushes to the shed but doesn’t find anything. That failure is replicated by Hans when he searches the tent. Schmitt examines the truck and with yet another lucky dice roll discovers that the keys are still in the ignition.</div><div><br /></div><div>Lets get the hell out of here yells Donovan and everyone starts to run for home. With a head start Freddie Donovan and Stanislav are making good time but the three in the compound aren’t going to be so lucky until Schmitt turns the key and the trucks engine bursts into life, Katie and Hans jump on board.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYoAVntf2d9T604uI9B4vGmUCM2-_lInUOujguxYVyKfAFly7MIN8vCTohLk6emssL89HTkgS3UiAmGOKXbO78SJZISBX4giM9hz7dLFqEEFegerP7urYqdne9H9p2vC8hW2n0eDmjtwbVDio7GTb4h4yr7FxqeIp5aulHVEQP6j2CKIwDyJdQHJWKV_9i/s700/031%20P1500681.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="700" height="494" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYoAVntf2d9T604uI9B4vGmUCM2-_lInUOujguxYVyKfAFly7MIN8vCTohLk6emssL89HTkgS3UiAmGOKXbO78SJZISBX4giM9hz7dLFqEEFegerP7urYqdne9H9p2vC8hW2n0eDmjtwbVDio7GTb4h4yr7FxqeIp5aulHVEQP6j2CKIwDyJdQHJWKV_9i/w640-h494/031%20P1500681.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>This is at the end of the 7th move, as the Army patrol are going to come on the 8th I gave the game to Donovan, I think they deserve it.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3eF-CzGbLOVy5azBcuCi2H6DoH4ZksUH63b4jeM8MGxRb9dx0cIrUzLRQ10HxJpYOi92Prp8gjBqGdBWFnxMN8GahoU0KLflFLtsKsbeiWu81bmGbwtjOZ6xoFqBRkvOWiUr5s-R25FGl9JDMYzWsfD1537A2EoBNNGeKDaa-56eabIoRO7g1C8To8gDf/s700/032%20P1500685.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="700" height="412" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3eF-CzGbLOVy5azBcuCi2H6DoH4ZksUH63b4jeM8MGxRb9dx0cIrUzLRQ10HxJpYOi92Prp8gjBqGdBWFnxMN8GahoU0KLflFLtsKsbeiWu81bmGbwtjOZ6xoFqBRkvOWiUr5s-R25FGl9JDMYzWsfD1537A2EoBNNGeKDaa-56eabIoRO7g1C8To8gDf/w640-h412/032%20P1500685.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Schmidtt is actually supposed to be inside the truck but I’m not cutting my figures in half for effect, you’ll just have to imagine it.</div><div><br /></div><div>Donovan is a little out of breath but will soon commandeer a ride.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3zxMaB3fzWLjK3E29fC9mHJmwN_9EDJZ16AdaAhu_Ll0lyDfbNDxntEDXp1DI9OD99_vBuAkESdJd5nlHlWfVDovIcKx0A5wmQU25AHDb7GjvGAQdBGB7iYfa9uyxY3klMsf3jcrUUOqULDQA5fPIcq7Cr07G8ljmtNtW86KW7bX3TgBhCSaZB_G1Un1V/s700/033%20P1500686.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="446" data-original-width="700" height="408" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3zxMaB3fzWLjK3E29fC9mHJmwN_9EDJZ16AdaAhu_Ll0lyDfbNDxntEDXp1DI9OD99_vBuAkESdJd5nlHlWfVDovIcKx0A5wmQU25AHDb7GjvGAQdBGB7iYfa9uyxY3klMsf3jcrUUOqULDQA5fPIcq7Cr07G8ljmtNtW86KW7bX3TgBhCSaZB_G1Un1V/w640-h408/033%20P1500686.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Freddie and Petra Stanislav are enjoying their jog across the desert, I wonder who will win?</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh516d9yxkKdnuG2WCox_jRhwQzUp5JBFtYOj8tfTPVAr9AWB9a86uqf_t2YFGlUq0Bs3Ak-6kiirbfhhH2L1v5_Xd05Hq5H7tJcg26UcDvo7QF5l6Ecq-x680w2ckx_-jYGQEEvKURA1hKpnknJDGuPZTvqcb8LYuheReWWXfaTjbiiLVSURAvUgdrbHYw/s700/034%20P1500683.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="432" data-original-width="700" height="394" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh516d9yxkKdnuG2WCox_jRhwQzUp5JBFtYOj8tfTPVAr9AWB9a86uqf_t2YFGlUq0Bs3Ak-6kiirbfhhH2L1v5_Xd05Hq5H7tJcg26UcDvo7QF5l6Ecq-x680w2ckx_-jYGQEEvKURA1hKpnknJDGuPZTvqcb8LYuheReWWXfaTjbiiLVSURAvUgdrbHYw/w640-h394/034%20P1500683.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Not these guy’s, that’s for sure, they are more my kind of shambling runners.</div><div><br /></div><div>Well Captain Andy Donovan now knows what Homeland Security wouldn’t tell him. Something has gone awfully wrong in the Yuma Proving Ground and the secure perimeter isn’t secure. The following day the army pulled back from the Yellow perimeter fence and took over control from Donovan at the outer fence of the Blue Zone.</div><div><br /></div><div>Donovan has seen the Senator or is it a Governor of a State and been given some unequivocal orders that hopefully will be revealed in due course.</div><div><br /></div><div>Katie Monk has no evidence to confront the worlds press with but it confirms her previous assertions, maybe her Editor can overturn the previous decision on her foray into the Mojave Desert in search of ……… Redacted……..</div></div><div><br /></div><div>I'm still not sure where I'm going with this campaign but I'm enjoying the games so far.</div><div><br /></div><div>It's always nice to hear from any one who reads this gibberish. </div><div>Cheers</div><div><br /></div>Vagabondhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14031648950206231742noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7655102169795953648.post-32081828379387407842023-09-16T20:39:00.001+01:002023-09-16T20:39:13.359+01:00Yuma Proving Ground - Game 2 - BackgroundZone Alfa Game 2<div><br /></div><div>I was in the Easy Does It Roadhouse and wondering how I was going to get out of the place without being eaten alive when Andy Donovan strode into the joint with Police Woman Petra Stanislav. He looked at Stanislav and she nodded in my direction and they both ambled over. Donovan looked at me and then addressed the immaculate woman across the table, saying “I know who this is but might I have the pleasure of knowing who you are and why you are sat opposite a Vagabond”.</div><div><br /></div><div> Katie Monk smiled her hard but winning smile and said “I work for the Global Tribune, I met Mr Black and some of his associates back in 18, they helped me on a job, and my name’s Ms Monk, but you can call me Katie”.</div><div>“I’m down here on a story but Mr Black isn’t being very helpful, he keeps talking about a confidentiality agreement he signed with Homeland Security and he seems to think they are scarier than I am”, she smiled again. Captain Andy Donovan smiled right back at her, “Well Katie that’s why I’m here as well, Homeland Security are not the most communicative of organisations and I was expecting to get a little help from Vincent as to what he’s been involved in recently. I tried to look small and insignificant, which is difficult for a 6’2” Biker who would like to be a Hell’s Angel’s. “Look” I stammered and played my trump card, the 2 of clubs, “go and talk to Silas, if anyone knows what is going on in the desert, it’s Silas”.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTn4q7h_HFpYUhL5ZDHuaAMkmON-hWUGd2cK4SqLx9mjqyJNDEZ5Nf_XNpFzOrABXmSdbWMUS3aHscB9NcDoVjkfBrc6IuFnFzlhpsb6WktiqCUGrsWHB8mImM5d2GqckypPj9cwxMDzDR98tZqt7sA1cWSVAelRFsE1ofj68iGnBZghq-h2JC7QxIpFU3/s800/001%20P1500649.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="438" data-original-width="800" height="350" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTn4q7h_HFpYUhL5ZDHuaAMkmON-hWUGd2cK4SqLx9mjqyJNDEZ5Nf_XNpFzOrABXmSdbWMUS3aHscB9NcDoVjkfBrc6IuFnFzlhpsb6WktiqCUGrsWHB8mImM5d2GqckypPj9cwxMDzDR98tZqt7sA1cWSVAelRFsE1ofj68iGnBZghq-h2JC7QxIpFU3/w640-h350/001%20P1500649.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Silas, on the left and his brother Bull.</div><div><br /></div><div>They live closer to the Yuma Proving Ground than anyone else and they refused to move when the Army came to enforce the Exclusion Zone. The small patrol of a corporal and a couple of men backed off when Silas waved his shotgun around in their general direction and they moved on to more amenable homesteaders.</div><div><br /></div><div>When you live off grid, sometimes you fall through the cracks and the Army had lost track of the fact that two old men were still out there and hadn’t gone back to ensure they moved out.</div><div><br /></div><div>“And where might I find this Silas” Captain Andy Donovan enquired of me. “I know Sir” chipped in Stanislav, I think she might have taken a shine to big Andy “he’s only a couple of hours from the wire, it’s a bit of a walk but I can take you there”.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_N6ZsZZWVMtEMSlWquvcbtS8LziYNYvmP6O7rAoASbyS75ExFIvXPOXY-i9Mcr2PgsoZmsr3bENiJDuMsF0ZtYsOabPwPe_NzLAz23mRxYKMq72D_RGADIiBnppLOFf7eGxI0RH_j16eKYD7H1qzc7Lnv0qQ_chqJuVJNfy-nBohjiO1N4Iq3V4C9tUod/s700/002%20P1500630.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="395" data-original-width="700" height="362" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_N6ZsZZWVMtEMSlWquvcbtS8LziYNYvmP6O7rAoASbyS75ExFIvXPOXY-i9Mcr2PgsoZmsr3bENiJDuMsF0ZtYsOabPwPe_NzLAz23mRxYKMq72D_RGADIiBnppLOFf7eGxI0RH_j16eKYD7H1qzc7Lnv0qQ_chqJuVJNfy-nBohjiO1N4Iq3V4C9tUod/w640-h362/002%20P1500630.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Donovan as you may remember is Senator McGivvens chosen Law Enforcement Officer and heads up the recently inaugurated Special Operating Detection & Investigation Team in charge of security in the outer zone.</div><div><br /></div><div>He might be in charge of S.O.D.I.T. but was getting very little cooperation and even less information from Homeland Security and felt he needed to know what was going on in the Zone he was guarding.</div><div><br /></div><div>He’d brought a small but hand picked cadre of men with him and he’s taken them, along with some of the local law enforcement team on a Recon mission to find Silas. His aim is to circumnavigate Homeland Security and get into the zone himself to take a look and assess the situation first hand.</div><div><br /></div><div>He’s explaining to James Lamont and Diaz that they need to protect his back door. “I don’t have much faith in this bunch of clowns who call themselves Law Officers, we’re going into a dangerous situation and I want a couple of reliable men out here for when we return.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjisXjrhhgDoFLq2p45qzXvgA7ok-V_ZgAoN4hKURNfrdZdI3bxqyty0s2LhWcYsxYkXETj2RZzFReJZAyk8MdICpjD_tCk88FNaH5Co1-wfcLM_SIOujO69-6zTwExFnZlO400RUWSjNRRR_9XJb7XCJ1jXyXlfbSy0bs1Uu1CSb5ROX1-iupV5i4KrFz9/s700/003%20P1500627.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="525" data-original-width="700" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjisXjrhhgDoFLq2p45qzXvgA7ok-V_ZgAoN4hKURNfrdZdI3bxqyty0s2LhWcYsxYkXETj2RZzFReJZAyk8MdICpjD_tCk88FNaH5Co1-wfcLM_SIOujO69-6zTwExFnZlO400RUWSjNRRR_9XJb7XCJ1jXyXlfbSy0bs1Uu1CSb5ROX1-iupV5i4KrFz9/w640-h480/003%20P1500627.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>This is the bunch of clowns he’s referring to, they’re members of the police force in a small town and not used to this sort of emergency. As it turns out, no one is!</div><div><br /></div><div>Behind them is a watchtower and Aguila is instructing Walter and Norman to man the tower. She is afraid of heights otherwise she would have taken this prestigious position. As it is she decides that Big Jim Floyd should remain on the ground. An unkind person might wonder if that is so Jim can provide some protection for her, should it be needed.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmZ9Yufl8H9tx95y04AladD6JwcnKhe8w8ANbAwiKNFrzt9GbvBgxWBSHt01j8tg2YBE8i_O0S6eW5KMNDA2kFDzexusnBX7bgL4AndKfGUVF5ShPaEo6yn1qN62hj_e23YPIOP7nfnw99vsZB4nzZI_PiEMF946CzgogokCobMMVYl3tPFQQ3cYRYDDHN/s700/004%20P1500633.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="460" data-original-width="700" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmZ9Yufl8H9tx95y04AladD6JwcnKhe8w8ANbAwiKNFrzt9GbvBgxWBSHt01j8tg2YBE8i_O0S6eW5KMNDA2kFDzexusnBX7bgL4AndKfGUVF5ShPaEo6yn1qN62hj_e23YPIOP7nfnw99vsZB4nzZI_PiEMF946CzgogokCobMMVYl3tPFQQ3cYRYDDHN/w640-h420/004%20P1500633.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>The outer fence around the new exclusion zone had been erected very quickly and consisted of a double ring of wire and a beaten zone between them. There are no gates near where Donovan is going in and he doesn’t want to cut the wire for obvious reasons.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhV4QAYjv0j14I6zMasa6JZVRrZenTV2k0FpeYxKuzZYrRYsHeh7lhfv1KjcxOpb7uoR_keMl-zfW-WMZTlDdqGTvBh_OYj-mUCTk9ogxIrHirxdbZ44C-xICmzu-dXiLX3_hRi_djlQQa4GDv3IL6Pn5HndaqOYc8k7QPgN5YaUXebFxPZ1Bs42aHasI2R/s700/005%20P1500631.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="371" data-original-width="700" height="340" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhV4QAYjv0j14I6zMasa6JZVRrZenTV2k0FpeYxKuzZYrRYsHeh7lhfv1KjcxOpb7uoR_keMl-zfW-WMZTlDdqGTvBh_OYj-mUCTk9ogxIrHirxdbZ44C-xICmzu-dXiLX3_hRi_djlQQa4GDv3IL6Pn5HndaqOYc8k7QPgN5YaUXebFxPZ1Bs42aHasI2R/w640-h340/005%20P1500631.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>This is just a gratuitous shot to show the watch tower.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPsbzcTfDK0itLhktXEm7UO7yUHjAd0LhCorOO57YsA0gQW_G0L_muNJtvuguZfkV8GiJA_GnkctO55lopYu_4ObR6k8NdghRjf-P6PdbqqjEDT_yc-U_SV0LLqF30GPtpT1OA-w70QPwpLatffHuwAJiY9A51yzoWs0L_T1ZGvmUnIdxAw96w1aK371r6/s700/006%20P1500639.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="525" data-original-width="700" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPsbzcTfDK0itLhktXEm7UO7yUHjAd0LhCorOO57YsA0gQW_G0L_muNJtvuguZfkV8GiJA_GnkctO55lopYu_4ObR6k8NdghRjf-P6PdbqqjEDT_yc-U_SV0LLqF30GPtpT1OA-w70QPwpLatffHuwAJiY9A51yzoWs0L_T1ZGvmUnIdxAw96w1aK371r6/w640-h480/006%20P1500639.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>This is the team he’s taking in with him, Willhelm Schmidtt and Hans Ludenstein are the other part of his hand picked body of men. Both armed with pump action shotguns, B.A. Pistols and a truncheon. In addition they have a medikit each, something they would be grateful for.</div><div><br /></div><div>Petra you’ve met, she has a pistol and truncheon, also a pair of handcuffs for those dark lonely nights, in spite of her youth she’s a good cop, best in her year and a crack shot as well.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmQy9DoQz3Tp5Xf8YRjQpbLBK1wdQaPwZ-AoZAPYjQ2Cf2DZ9GU7gzVO8KCKOUv_t9zkrZ9BbrgbNg6n8aFD5UjxqF7SuRi4UijYYvgKoJAVVEIsMBcwQ_G_QeVDUve5wza_LQSMbAANmEioxEnWpW_HAcaf8wSSPxxM0YxMCefmlBeAUdprBdkkrGumpn/s700/007%20P1500636.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="467" data-original-width="700" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmQy9DoQz3Tp5Xf8YRjQpbLBK1wdQaPwZ-AoZAPYjQ2Cf2DZ9GU7gzVO8KCKOUv_t9zkrZ9BbrgbNg6n8aFD5UjxqF7SuRi4UijYYvgKoJAVVEIsMBcwQ_G_QeVDUve5wza_LQSMbAANmEioxEnWpW_HAcaf8wSSPxxM0YxMCefmlBeAUdprBdkkrGumpn/w640-h426/007%20P1500636.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>If you’ve got this far you may pause and wonder what a news crew is doing at this place, at this time, and you’d be right to wonder at that.</div><div><br /></div><div>It is, as usual, a long story, Katie Monk with her back to us but her face to the camera knew stuff…..stuff she’d not been allowed to print in the newspaper and she’d a score to settle. So in return for a solemn promise from the Law, she told Captain Donovan stuff……stuff that if some other Lawmen found out she’d passed on, she would find out just how scary Homeland Security could be. In return for this information Donovan had decided he’d better keep her close.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgp0KGIZqWwGAdC_5FZoIVg68npFCA8kHtJLTJQLNhnk5w_2yYrfU1p_mo2-Unb7KNyW6_GF-T0erDapnpeFeqPPpdQglIl_WbAbOHa9vQtX_YaAgHY76BAPHzaoynu0k9QUV16sgp4k3p3GH6F7hRATJ-pRsrbrkXh5mL-uyfmLVqYQ_Cc8vjHE9B2VF8B/s700/008%20P1500641.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="456" data-original-width="700" height="416" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgp0KGIZqWwGAdC_5FZoIVg68npFCA8kHtJLTJQLNhnk5w_2yYrfU1p_mo2-Unb7KNyW6_GF-T0erDapnpeFeqPPpdQglIl_WbAbOHa9vQtX_YaAgHY76BAPHzaoynu0k9QUV16sgp4k3p3GH6F7hRATJ-pRsrbrkXh5mL-uyfmLVqYQ_Cc8vjHE9B2VF8B/w640-h416/008%20P1500641.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>He’s explaining about rules of engagement to Big Freddie who is Katie’s bodyguard and private security. “You don’t shoot anybody or indeed anything unless I give you a direct order, have you got that” Freddie looks bored and nods, he knows that if he was to count the bodies he’d shot, it would need a few more fingers and toes than he currently had. That’s without the “things,” that would need a few more fingers and toes.</div><div><br /></div><div>Donovan didn’t think he needed to give the same lecture to Katie Monk but he was wrong, although she would have taken no more notice than Freddie did.</div><div><br /></div><div>In the background or I suppose it’s really the foreground Donald shoots footage of the exchange. He’s under strict instructions that everything will be censored by Donovan. Donald will only take his instructions from Katie so isn’t worried by the censorship.</div><div><br /></div><div>In the background the men and women who do the hard lifting are lifting the pair of ladders into place so that they can cross the first fence.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitahpMzBWnPXblWdWUQPEJI41GKT6leuK5wKXb48DSRJ_TK3yF0ZM-MRI4BXjSrLJKNfDJNq3z2W4myrj-4Hrj4TpiuJbhR_a3AYxGt1miYNP2YfiaxaBQ0OtGNpdHz935SPkdWwKvIHt-Wfw490tofZTocDB-TzHdZA78L7EX0-ndZYuBRI8hm8VyY_b_/s700/009%20P1500643.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="434" data-original-width="700" height="396" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitahpMzBWnPXblWdWUQPEJI41GKT6leuK5wKXb48DSRJ_TK3yF0ZM-MRI4BXjSrLJKNfDJNq3z2W4myrj-4Hrj4TpiuJbhR_a3AYxGt1miYNP2YfiaxaBQ0OtGNpdHz935SPkdWwKvIHt-Wfw490tofZTocDB-TzHdZA78L7EX0-ndZYuBRI8hm8VyY_b_/w640-h396/009%20P1500643.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Donovan recognises that Freddie is probably the most experienced man on the expedition, and he’s not part of Donovan’s team either, which makes him more expendable than the others. So he puts Freddie on point, flanked by Hans and Schmidtt.</div><div><br /></div><div>Freddie knows the score and also knows his own capability so isn’t worried by this.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi55RQyo77SzUr7-FhsayrtTeOnLzGVlZ6vuhVDFFFGemKp_gS4hA4Bg9698ssS6Z9K31B87EexAGqR3j4oM7DioK9nufh8Ffa9q1RYEKzdilP_Ckc-weOAhcrwAi_XYGUI1NThS4tj1ZeKKfyACDMN0-bDKU3Cz-3mrxhUXQgRDd1QnneWxyDKjxCKYRfO/s700/010%20P1500644.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="435" data-original-width="700" height="398" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi55RQyo77SzUr7-FhsayrtTeOnLzGVlZ6vuhVDFFFGemKp_gS4hA4Bg9698ssS6Z9K31B87EexAGqR3j4oM7DioK9nufh8Ffa9q1RYEKzdilP_Ckc-weOAhcrwAi_XYGUI1NThS4tj1ZeKKfyACDMN0-bDKU3Cz-3mrxhUXQgRDd1QnneWxyDKjxCKYRfO/w640-h398/010%20P1500644.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Donald Tronji gets a last shot of the crew heading off into the desert. He’s already got the film layout planned, I counted them out and I counted them in. I know it’s been done before he thinks, but that was a long time ago, no one will remember that…..surely.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijGwuJDnF7xrgE6M1P74KVBvrfcCBJ2XDBMIyHfP8v9zK0gZY1IZ9QK8E_f1eOTfhHqyxxmAwePP1nQR_AiPiDjcCMDaYoQ6C6ClB8XZ6hiWBtX3XFhoD74q9sG2dx_4S0t4yxba1XEbqNbT0FSZHvvXlK7TMtMVJ5Wx4cSRWMw9vwF4Nfs7leZzSHh8Io/s700/011%20P1500650.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="436" data-original-width="700" height="398" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijGwuJDnF7xrgE6M1P74KVBvrfcCBJ2XDBMIyHfP8v9zK0gZY1IZ9QK8E_f1eOTfhHqyxxmAwePP1nQR_AiPiDjcCMDaYoQ6C6ClB8XZ6hiWBtX3XFhoD74q9sG2dx_4S0t4yxba1XEbqNbT0FSZHvvXlK7TMtMVJ5Wx4cSRWMw9vwF4Nfs7leZzSHh8Io/w640-h398/011%20P1500650.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>As they head towards their destination the three at the back seem to be bunched up more than is tactically wise but some times the women gravitate towards a handsome man, although Andy isn’t a handsome man, he is big and that might just suffice.</div>Vagabondhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14031648950206231742noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7655102169795953648.post-91541096604776813112023-09-14T17:11:00.001+01:002023-09-14T17:12:05.741+01:00Yuma Proving Ground - Aftermath<div>This is the concluding part of a three part story and if anyone reads it then it should be in this order.</div><div><br /></div><div><a href="http://vagabondswargamingblog.blogspot.com/2023/08/the-yuma-proving-ground.html" target="_blank">Part 1</a> <a href="http://vagabondswargamingblog.blogspot.com/2023/09/yuma-proving-ground-action.html" target="_blank">Part 2</a> Then this one, the 3rd Part<br /></div><div><br /></div>LOOTERS ARRESTED<div><br /></div><div>Police and National Guardsmen assisted by the U.S. Army have arrested a gang of looters near the Yuma Proving Ground, they are currently awaiting processing in Fort Huachuca. A spokesman close to Senator McGivvens has confirmed there will be a zero policy of tolerance towards any looting in the area and Government Agencies have been granted special powers of arrest and internment until the Emergency is over.</div><div><br /></div><div>McGivvens has allocated funds to set up a Special Operating Detection & Investigation Team to combat further incursions into what is now known locally as “The Forbidden Zone”</div><div><br /></div><div>Captain Andy Donovan has been seconded from his previous assignment as Police Chief of Little Whiskey to head up this crack force, in retirement since the Mabel Street Mob gunned him down in the famous Little Whiskey Bank Raid he says he’s raring to go and I quote “You can’t keep a good man down”. He is also quoted as saying “with age comes experience”, or it might have been “with experience comes age”.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgicIRcAXnhnom6WlQCRvQ2P6NDDhEm0awgw9PxcIaCQeY77e2H2ea1x0Ep2rqOX_z1-OwhoEgO7-aZpeL4GeSWLFZ7cNRlp896ybCH5bARGWYlNihelSJko4fpVpOb7eBu7s3TTbD8QyTjSgLI4cdqdWQKLKvoDPHZAj2vhb-78bRBvt3HVg59cVtICX0Y/s700/a016%20IMG_6121.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="493" data-original-width="700" height="450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgicIRcAXnhnom6WlQCRvQ2P6NDDhEm0awgw9PxcIaCQeY77e2H2ea1x0Ep2rqOX_z1-OwhoEgO7-aZpeL4GeSWLFZ7cNRlp896ybCH5bARGWYlNihelSJko4fpVpOb7eBu7s3TTbD8QyTjSgLI4cdqdWQKLKvoDPHZAj2vhb-78bRBvt3HVg59cVtICX0Y/w640-h450/a016%20IMG_6121.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Captain Andy Donovan just before being shot by members of the Mabel Street Mob.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0_-qzHi3TEN7HLrBVUGiEy-yjKVZGM05F890k3l7F0BNP3c5kauFuyDnXi-1OqVg9jIO8Jp4vTtA1ZkgG3MbwXBcMMpFr2cct0r6iqkeFg1UlcHyTdjfRdpI7vEZCrHhwX4SEUV5qU0a7bIZeGjWA07uwxUlZNpCReaft8OZrez1D0D5-OkqFPaWDOaVt/s700/a017%20IMG_6122.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="413" data-original-width="700" height="378" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0_-qzHi3TEN7HLrBVUGiEy-yjKVZGM05F890k3l7F0BNP3c5kauFuyDnXi-1OqVg9jIO8Jp4vTtA1ZkgG3MbwXBcMMpFr2cct0r6iqkeFg1UlcHyTdjfRdpI7vEZCrHhwX4SEUV5qU0a7bIZeGjWA07uwxUlZNpCReaft8OZrez1D0D5-OkqFPaWDOaVt/w640-h378/a017%20IMG_6122.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Captain Andy Donovan just after the cowardly act.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>He’s had an illustrious and varied career making his reputation as a successful lawman leading the famous Tail Feathers Roadhouse Raid, capturing one of the Mabel Street Mob in a brilliant dawn attack. Unfortunately they were rescued when he was in charge of transferring them to the State Penitentiary but as he said at the time….“sh*t happens”. It also happened when he was in leading a raid by the Revenue men and got badly bitten by a dog, but as he said at the time….“sh*t happens. His crowning glory though was arresting Alexandria Lorne the well known business woman and smuggler in the Uranium Hand Off. On her way to the police station she was heard to say……“sh*t happens”.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGIof5iYDPV64Aq2FPL_rwL3yEdVxIpApvO3ttKOLtkxl-0azHfw1eTcF6kPRWufIoLFsEYIuY9JnpAsNCp1NqHYgsj487pse67zQnPs2WZqdad0aREVWEL5UgW2p9ObGvmnJWt0laVhF2qWBXmH_8PYwrbDEBYqZCoXP5h1h0-7L8oLTbSPv7cjXtcaXL/s800/002%20IMG_2491%20-%20800.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="800" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGIof5iYDPV64Aq2FPL_rwL3yEdVxIpApvO3ttKOLtkxl-0azHfw1eTcF6kPRWufIoLFsEYIuY9JnpAsNCp1NqHYgsj487pse67zQnPs2WZqdad0aREVWEL5UgW2p9ObGvmnJWt0laVhF2qWBXmH_8PYwrbDEBYqZCoXP5h1h0-7L8oLTbSPv7cjXtcaXL/w640-h480/002%20IMG_2491%20-%20800.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Taken on the morning of the Tail Feathers Roadhouse Raid, Donovan with a crack squad of fellow officers.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoWDyZ-T9oFtsDHDHoHsifxGmU2Fw0nRqQtB4Qp9x_Mt1zUgJqVWQuD7RxojAkhKP5pxFayWoWSw_sydsST7FaoltBak2Z7_8rQLUfsSA8BlwNbrIeLF0ZgJ1CSfZpUv87IWYc4bXBHveXrgO7v1SyeXo2-LGoYqYmitt3lWm6uFm-MVYIjxb3-c3L-WPl/s800/008%20IMG_1292.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="800" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoWDyZ-T9oFtsDHDHoHsifxGmU2Fw0nRqQtB4Qp9x_Mt1zUgJqVWQuD7RxojAkhKP5pxFayWoWSw_sydsST7FaoltBak2Z7_8rQLUfsSA8BlwNbrIeLF0ZgJ1CSfZpUv87IWYc4bXBHveXrgO7v1SyeXo2-LGoYqYmitt3lWm6uFm-MVYIjxb3-c3L-WPl/w640-h480/008%20IMG_1292.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Andy Donovan leading the Revenue Agents in the Ozark Mountains, just before being bitten by the dog.</div><div><br /></div><div>I put down the Yuma Gazette and pondered over the last few days.</div><div><br /></div><div>We had been in the Fort Huachuca prison block for 24 hours and 35 minutes when a guard roused me out of solitary and led me along a dark grey corridor into a brightly lit room. A man in a black suit was sitting behind a small table. He looked me up and down with distaste and said “Sign this and we can go”</div><div><br /></div><div>“Go….go where” I asked not liking the sound of this at all. “Florida, Tahiti, Home, I don’t know, and I don’t care, sign this and I’ve done my job” he snarled. This was the first time I’d met Captain Andy Donovan and he didn’t seem to like me, or maybe bikers in general.</div><div><br /></div><div>“It’s a waiver and a confidentiality agreement” he continued. “You forget everything you saw yesterday including the people from the Asylum and we’ll forget that you shot and killed a little girl and her family”. “They were zombies” I blurted out, “not from an Asylum”. “Don’t be ridiculous” he snapped, “there’s no such thing as Zombies and if the men in White Suits get brought into this, you will be the one in an Asylum”.</div><div><br /></div><div>The door opened and Ulrika walked in, “Just sign it” she said and I did.</div><div><br /></div><div>It turned out that Ulrika and Desire had entered Ebenezer’s Bar just as the Authorities arrived, she’d taken some pictures of the Zombie corpses with her phone, before searching the bar for Alice, you remember Alice, this story is about Alice. Recovering Alice and some bottles of Malt Whiskey to help ease everyone’s pain and a gas mask, for no good reason, they left quietly and weren’t discovered by the search teams.</div><div><br /></div><div>Threats to release the photos, footage from the surveillance camera that was still transmitting to Franks laptop and a smart lawyer meant she was able to do a deal. Silence in exchange for freedom.</div><div><br /></div><div>No one has heard from the looters since the incident, they obviously didn’t have Ulrika on their case.</div><div><br /></div><div>So we’re all out good behaviour, some more battered and bruised than others. Incidentally Big Dave pulled through with just a scar, a lucky 6 that he’s particularly grateful for.</div><div><br /></div><div>Eight Ball and his father have never stopped reminiscing about the Pool Table that’s languishing in the Bar, the best in Arizona.</div><div><br /></div><div>I keep wondering what Zombies were doing wandering around Ebenezer’s Place, had they heard of the best pool table in Arizona, seems unlikely.</div><div><br /></div><div>Big Dave keeps showing everyone his scar and says getting shot ain’t so bad, we should all try it.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>Somethings brewing and someone, sometime, is bound to suggest we go and take another look…..I might just go with them.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>OK that’s a wrap.</div><div><br /></div><div>In Campaign terms we used 3 medikits $825, 5 Electric Juice potions $550 and 2 grenades $300 Total $1675 and gained Salvage worth $350 and a gas mask worth $200 Total $550.</div><div><br /></div><div>I’ll have to read about Anomalies….they seem to be worth cash money, otherwise we aren’t going to be able to pay our bar tab at the Easy Does It Roadhouse, let alone the one at Ferret’s All Night Pool Hall.</div><div><br /></div><div>Thanks for reading and it's always encouraging when someone leaves a comment.</div><div><br /></div><div>Cheers</div>Vagabondhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14031648950206231742noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7655102169795953648.post-83960736277918554752023-09-11T21:11:00.002+01:002023-09-11T21:11:34.862+01:00Yuma Proving Ground - The Action<div>I don't think I mentioned in the first post about the Yuma Proving Ground background but I actually bought a set of rules, Zona Alfa. Set in some dystopian Russian universe after a second Chernobyl that didn't go well. It's based on a computer game that I've never heard of, let alone played, this was my first game using the core rules and I make some reference to that during the report. If you're familiar with the rules this will make some sense but if you're not just ignore my rambling. I originally posted on a forum that uses the rules and so was using that as a way of checking my understanding of things that didn't make sense to me at the time.</div><div><br /></div>The rules state, WUSIWUG – Each team will have a veteran leader and 3 to 9 other members – game board is 3’ or 4’ square – game duration is 4 + 1D3 turns long. Well this is my game and I’ll have none of that dictatorial nonsense from any rules writer.<div><br /></div><div>Everyone has a pistol, this is Arizona after all. Some have knives, chains and in the spirit of what you see is what you get I think 3 of them had grenades, although they only had 1. Bubble carries a pump action shotgun and not much else, Vincent and Big Dave have shotguns as well as multiple other weapons. They don’t subscribe to Bubble’s minimalist approach. Babe carries a huge revolver and a spiked war hammer, I think she’s from Games Workshop so is obviously spikey but she looks cool.</div><div><br /></div><div>Three of them had pouches of some sort and these contained medical kits, you know the sort of thing, a strong antiseptic like bourbon, to relieve the pain, a cork, to push into a wound and stop the bleeding, a bandage, to elicit sympathy from the female members of the crew. That sort of equipment.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgapAxDB3iksLN3Ba9TpBwDPOfJQP9oawhBQqHvKZSzGlWpWNVKrUEByP9JqG0M5YRi3bTLmOTtLW2uHyv9hMnxsAUZjmOhKmnEjqpJeutHVNf1u00ue7VXxdzkk6_BHMn5TflJi8flbO3Pps8u-p2uDO6rz-aKntEGASns6xlpjanw84jE6Q5Vd2n9oFXx/s700/009%20P1500622.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="399" data-original-width="700" height="364" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgapAxDB3iksLN3Ba9TpBwDPOfJQP9oawhBQqHvKZSzGlWpWNVKrUEByP9JqG0M5YRi3bTLmOTtLW2uHyv9hMnxsAUZjmOhKmnEjqpJeutHVNf1u00ue7VXxdzkk6_BHMn5TflJi8flbO3Pps8u-p2uDO6rz-aKntEGASns6xlpjanw84jE6Q5Vd2n9oFXx/w640-h364/009%20P1500622.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>You may remember we weren’t allowed to join the Hells Angels, we don’t discuss it because it’s a bit embarrassing but they said we weren’t tough enough. Everyone is green or inexperienced and we don’t have a leader, well that’s not strictly true. Fast Freddie who is a bit of a poser, he carries twin colts in a western rig and Big Willie vie with each other to take the gang leader role but we all know that Ulrika is the Brains as well as the Beauty in the gang. Of course she can’t be the leader because she’s a girl.</div><div><br /></div><div>There are 3 character levels in the rules, inexperienced characters take 1 action per turn, hard men take 2 and veterans take 3. Being green is a bit limiting.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQhtXLCJ0G0ei3ObqKXkE2JO8GJHsmpZXCnGKkGmbvWN-isfIy4R7c0hlpzROK0QaPjYfemuSqPmq6NIhwTtDmyK5dD8HUdepmqicK5hEva_shLV2b_Q_jXXkY2q8PHI8FK8NwqxXfS6Q8WN_jPCol8OsvWaJ1mfLXzzbqUvcpnYoK-OVGAKq8Cep-SDfI/s700/010%20P1500624.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="425" data-original-width="700" height="388" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQhtXLCJ0G0ei3ObqKXkE2JO8GJHsmpZXCnGKkGmbvWN-isfIy4R7c0hlpzROK0QaPjYfemuSqPmq6NIhwTtDmyK5dD8HUdepmqicK5hEva_shLV2b_Q_jXXkY2q8PHI8FK8NwqxXfS6Q8WN_jPCol8OsvWaJ1mfLXzzbqUvcpnYoK-OVGAKq8Cep-SDfI/w640-h388/010%20P1500624.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Arriving at a barrier in the road, Freddie said “It looks like they don’t want us to go any further”. Big Willie wanted to know what Quarantine meant. Both of them were looking a little dubious about the quest to rescue Alice.</div><div><br /></div><div>“Don’t be ridiculous” said Ulrika, “If we meet anyone we’ll just tell them we came in from the south and didn’t see the signs. They haven’t completed the fence yet so there’s nothing to keep us out”.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwc96PRxPidgn9fh64KgvTRQgqQ52wx2_bOFrpHh5o_tkjlcwiXja2tZudQjTGIRWQIcCzd24XjTLrw2nNm498yQUsHP3-0cQnT_hfNIlNT3PRm9d3t9LjUyXQmGoox4DXWO5Yr-daAXZvVUw3vQ23j0Eqvep94CxXH0mZRrvFowumw1tcwBPWA6i-gQ4z/s700/011%20P1500625.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="441" data-original-width="700" height="403" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwc96PRxPidgn9fh64KgvTRQgqQ52wx2_bOFrpHh5o_tkjlcwiXja2tZudQjTGIRWQIcCzd24XjTLrw2nNm498yQUsHP3-0cQnT_hfNIlNT3PRm9d3t9LjUyXQmGoox4DXWO5Yr-daAXZvVUw3vQ23j0Eqvep94CxXH0mZRrvFowumw1tcwBPWA6i-gQ4z/w640-h403/011%20P1500625.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>“Are you sure about this” said Fast Freddie when they came to the next sign.</div><div><br /></div><div>“Don’t be such a Jessie”, retorted Ulrika, “we’re not looting, we’re rescuing Alice and if there’s any beer left in the bar….well technically that belongs to Eight Balls dad so we can’t be looting something that’s already ours. Well….Ebenezer’s and he said we could have it, didn’t he Eight Ball”</div><div><br /></div><div>Eight Ball looked embarrassed, shuffled his feet in the sand and muttered “well I didn’t tell him we were coming in case he wouldn’t allow it”.</div><div><br /></div><div>Ulrika had a rather disbelieving look in her eye and I could see she finally understood why we hadn’t been allowed to join the Hell’s Angels, we would be more at home in the Hells Grannies Arizona Chapter. With a slight, incredulous shake of her head she turned and moved off the road, aiming to arrive at Ebenezer’s place from the south. We followed.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy0pqHqxQHZ5jvZwziwpfvYavgfSGJXMAvrXGuQgoO2zCDX0dv6cUYrWuqcdrDzNwYxiJrsxsbZN21luhCy_Ak5eoOEasxaqiw_RShbh8OKfW8K7Gm70CS3Nbq61lFsQMtV6qaRZ-aUkKUTXZD29UKrojhbnc2EymuGK_9uTjrPOS6SDsSDSTWi0t7CjIm/s700/012%20P1500597.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="447" data-original-width="700" height="408" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy0pqHqxQHZ5jvZwziwpfvYavgfSGJXMAvrXGuQgoO2zCDX0dv6cUYrWuqcdrDzNwYxiJrsxsbZN21luhCy_Ak5eoOEasxaqiw_RShbh8OKfW8K7Gm70CS3Nbq61lFsQMtV6qaRZ-aUkKUTXZD29UKrojhbnc2EymuGK_9uTjrPOS6SDsSDSTWi0t7CjIm/w640-h408/012%20P1500597.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>The rules call for a square board and starting 6” in from any edge. This board is 0.8 x 1.2m, so roughly the right area but wrong shape. Our objective is the Bar and the Hot Spots are the Gun Shop and Dora’s Crib, I didn’t place them symmetrically so rolled a dice to determine my start point, the white marker. Then rolled another dice to determine the number of turns the game would last, 6 turns. That means some event will happen on the start of the 7th turn that ends the game.</div><div><br /></div><div>Then I realised that all my characters were rookies and only have 1 action per turn, they have effectively a 6” move so can’t get to the Bar, search it and get off the table in 6 turns. My solution was that they would spend the night in the bar and have 6 turns to get inside, neutralise the opposition and search the place before getting down to looting/liberating Ebenezer’s stock of beer and whiskey and having a good time.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSoXjJ1wwawMY8CxHopcMJX5NBJahAS6ZSlFxCQTTlX5a_veBNUcAT8jK09-q_rdTss0BGbrTKW3_xCrMerFZ33kkVGrN73BFgIwLQ02pPuR1VwFkPsv6Rf986VZIAY4TBKk3ynr2Bi1BnInmV3t313AaMW7txpEvyN_K1hBry3pXh9uxiVv3UZBDu4RV0/s700/013%20P1500599.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="525" data-original-width="700" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSoXjJ1wwawMY8CxHopcMJX5NBJahAS6ZSlFxCQTTlX5a_veBNUcAT8jK09-q_rdTss0BGbrTKW3_xCrMerFZ33kkVGrN73BFgIwLQ02pPuR1VwFkPsv6Rf986VZIAY4TBKk3ynr2Bi1BnInmV3t313AaMW7txpEvyN_K1hBry3pXh9uxiVv3UZBDu4RV0/w640-h480/013%20P1500599.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Ulrika issued her commands, “Tank, you, Dave, Angie and Harley check out Franks gun shop and get to the Bar as quick as you can”. “The rest of you with me” and she strode off in the direction of the bar like a man whose been in the desert most of the day and has worked up a tidy thirst.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSPTdw13ujpw_-nfE9ISHmsykUpfPLonbLw9R5tK44FZNga9wMa-EvDiG9HxE7zyNl4F6FpumzsofWeVbI78gxX9uOB5VDxEWIPdQB42VsfBiFVXuyT9vuOygIwjjtexv8BrjlrdmjOZcfSibeyfdK-Nt-XAXAmRdU8gydfo34MOMS2w-Ln-_7sw93k7OU/s700/014%20P1500598.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="452" data-original-width="700" height="414" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSPTdw13ujpw_-nfE9ISHmsykUpfPLonbLw9R5tK44FZNga9wMa-EvDiG9HxE7zyNl4F6FpumzsofWeVbI78gxX9uOB5VDxEWIPdQB42VsfBiFVXuyT9vuOygIwjjtexv8BrjlrdmjOZcfSibeyfdK-Nt-XAXAmRdU8gydfo34MOMS2w-Ln-_7sw93k7OU/w640-h414/014%20P1500598.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Just as quickly the other group made for Franks. Obviously not because they had a thirst but because Dora Du Fran had told them that the Army and Police were making regular patrols to ensure no one entered the exclusion zone. I imagine once the final zone area has been established they will fence it off to keep people out, but as we still don’t know what they’re excluding us from we don’t know how big an area this will be.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_IH2Pp21p3_rJi8CMgIBmlBLmNOun4kZqkcjFbkTi5jah6k_ZWXoUfnY3jDmuAqTU48PSFfTlxyWyU6wdKua9Mpx5ESHBKV-NVOFs-9EXP7ycMjcq5QnorK5H9UUD3yLhqKprgBEVFWhMs03VWonKK001w-_Rs3YO2miTszTwye4epZJd78VR4lMCke6o/s700/015%20P1500601.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="514" data-original-width="700" height="470" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_IH2Pp21p3_rJi8CMgIBmlBLmNOun4kZqkcjFbkTi5jah6k_ZWXoUfnY3jDmuAqTU48PSFfTlxyWyU6wdKua9Mpx5ESHBKV-NVOFs-9EXP7ycMjcq5QnorK5H9UUD3yLhqKprgBEVFWhMs03VWonKK001w-_Rs3YO2miTszTwye4epZJd78VR4lMCke6o/w640-h470/015%20P1500601.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Did I mentioned the rumour mill, well currently the most popular theory was that A.R.S.E. had been carrying out various biological and genetic experiments and these had gone wrong. The A.R.S.E. compound inside the Yuma Proving Ground was a complete no go area, Threat level 3 they said. The whole of the Proving Ground had been evacuated and was considered Threat level 2. The Military were patrolling the existing fence around the Ground but on the outside of it. They obviously wanted to contain something!</div><div><br /></div><div>There was a new fence under construction but it was a huge undertaking and in the mean time, signs had been erected along a possible perimeter and this whole area was under constant surveillance by armed patrols and constituted Threat level 1.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAlc7uqvGXFmn7kD-aSPlrAdVgPICEdugWgyNyzA-V0Nd3lvqXEWS7nGaNiMKFX_BDafBDybDPfymnN5Q98aELJiUFIgB45x4Xw6WhCxhnk579T4CV5JMP3zEW9mXZ_jw1goj4zq3aAe5ozcCTtrDvRCprlEB-piCzV0HmIQ6g0Tcp-gyOLCwgoXe9zgHg/s700/016%20P1500600.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="447" data-original-width="700" height="408" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAlc7uqvGXFmn7kD-aSPlrAdVgPICEdugWgyNyzA-V0Nd3lvqXEWS7nGaNiMKFX_BDafBDybDPfymnN5Q98aELJiUFIgB45x4Xw6WhCxhnk579T4CV5JMP3zEW9mXZ_jw1goj4zq3aAe5ozcCTtrDvRCprlEB-piCzV0HmIQ6g0Tcp-gyOLCwgoXe9zgHg/w640-h408/016%20P1500600.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Meanwhile Harley has arrived at the back door to the Gun Shop and tries the handle of the door, it’s not locked, he turns the handle.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFNgIGO3tYT3WKxGX1lxBcCmxu_pVeF0sg_XXyiM0ktnStgDWzeiEeRFW5PDF_4itWYplwZA-EjoB_anG2XvuOZiOFCQGpBb8zlZaBqmnnRgDA6KogrlzQ0Ut1vLNWc4dnGDfgrNjgflgECdh6jorrDVA4JVlmYJ64isAY46IwvttHFL7UOV3-QQe6zTG8/s700/017%20P1500602.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="525" data-original-width="700" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFNgIGO3tYT3WKxGX1lxBcCmxu_pVeF0sg_XXyiM0ktnStgDWzeiEeRFW5PDF_4itWYplwZA-EjoB_anG2XvuOZiOFCQGpBb8zlZaBqmnnRgDA6KogrlzQ0Ut1vLNWc4dnGDfgrNjgflgECdh6jorrDVA4JVlmYJ64isAY46IwvttHFL7UOV3-QQe6zTG8/w640-h480/017%20P1500602.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>The door wasn’t locked, he pushed it open and was slightly surprised to find there were some other occupants of the shop and they didn’t look particularly happy to see Harley. Facing him was a huge black man, Delmare although he didn’t introduce himself at the time, but he was activated by Harley moving within 3” of him. Well you would be wouldn’t you, some big bloke with a shotgun pokes his head around your door you’re bound to be a little activated. Harley noted 3 other hostile looking people, and I don’t use the term loosely, were in the room as Delmar started to raise one of his two BA Pistols….so Harley shot him.</div><div><br /></div><div>Harley isn’t the best shot in the world and neither are the rest of the Vagabonds, rookies remember, and he misses. (40% chance of a hit and he misses)</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZoKnkGPuQiDH1d8ueltAmAwXrNFY8muLq-l5EM-1DSKz7TCu2JRDR4n5TfMZMexNkMUBMrW-osGHZy2Kh9RJ90JwOgz2F0Z4U_R0VW5W115l5behM-5wcJx0SXIAWCO4iGV8nUwzHchWg8BUus6eGv45ZyM74FoPFd2AJ974YK17QlW4phDVCO3_p4Yrs/s700/018%20P1500603.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="525" data-original-width="700" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZoKnkGPuQiDH1d8ueltAmAwXrNFY8muLq-l5EM-1DSKz7TCu2JRDR4n5TfMZMexNkMUBMrW-osGHZy2Kh9RJ90JwOgz2F0Z4U_R0VW5W115l5behM-5wcJx0SXIAWCO4iGV8nUwzHchWg8BUus6eGv45ZyM74FoPFd2AJ974YK17QlW4phDVCO3_p4Yrs/w640-h480/018%20P1500603.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Delmare fires back and he has a 50% chance to hit, Harley takes a bullet some where and rolls around on the ground for a while, his blood mixing with some of the Arizona dust. Big Dave who is stood just behind Harley is a little surprised by the events unfolding in front of him but he brings his shotgun up and blasts away.</div><div><br /></div><div>He continues to be surprised when Delmare smiles, his homemade armour saves him. Although it was a critical save!</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfAZTZU3btu57E_TbFhNlP1TQ-fsMWeNbc-ch2YThIchChd3lJ8VHvBkPisZaUmPFQZyIA-sY5wNuM826Y_hqV6GV9uXjQAnIbakNY1gjn9B2Y44yxh53fNilD9LOA45coCD0lBsRarpS4eDVqiMZJvLuGZQrUBaFSLxUgPHWe2Fbqxpbe2OBsWWW_tOiR/s700/019%20P1500604.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="525" data-original-width="700" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfAZTZU3btu57E_TbFhNlP1TQ-fsMWeNbc-ch2YThIchChd3lJ8VHvBkPisZaUmPFQZyIA-sY5wNuM826Y_hqV6GV9uXjQAnIbakNY1gjn9B2Y44yxh53fNilD9LOA45coCD0lBsRarpS4eDVqiMZJvLuGZQrUBaFSLxUgPHWe2Fbqxpbe2OBsWWW_tOiR/w640-h480/019%20P1500604.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Dave is even more surprised when Pit Bull Billy rushes out from the doorway, yelling and screaming some sort of undulating war cry.</div><div><br /></div><div>Billy though, has forgotten the golden rule – WUSIWUG, he doesn’t have a gun, just a big length of chain and a whopping big knife. He’s also forgotten that he’s only in a threat level 1 situation and after his bold action running out of the building he has to stop and get his breath before he can start to use his whopping big knife. Did I mention rookies are at a bit of a disadvantage.</div><div><br /></div><div>He notices, out of the corner of one eye, Angie grinning evilly, she knows the rule writer subscribes to a form of you go, now I go.</div><div><br /></div><div>But Tank, who is against the back wall of the Gun Shop and right by the window, peremptorily takes the, I go, seriously.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEju04wS6AI75YqBXVeXbfmG_EPSi38UqpERtbv3fpJdoxzALtMV6dtk7ahfQ-ExUJTWy3cXTNG6Mb6o_JSOllSTmMLILMC-GIYwK3u7nAZnbewNS7uSIBVkbCNSTS9jg8EuKRfxEuER76duF1I1pJuwOfUMpkYYRGrt-oGY8i61QIMfBQTZ3_3t_aZ4nnwl/s700/020%20P1500605.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="525" data-original-width="700" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEju04wS6AI75YqBXVeXbfmG_EPSi38UqpERtbv3fpJdoxzALtMV6dtk7ahfQ-ExUJTWy3cXTNG6Mb6o_JSOllSTmMLILMC-GIYwK3u7nAZnbewNS7uSIBVkbCNSTS9jg8EuKRfxEuER76duF1I1pJuwOfUMpkYYRGrt-oGY8i61QIMfBQTZ3_3t_aZ4nnwl/w640-h480/020%20P1500605.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>He drops his grenade through the broken window and ducks down below the sill.</div><div><br /></div><div>I didn’t mention that when generating the threat in the Gun Shop I rolled a 6 which gives me Bandits, or Savages in my case. It also give an Anomaly which Tank has just blown up.</div><div><br /></div><div>Anomalies are specific to the rules and I don’t really understand what an Anomaly is, I can barely spell it but having never read or played computer games set in the Stalker reality I’m going to have to construct my own version of it the next time one of them survives contact with the Vagabonds.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZdfeRkoeHKkmG6etiUWMaiTslTafjEiRH7OTdUdP54SUEpWzI3QJ3eONemVIprTGsM2iTIA3uvyYvEX5M8qkAEEB9T2qh2cAFsmaHymnjB8gVXeZDVpu1zg0Hh7o4FZohDQERQZCuUWOa24TDa5tMutscm2tfZR8AIaBlAkztI3Rs-xrPkyyxr65LugJO/s700/021%20P1500606.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="525" data-original-width="700" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZdfeRkoeHKkmG6etiUWMaiTslTafjEiRH7OTdUdP54SUEpWzI3QJ3eONemVIprTGsM2iTIA3uvyYvEX5M8qkAEEB9T2qh2cAFsmaHymnjB8gVXeZDVpu1zg0Hh7o4FZohDQERQZCuUWOa24TDa5tMutscm2tfZR8AIaBlAkztI3Rs-xrPkyyxr65LugJO/w640-h480/021%20P1500606.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>If Tank had popped up and looked through the window he would have been as surprised as Dave was to see all three Savages still on their feet, although one of them looks a little stunned, as well he might be.</div><div><br /></div><div>Stunned equals pinned in the rules for those who know about these things.</div><div><br /></div><div>Donna who is the only Savage who can move, does so and then Angie’s smile gets even wider when at almost point blank range she “pops a cap” into Pit Bull Billy. Is that the right expression? Anyway with a critical success she hits him where his rudimentary armour can’t save him and he drops to the floor, out of the fight, or ooF.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPcHbgVpEzxspPYjg0zeTviKqjLEI51LvAlWUiWjZyMM9tWLoTfL3W1rA0A5hoym7kdpB0v42u6vawbPB9KYtcrYVmc88XWG75WDDGEbxsSKQNIBjnAGRX04Hd7e_fxa-dBCPGrPHt3gO1-W9XTWWXwARISBLOQxIzPN6Q9NFmJk4StfGRplTqGm81a1yJ/s700/022%20P1500607.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="525" data-original-width="700" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPcHbgVpEzxspPYjg0zeTviKqjLEI51LvAlWUiWjZyMM9tWLoTfL3W1rA0A5hoym7kdpB0v42u6vawbPB9KYtcrYVmc88XWG75WDDGEbxsSKQNIBjnAGRX04Hd7e_fxa-dBCPGrPHt3gO1-W9XTWWXwARISBLOQxIzPN6Q9NFmJk4StfGRplTqGm81a1yJ/w640-h480/022%20P1500607.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Over with the other part of the gang Fast Freddie has taken a swig of Pollyjuice Potion or Vodka laced with gunpowder, not sure which, but he explodes into action. He reaches the Bar, throws the door open and sees a bunch of rambling shambling creatures whom he recognises as Zombies. Obviously been watching too much late night TV but his nerves are shot due to the Pollyjuice and he fires, hitting one of the creatures between the eyes and it dies….again.</div><div><br /></div><div>By this time I’m starting to get the hang of activation and he jumps back into the street, using his final action to get out of reach of the threat and within reach of support.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgues9E7cCzbdVNp_7Jcfy1AmhXqplNiJ_-3o3gyQbdcM07GwS09w414nN9YVYLwRWPuKCXkbyc3-N41QLvfFJseJJGq8KnMQKIU9aMQaQnVNgdufRaY0DWnPbwv9WoYA2ZjXwqRDYx2VpGEYNlRwpj3gU8DO6xuDk4c6Y1aC0KGlxGYsT--08jQk2M-KPD/s700/023%20P1500608.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="525" data-original-width="700" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgues9E7cCzbdVNp_7Jcfy1AmhXqplNiJ_-3o3gyQbdcM07GwS09w414nN9YVYLwRWPuKCXkbyc3-N41QLvfFJseJJGq8KnMQKIU9aMQaQnVNgdufRaY0DWnPbwv9WoYA2ZjXwqRDYx2VpGEYNlRwpj3gU8DO6xuDk4c6Y1aC0KGlxGYsT--08jQk2M-KPD/w640-h480/023%20P1500608.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>One by one the Zombies shamble out of the building, and one by one they get shot at. Ulrika fires and misses, Desire fires and misses, Fat Willie fires and misses, Vincent fires his shotgun and misses, 3 times, there’s a bit of a thread running through this narrative. Eight Ball and Babe couldn’t get a clear shot and moved to the right.</div><div><br /></div><div>Bubble fires last and puts an end to this awful missing trend, she hits and kills the little girl. This isn’t going to look good in the papers, or at any subsequent trial.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhW9DFir6lYDR0h508LAuslAH5ACcu-9oOz9OgjYb8s1EWzJqO-crTPliV5mNrcKr8pOZIDtVSgInirro4oNXq5qX7Pp7-5mzGlW_rnZ2QqrZNMqGgtCrc90AaHjjaVI--b92XB3fCPU4zdbfV4v_AVYU9JePmCNjCrI4w95KSyHwVRREyMWSFBm7HEYzeH/s700/024%20P1500609.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="525" data-original-width="700" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhW9DFir6lYDR0h508LAuslAH5ACcu-9oOz9OgjYb8s1EWzJqO-crTPliV5mNrcKr8pOZIDtVSgInirro4oNXq5qX7Pp7-5mzGlW_rnZ2QqrZNMqGgtCrc90AaHjjaVI--b92XB3fCPU4zdbfV4v_AVYU9JePmCNjCrI4w95KSyHwVRREyMWSFBm7HEYzeH/w640-h480/024%20P1500609.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Donna had moved to the window inside the building, the Savages got the initiative on the next turn and she shot Angie who has no armour and is OOF.</div><div><br /></div><div>Big Dave rolls a grenade into the building through the open door.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJQDJK2oNBOzLNLT_Dx6uYV4VS61Q4Wl00JQ2IfmelAI_8mofTn68KXe3hHnnjmb6DqFe9VI9nJelaszPUwqxJtICxrhHyjvzlUXxawgL_slZQe_wlVrjHXZtpYsKbcfbaYM1Lby3yKaGw6rPVvyMxdjAydD46TjEU7TBnfyXpi8aaWy6zUYYKuA5ac6K9/s700/025%20P1500610.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="525" data-original-width="700" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJQDJK2oNBOzLNLT_Dx6uYV4VS61Q4Wl00JQ2IfmelAI_8mofTn68KXe3hHnnjmb6DqFe9VI9nJelaszPUwqxJtICxrhHyjvzlUXxawgL_slZQe_wlVrjHXZtpYsKbcfbaYM1Lby3yKaGw6rPVvyMxdjAydD46TjEU7TBnfyXpi8aaWy6zUYYKuA5ac6K9/w640-h480/025%20P1500610.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Unfortunately it missed the doorway, hit the wall and rebounded into the middle of his mates. BOOM.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHGpCoZSStFuS3ESFkyBGq3gsouzQE1a7DcqNFHU9d99Rt92qwSaoi20MP30Ds48ztNam-7YN4xnQxzMXiif7sjb6HUBBgaU34nzn8-O4RxSIDKfYZphw2Ye2caQqGOvClEKWY8C4YI8EuElCh_enokpscrTtugVXaaDh0HYSJa8ywJDNFDVDiwmCyaw-H/s700/026%20P1500611.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="525" data-original-width="700" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHGpCoZSStFuS3ESFkyBGq3gsouzQE1a7DcqNFHU9d99Rt92qwSaoi20MP30Ds48ztNam-7YN4xnQxzMXiif7sjb6HUBBgaU34nzn8-O4RxSIDKfYZphw2Ye2caQqGOvClEKWY8C4YI8EuElCh_enokpscrTtugVXaaDh0HYSJa8ywJDNFDVDiwmCyaw-H/w640-h480/026%20P1500611.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>As I’m reading the rules, because the Vagabonds don’t have armour they need a critical success to avoid injury, as lady luck decided, Tank and Angie had critical successes and also passed their will test, so the only casualty is Dave and he’s ooF. Serves him right.</div><div><br /></div><div>Things aren’t looking too good at this stage.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjqZ-9v270I0NamS9TJmyNGWqrxpgeaKpmCsBtHGHmXjsm8MMvKxA5Qb3TCBJtCSqTpjjA04tM3lJ275FnNYfRsMM1I3Og4ajRIzsEUFp9we_XfCpqljrCtQirA3c-sHxwvhWPqGdpId66EKe4oYsj1sSqM4RTciqfH2vMx4SUTntjsOt24hwz-3y4D4gK/s700/027%20P1500614.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="525" data-original-width="700" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjqZ-9v270I0NamS9TJmyNGWqrxpgeaKpmCsBtHGHmXjsm8MMvKxA5Qb3TCBJtCSqTpjjA04tM3lJ275FnNYfRsMM1I3Og4ajRIzsEUFp9we_XfCpqljrCtQirA3c-sHxwvhWPqGdpId66EKe4oYsj1sSqM4RTciqfH2vMx4SUTntjsOt24hwz-3y4D4gK/w640-h480/027%20P1500614.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>It doesn’t get any better when Delmore jumps out and Tank fires at him and misses. Big Dave on the ground pulls out his bandaid and sticks it over the wounds from the grenade fragment's and feels a bit better. Inside the building the last Savage, Roberto feels fine now that the ringing in his ears has stopped and he will move next turn.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5cUPM3ZpE4RfHo-F2lvCqo_w3uQOsONcFf2s1Y0oCK8lEu22BCN1hGfFRqhk4nQOAZmRE5fRvdjuzqSJWY_FrRG08iNxmr5_ZxiigcdiWsRq-eac1BFx1ifA4cDGEr2fq777RT0qtVOlHnMLMVcFnC0Vk4Gl6wTZQdGe6B1C9122itDzeJCuRvRrV9L7z/s700/028%20P1500613.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="525" data-original-width="700" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5cUPM3ZpE4RfHo-F2lvCqo_w3uQOsONcFf2s1Y0oCK8lEu22BCN1hGfFRqhk4nQOAZmRE5fRvdjuzqSJWY_FrRG08iNxmr5_ZxiigcdiWsRq-eac1BFx1ifA4cDGEr2fq777RT0qtVOlHnMLMVcFnC0Vk4Gl6wTZQdGe6B1C9122itDzeJCuRvRrV9L7z/w640-h480/028%20P1500613.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>This is rather complicated, and I probably got it wrong. The Vagabonds have the initiative, Ulrika fired and missed. That zombie moved into contact with her but can’t attack (1 action for threat level). Fast Freddie fired and missed, zombie moved into contact with him but can’t attack. I was sure I’d read something about shooting into a melee but couldn’t find it so I resolved that to fire into a melee, if hit then hit zombie, if miss then test for a hit on your mate.</div><div><br /></div><div>Fortunately the Vagabonds are really crap shots. Desire fired, missed Zed and then missed Freddie. Eight Ball fired and killed the zed facing Ulrika. Vincent fired his pistol and missed both the Zed and Freddie.</div><div><br /></div><div>Fat Willie, Babe and Bubble all moved to contact the Zed but can’t attack.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-km53q7W0rPlnBCIARLob117jSnOzjQqA1hUE5WX2whN7eNl1ay8Nu1MGslPa5Gc1_qecOeHzy6nFl6gFRWw2_7TQRv2vwGMZ7g5fFNdH31K1W-yNeQZF8nEo0zuC6G8sEMxXw8X41XdAaCPeixkgCISiYV7ZWkX6w9m-OOopqecpA_nTYNhz7MagZ8pE/s700/029%20P1500616.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="525" data-original-width="700" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-km53q7W0rPlnBCIARLob117jSnOzjQqA1hUE5WX2whN7eNl1ay8Nu1MGslPa5Gc1_qecOeHzy6nFl6gFRWw2_7TQRv2vwGMZ7g5fFNdH31K1W-yNeQZF8nEo0zuC6G8sEMxXw8X41XdAaCPeixkgCISiYV7ZWkX6w9m-OOopqecpA_nTYNhz7MagZ8pE/w640-h480/029%20P1500616.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Next turn Tank fires at Delmore who fires back, they both miss. Donna in the building fires at Tank and misses, Roberto runs outside and levels his gun at Tank but can’t fire because he’s only got 1 action.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6zwUJ88ep5VVOjc7lM75n7FTMzWk-r067zhP7-HImr0ljftolKcE17Z22zdB0Nc_SYg-CnHDfkOMTsWkMB2TWBuRBm0efmxTVN8WradcPVMwrtiUEmU5FNkBuN5PkylD_ygT3RPkB5x8K3rkyHcV0tI8_SMPknAQBO_v4Bym6YnJ0kUQp36Epgwh06WiF/s700/030%20P1500617.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="525" data-original-width="700" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6zwUJ88ep5VVOjc7lM75n7FTMzWk-r067zhP7-HImr0ljftolKcE17Z22zdB0Nc_SYg-CnHDfkOMTsWkMB2TWBuRBm0efmxTVN8WradcPVMwrtiUEmU5FNkBuN5PkylD_ygT3RPkB5x8K3rkyHcV0tI8_SMPknAQBO_v4Bym6YnJ0kUQp36Epgwh06WiF/w640-h480/030%20P1500617.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Back over with the Zombie I’m still confused about combat but everyone missed except Babe who hit with the hammer at +1 damage, so one dead zed.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjG8j8HokTz6lI8eyTcYeUR86yB0WKSp6NHhEGnjo-YtMrB1-9ybcUTtErso2kBTf-FGpDj-1BMhd6ubWmMBYMhEsOfEHgryQplSC_rClDhSZpOAkFazUIUZ2pOmt_U01dhqNvBBGcnfi6Ikiy43Fc59IfLFHAcBL4D4c1PeMXZfdr2Y9UAF4HCRwOnwneE/s700/031%20P1500618.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="525" data-original-width="700" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjG8j8HokTz6lI8eyTcYeUR86yB0WKSp6NHhEGnjo-YtMrB1-9ybcUTtErso2kBTf-FGpDj-1BMhd6ubWmMBYMhEsOfEHgryQplSC_rClDhSZpOAkFazUIUZ2pOmt_U01dhqNvBBGcnfi6Ikiy43Fc59IfLFHAcBL4D4c1PeMXZfdr2Y9UAF4HCRwOnwneE/w640-h480/031%20P1500618.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>I’m now in turn 6, Tank wins the initiative and at this point I had Tank take a swift sip of Pollyjuice Potion. The Pollyjuice kicks in and he’s like a wild man. Well he’s like a wild man without the potion but you know what I mean.</div><div><br /></div><div>He fires at Delmore and misses, he fires at Delmore again and hits him but the shot bounces off Delmore’s armour and he’s not pinned.</div><div><br /></div><div>Giving up on Delmore he fires at Roberto and hits him. Roberto’s armour saves him but he’s pinned/stunned. That Pollyjuice isn’t working as well as I’d like.</div><div><br /></div><div>Delmore fires back at Tank, Tank takes it in the gut and goes down ooF.</div><div><br /></div><div>Big Dave is back on his feet, these Medikits are wonderful things and he’s ready to rock and roll next turn.</div><div><br /></div><div>Donna comes out of the Gun Shop but can’t do anything else.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeUpdWfBipNf2kiie5ii7i9kyrU60neNqN55PHPCwV9XN453QluGmvOpUeE98Wngkdr0FwE1JRtbHOfaaCKi9CXHEwEfZ9rxeFYW5PpGoAfp0pHcSCeuPez9kTN25uBWp2flqgMvzdEMzTOwFo67zin1SDQezkA_gM-e58Yb-UDQqKRUSY8CRP1QG5gGeg/s700/032%20P1500619.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="525" data-original-width="700" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeUpdWfBipNf2kiie5ii7i9kyrU60neNqN55PHPCwV9XN453QluGmvOpUeE98Wngkdr0FwE1JRtbHOfaaCKi9CXHEwEfZ9rxeFYW5PpGoAfp0pHcSCeuPez9kTN25uBWp2flqgMvzdEMzTOwFo67zin1SDQezkA_gM-e58Yb-UDQqKRUSY8CRP1QG5gGeg/w640-h480/032%20P1500619.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Just call me old fashioned but I’d given Pollyjuice to all the males, this is some potion that when you drink it you can perform 3 actions in a turn, a bit like cocaine but faster. Fast Freddie had 2 doses but I didn't give it to the female members of the Vagabonds. We’re still in turn 6 and Ulrika shouts “Go and help Tank, not knowing that Tank was past help but Big Dave could use a hand. Freddie moves two actions and fires, he has 2 guns so fires twice. He misses twice.</div><div><br /></div><div>Big Willie moves 2 actions and fires at Delmore, Delmore’s armour saves him again but he is pinned. Eight Ball moves 2 actions, fires and misses.</div><div><br /></div><div>Vincent doesn’t hold with drugs and so only moves slowly, I don’t hold with drugs and so Bubble and Babe also move slowly.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizUQ7wRDF6ELHB5m36IvZmfGn71mxNFu54vcNCUoNdo38xNghKY3CzMslsNOaEfW-Zup-0HzhWVUrirZm35ELvCUPKJCul_IMW8hp6r9AHyioluHOU6cVCGvn_vPi3hRLwASdD4RD3R23N3Sr4PWSLWSftEcVkZluLACENj6myplQ83FJIjSp8M9etVyK-/s700/033%20P1500620.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="525" data-original-width="700" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizUQ7wRDF6ELHB5m36IvZmfGn71mxNFu54vcNCUoNdo38xNghKY3CzMslsNOaEfW-Zup-0HzhWVUrirZm35ELvCUPKJCul_IMW8hp6r9AHyioluHOU6cVCGvn_vPi3hRLwASdD4RD3R23N3Sr4PWSLWSftEcVkZluLACENj6myplQ83FJIjSp8M9etVyK-/w640-h480/033%20P1500620.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Turn 7 and the Army, Navy and Airforce all arrive at the edge of the board but for some reason, unknown to me now, they didn’t move onto the board until the end of the turn.</div><div><br /></div><div>That gave Donna the chance to fire on Big Dave, you remember he’s just got up after being shot once. Well she shot him again and he goes down OD (Obviously Dead)</div><div><br /></div><div>NOOOO screams Eight Ball as he fires at Donna and misses, Willie fires at Delmore and misses, Freddie fires at Roberto and misses. It’s really been one of those days.</div><div><br /></div><div>Vincent, Bubble and Babe move round the corner of the Gun Shop, ready to open fire on the Savages at their next opportunity.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPW_3U7PSP6oRoq4DllYmBkTNdNey7oEYLyoxsUC9Iu6BN7J72OrFcP-UhIjBSLbXceeYZAPuFg5xXchot2TZ-OhU8k0qRXLjU-dSQ7ZjDELzaJgOAdnzLYN1W7rXSRPg6T5arAOk5Kv3O0cd_higZ5G_1LzWN2aEFtqK_gxdGXORhTMsjCP1pUW2FS7Wu/s665/034%20P1500621.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="374" data-original-width="665" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPW_3U7PSP6oRoq4DllYmBkTNdNey7oEYLyoxsUC9Iu6BN7J72OrFcP-UhIjBSLbXceeYZAPuFg5xXchot2TZ-OhU8k0qRXLjU-dSQ7ZjDELzaJgOAdnzLYN1W7rXSRPg6T5arAOk5Kv3O0cd_higZ5G_1LzWN2aEFtqK_gxdGXORhTMsjCP1pUW2FS7Wu/w640-h360/034%20P1500621.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>They are just in time to see the Army, Navy, Airforce, Police and some private contractors de-bus from their vehicles demanding everyone stops shooting and drops their guns.</div><div><br /></div><div>In view of their overwhelming numbers and the fact that the Vagabonds are vaguely law abiding and the Savages are not as daft as they look, both groups comply.</div><div><br /></div><div>And that my friends is how I and the rest of the Vagabonds ended up in Fort Huachuca prison block waiting to see our lawyer.</div><div><br /></div><div>We had two more medikits and so Tank and Angie were saved before being carted off to prison. The Army also had kits and Harley and Pit Bull Billy recovered quickly. Big Dave is in the Operating Theatre and we’re waiting to hear how he’s doing but it doesn’t look good.</div><div><br /></div><div>Well this probably isn’t the most auspicious opening to a campaign but I think it’s got a lot of potential.</div>Vagabondhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14031648950206231742noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7655102169795953648.post-2880644133569494282023-08-07T17:26:00.001+01:002023-08-07T17:26:20.530+01:00The Yuma Proving GroundIt was just for a laugh, well a laugh and a few beers but as I looked around at the rest of the crew I could see they couldn’t see the fun in it anymore.<div><br /></div><div>You would probably think the same if you were in Fort Huachuca prison block waiting to see your lawyer, although as we hadn’t been allowed a phone call yet we were not expecting to see one soon.</div><div><br /></div><div>Perhaps I’d better explain from the beginning, or at least our beginning. We all lived and grew up in Arizona, near to the Yuma Proving Ground. A huge military establishment, the base occupied some 1,300 square miles and was home to numerous different branches of the military as well as some civil and law enforcement agencies. It was roughly 36 miles square and we knew it housed establishments that were every bit as secret as the famous Area 51. Most of the space was given over to the usual training and firing areas, accommodation blocks, communications centres, etc etc. Then three years ago there was rumoured to be a new establishment being set up. It was housed in an underground bunker built especially for them, they were known as the Arizona Research and Scientific Establishment. A.R.S.E. for short.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSl91yP8KVaUdMOz02QLRIFJx0wdVAyMEOTDJ7B6WHlXSUdDsXb7dViKgLlJDhyppD3TA5iEDBDNJhlVAVQzsKymFGcLwSFpup2a8pfN3BS8pFkmKNKrzCVOyuT4dUnDpLyZajIQzyNO0DN0n1X3DppTOPPL60tnMaeGJbO-bsVk9FPgP_fqF21-k0_eqJ/s700/001%20P1500575.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="346" data-original-width="700" height="316" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSl91yP8KVaUdMOz02QLRIFJx0wdVAyMEOTDJ7B6WHlXSUdDsXb7dViKgLlJDhyppD3TA5iEDBDNJhlVAVQzsKymFGcLwSFpup2a8pfN3BS8pFkmKNKrzCVOyuT4dUnDpLyZajIQzyNO0DN0n1X3DppTOPPL60tnMaeGJbO-bsVk9FPgP_fqF21-k0_eqJ/w640-h316/001%20P1500575.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Eight Ball lived nearest to the Proving Ground with his Pa, Ebenezer, in a small gaggle of buildings in the desert, so small in fact that they had no name. It was just called Ebenezer’s Place. He was the envy of all the kids at school because he lived in a road side bar, which surprisingly was called “Ebenezer’s Bar” and Ebenezer had the best Pool table in Arizona. Eight Ball got to practice a lot.</div><div><br /></div><div>There were only three buildings, or Businesses in Ebenezer’s Place.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5liNAPgho9ypNklJWNFrSyJpgK9KH2iu0EnRua3z12EKV0574Jwh5l3k-f2Kutax__SCQhGn8QL0UVnRXw9iO2ZHqL-HBZrdIR6lzUsZZRgSali2enbG90-AOT81VlaX7BGCw_vKqPb0aQN4Q1kvdKoRF1lNp8Jkb_7eAmuMeHbRQ4oPnI5uRcIAmMaY6/s700/002%20P1500576.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="447" data-original-width="700" height="408" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5liNAPgho9ypNklJWNFrSyJpgK9KH2iu0EnRua3z12EKV0574Jwh5l3k-f2Kutax__SCQhGn8QL0UVnRXw9iO2ZHqL-HBZrdIR6lzUsZZRgSali2enbG90-AOT81VlaX7BGCw_vKqPb0aQN4Q1kvdKoRF1lNp8Jkb_7eAmuMeHbRQ4oPnI5uRcIAmMaY6/w640-h408/002%20P1500576.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Ebenezer’s Bar, which had existed for ever and survived because it was on the back road out of the Proving Ground. Jimmy Thompson owned the bar on the main road out of the Ground and he made a fortune but Ebenezer got by on the slower traffic out the back.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaIOktcaUCcxCrnb864k-2FAGQvbKYyeNku0FzPxP4A10I-CnWA5On3-igU98BXfiOAra1aYgC-NezCtiX8u6uiTLzGt7RCNLzsY_XtToHEaDkVrcBE732L4APbfUj3hME8fcOHl_teHTTUvpIVwm_d75ctjWdViAosOaWZEBuyARTmExgBqtwCVqXdgtR/s700/003%20P1500577.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="412" data-original-width="700" height="376" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaIOktcaUCcxCrnb864k-2FAGQvbKYyeNku0FzPxP4A10I-CnWA5On3-igU98BXfiOAra1aYgC-NezCtiX8u6uiTLzGt7RCNLzsY_XtToHEaDkVrcBE732L4APbfUj3hME8fcOHl_teHTTUvpIVwm_d75ctjWdViAosOaWZEBuyARTmExgBqtwCVqXdgtR/w640-h376/003%20P1500577.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Dora Du Fran was the main reason there was a reliable flow of customers passing along the back road but the least said about her business model the better.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgD3BBoPqxHddFyd5HC4jXtryte94Os_dDj8zU6wAIwFbDQpC16DptwRF6R0yuUr5vEpi0cn4UnhyFP0vbehY-2H6dGVEvwwPIiHELssp0-SF_ERgkLfWiagAo3JrOz-C7rVvbPWzlDiMS5paPdlni_96gpffrGlsp42OqiXqxWwbIyfJACklIT1UMCVbnc/s700/004%20P1500583.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="294" data-original-width="700" height="268" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgD3BBoPqxHddFyd5HC4jXtryte94Os_dDj8zU6wAIwFbDQpC16DptwRF6R0yuUr5vEpi0cn4UnhyFP0vbehY-2H6dGVEvwwPIiHELssp0-SF_ERgkLfWiagAo3JrOz-C7rVvbPWzlDiMS5paPdlni_96gpffrGlsp42OqiXqxWwbIyfJACklIT1UMCVbnc/w640-h268/004%20P1500583.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>The small black Porsche sports car parked discreetly behind the Bath House might indicate who made the most money in Ebenezer’s Place but “what the IRS don’t know, the IRS don’t get” as Dora used to say.</div><div>The other business was Frank’s.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIs2XvZUMUMIX6o3gDHOh3Dv5lzDXg2UYQCM5QjFGXXAFsFVPI1PfM2vfh2Knu_wB9kFf0f--fxUT5XVKq7IJmn8KTFzwdbkLLR9_2P6j0S9MeD1naYN6iVhE2PMQBPFFNTOKypLUPybRLGZyG3Cq4FYwXgqQf0zwEaiUtYAQ-VW1NrLx3PgHrF_IYR7FR/s700/005%20P1500584.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="525" data-original-width="700" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIs2XvZUMUMIX6o3gDHOh3Dv5lzDXg2UYQCM5QjFGXXAFsFVPI1PfM2vfh2Knu_wB9kFf0f--fxUT5XVKq7IJmn8KTFzwdbkLLR9_2P6j0S9MeD1naYN6iVhE2PMQBPFFNTOKypLUPybRLGZyG3Cq4FYwXgqQf0zwEaiUtYAQ-VW1NrLx3PgHrF_IYR7FR/w640-h480/005%20P1500584.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Frank sold guns, he repaired guns, he loved guns, it’s even rumoured he slept with a gun. Mind you in Arizona, most people slept with a gun, although maybe not in the same way as Frank.</div><div><br /></div><div>Frank and Ebenezer didn’t get along. They hadn’t got along for some time, 50 years was the best guess, but I really don’t know the truth of the matter, I’m not that old and I don’t believe what old folk’s tell me.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSb1XyyRwZu9_mg5culAKVeGycx0DtuGkPdbEagPaclmMwXgn01IEpXI7WRGzX-z4mu7S8zKzUYYL2AWaGUsC7ESb4in2jZxFVDY33QypZ_RHn0c9cpKEs9iHRYfKqokYs9VZ5eBdA0ZsfvObv71YlxKf2UBekZ5TkcbO-5Kl6clPjI3R0p2hrp5UUqeSN/s700/006%20P1500582.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="423" data-original-width="700" height="386" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSb1XyyRwZu9_mg5culAKVeGycx0DtuGkPdbEagPaclmMwXgn01IEpXI7WRGzX-z4mu7S8zKzUYYL2AWaGUsC7ESb4in2jZxFVDY33QypZ_RHn0c9cpKEs9iHRYfKqokYs9VZ5eBdA0ZsfvObv71YlxKf2UBekZ5TkcbO-5Kl6clPjI3R0p2hrp5UUqeSN/w640-h386/006%20P1500582.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>They would stand outside their respective front doors and glare at each other, hatred, malice, and even a little animosity was conveyed in those silent glares. Some thought it was over a woman, some thought differently, neither Ebenezer nor Frank were ever in the mood to discuss it.</div><div><br /></div><div>Anyway I don’t suppose you’re interested in Frank and Ebenezer but much more interested in A.R.S.E. and how that might have anything to do with my being in jail.</div><div><br /></div><div>Well - gradually they expanded within the base, more buildings were erected within their compound but still no one knew what they were doing. Even Dora hadn’t picked up anything substantial, well not in the way of hard news at least. She knew they were there but that was it, the employees of A.R.S.E. were a tight lipped bunch.</div><div><br /></div><div>As always rumours abounded, nuclear research, toxic gas, toxic virus, toxic this, toxic that, even searching for the cure to the common cold had a small following – well you name it and someone had thought of it. Nothing much changed until 3 weeks ago when all hell let loose.</div><div><br /></div><div>The military moved out from the Base in a wave pushing everything and everybody in front of them. Ebenezer, Frank and Dora were given 15 minutes to pack up and leave. They had a lifetimes possessions to pack in 15 minutes. Dora was done in 5 but Frank and Ebenezer took a little longer.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXjni0c1kWwOoJuiWdJkcP72zwXrH3m81pDNKNJ88rCUz7Frsf8inDuemLKtZF79cJ7LcJyyOkfdCqWQF6kTRiW3DF2JdxZcV-xHP7s5T4Z3FO9UI_tvRCy_pkdvVNtbEtnGAkxCBEPiVzJtbvWN19JioORyvNzYdmnk4G0htWGVv4Y_euLY_hd4nix4O0/s700/007%20P1500590.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="352" data-original-width="700" height="322" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXjni0c1kWwOoJuiWdJkcP72zwXrH3m81pDNKNJ88rCUz7Frsf8inDuemLKtZF79cJ7LcJyyOkfdCqWQF6kTRiW3DF2JdxZcV-xHP7s5T4Z3FO9UI_tvRCy_pkdvVNtbEtnGAkxCBEPiVzJtbvWN19JioORyvNzYdmnk4G0htWGVv4Y_euLY_hd4nix4O0/w640-h322/007%20P1500590.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Frank panicked, he drove his Range Rover into the rail fence and was lucky that Dora had room in her Porsche for him and a few of his favourite guns, she made him leave the rest in the car.</div><div><br /></div><div>There was no explanation from the Military, just pack up and go.</div><div><br /></div><div>Eight Ball was on his way back from town to Ebenezer’s Place when he met his Pa on the road out. “What do you mean” Eight Ball said, “You packed your collection of 1930’s cigarette cards but didn’t pack Alice”. “No” Ebenezer responded, “I forgot Alice, I’m sorry son”.</div><div><br /></div><div>You might be wondering who Alice is and why Ebenezer would try and pack her anyway, Ok well maybe you’re not wondering but I’ll tell you anyway. Alice is Eight Balls pool cue and he was very attached to her. She was to prove our undoing and the reason we are currently residing in Fort Huachuca prison block awaiting our phone call.</div><div><br /></div><div>Perhaps I should introduce you to the crew in happier circumstances.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-oz8zzr7U1TRt9Ktr_kyqEH6RN5nlRajLiS5E2FIUbJoVu0MO7P2ecS60t20oFpMQ5Yucr_wm9cFpMBtF9FbagUvkzU37i0tnO_Leivd5Uj8cV-1rNT12QTEcrlIbljZdH5LFW-aXP5aMZfIuDZuaJyhHQPMmehQZIE0Wb0CNo-WkeyIF3gGhZQsjrnVm/s700/008%20P1500595.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="405" data-original-width="700" height="370" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-oz8zzr7U1TRt9Ktr_kyqEH6RN5nlRajLiS5E2FIUbJoVu0MO7P2ecS60t20oFpMQ5Yucr_wm9cFpMBtF9FbagUvkzU37i0tnO_Leivd5Uj8cV-1rNT12QTEcrlIbljZdH5LFW-aXP5aMZfIuDZuaJyhHQPMmehQZIE0Wb0CNo-WkeyIF3gGhZQsjrnVm/w640-h370/008%20P1500595.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;">This photograph was taken last year in front of Ebenezer’s Bar, Eight Ball is in the back row, just under the R in BAR. I say row but it’s more of a bunch, strangely we thought we’d call our gang the Wild Bunch but Ulrika pointed out that someone had already done that, and they were all dead now.</span></div><div><br /></div><div>Fast Freddie back and left thought we should call ourselves the Middle Arizona Biker Devils but no one liked that suggestion at all. Fat Willie and Tank, the two squat thugs either side of Ulrika thought we should be the Yuma Chapter of the Hells Angels but they wouldn’t let us join the Hells Angels.</div><div><br /></div><div>Finally it was Bubble (Blond hair back and left, almost out of sight) who suggested we be the Vagabonds. “Why the Vagabonds” asked Ulrika. “Well weren’t they like knights of old, who rode horses to rescue damsels in distress and we ride bikes, they’re like horses aren’t they” Bubble replied. We all looked at her in astonishment, well apart from Big Dave who fancied his chances. Bubble is not the sharpest knife in the drawer but the name stuck and we all agreed we should be the Vagabonds. Ride the back roads and rescue any damsels we got half a chance to rescue, even if they weren’t in distress. Angie, Ulrika, Desire and Babe didn’t like that idea but Bubble thought it was a great notion and so when Eight Ball brought up Alice, you remember Alice, we all agreed to rescue her.</div>Vagabondhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14031648950206231742noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7655102169795953648.post-87630951960210191602023-06-20T16:31:00.000+01:002023-06-20T16:31:13.653+01:00Captain Black Jack's Treasure Hunt<div>Sit down me hearties, pull up a chair by the fire and I’ll tell you a tale about Captain Black Jack and his crew of desperados back in the 50’s, the 1750’s you understand.</div><div><br /></div><div>Captain Black Jack and his two closest confederates Mary Cut-throat Brazier and William Plunkett were in the Tap Room of the Dog and Weasel drinking and thinking. They were deciding if the information they had gleaned was worth their lives. They’d done too much drinking and not enough thinking but even so the consensus was that - “No it wasn’t”. However if they could get a few gullible locals to go along as cannon fodder, then maybe they could alter the odds sufficiently to make it worth the risk.</div><div><br /></div><div>You may be wondering what I’m blathering on about…..King John’s Treasure is what I’m blathering on about, the kings crown jewels and royal treasury no less.</div><div><br /></div><div>Everyone knows that this was lost somewhere in the Wash in 1216.</div><div><br /></div><div>No you fool - not Mrs Perkins the Washer Woman’s wash, I’m talking about the area around the Fens known as the Wash. It’s an area of dark tales and dread superstition, peopled by folk with two heads, webbed fingers and toes but there are other creatures there, much worse creatures.</div><div><br /></div><div>Creatures from the dark pits of Hades…. (<i>well that’s what I heard on YouTube, so it must be right!</i>)</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7m3nehumGZp1CJ2e6S1gmRMe5Htk80GUMTXYxkqavnUATzxA5m8Xj5cm5KhSJKtyMqjY0xbrGdqzNMTVUcfclsx1SalLTodm2r_bI6xcEH_PoWHgpEA6Fv9k2MbyneKK_T3Gj0BmWjEuTonesbfMMpLlA3bkfiueIC49CHKigK6xH8DhjGLQEJCWJVw/s700/001%20P1500367.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="412" data-original-width="700" height="376" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7m3nehumGZp1CJ2e6S1gmRMe5Htk80GUMTXYxkqavnUATzxA5m8Xj5cm5KhSJKtyMqjY0xbrGdqzNMTVUcfclsx1SalLTodm2r_bI6xcEH_PoWHgpEA6Fv9k2MbyneKK_T3Gj0BmWjEuTonesbfMMpLlA3bkfiueIC49CHKigK6xH8DhjGLQEJCWJVw/w640-h376/001%20P1500367.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>After a few more drinks and a bit more think Black Jack’s crew have managed to collect a few of the local ruffians together, After plying them with more of the former and less of the latter they set off for Dead Piddling in the Water.</div><div><br /></div><div>The local ruffians were Honesty Jones, Vanity Dobbs and Sally Salisbury and are so full of the Squire’s best stout “Staggering Man” that they are as full of bravado as beer, the other local village, Much Piddling in the Marsh was uppermost in their minds. <i>You'll have to decide why</i>.</div><div><br /></div><div>Dead Piddling used to be a lively place but about 12 years ago the inhabitants started to move out, well those who could move, moved. The others are in the graveyard around the old Church. No one is really sure why they moved, the live ones won’t talk, and the dead ones can’t but Jack had heard the rumour and taken heed of it.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlxLdkygeK9FnK3weWLVlOIrpsn80y68JVFwFM7AneWi3tGJo4pNIdS6MlFsRPgo4o29fp1Fp_v9oalv03wAp9-aBS0mryHJnSKm6ZpOrcKOVd0WFgiVeDeXwLg_Z501Im1mhZO9rfw-Hk1HVwueGfeDY5GlN6GtOZUgVPmEpYjGlWi348urempbHTlQ/s700/002%20P1500368.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="456" data-original-width="700" height="416" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlxLdkygeK9FnK3weWLVlOIrpsn80y68JVFwFM7AneWi3tGJo4pNIdS6MlFsRPgo4o29fp1Fp_v9oalv03wAp9-aBS0mryHJnSKm6ZpOrcKOVd0WFgiVeDeXwLg_Z501Im1mhZO9rfw-Hk1HVwueGfeDY5GlN6GtOZUgVPmEpYjGlWi348urempbHTlQ/w640-h416/002%20P1500368.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>The sun was setting as they arrived on the outskirts of the village. Jack decided he must split his forces if they were to search the village before morning, a time when other interested parties might wonder what they were up to.</div><div><br /></div><div>Plunkett and the ruffian Vanity went right, to search the broken down house in that direction and the rest continued into the heart of the village.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3oUoThoxT4W6sItzS7xQUMCFx77J7EczYTF3f3GbGQsqdM30lm92b9M1XrHDtvl9_vKZ5Bf9avDq1MeOtBNPUsrbdiP49HFaWRsL1n_nHxwxH64VxJHKoE8EhP5R8IH6Hh40lyYEHCryzTXu4n7jGBLCmTGdN1dp3wYIxPR9rQRLuspSwETaZOkeqmw/s700/003%20P1500371.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="497" data-original-width="700" height="454" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3oUoThoxT4W6sItzS7xQUMCFx77J7EczYTF3f3GbGQsqdM30lm92b9M1XrHDtvl9_vKZ5Bf9avDq1MeOtBNPUsrbdiP49HFaWRsL1n_nHxwxH64VxJHKoE8EhP5R8IH6Hh40lyYEHCryzTXu4n7jGBLCmTGdN1dp3wYIxPR9rQRLuspSwETaZOkeqmw/w640-h454/003%20P1500371.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>The sun set just as Plunkett arrived at the door, without a thought he pushed it open and entered the hovel. He never heard the sound of wings flapping as he started to search for the treasure.</div><div><br /></div><div><i>OK enough of the moody pictures, just imagine it's dark.</i></div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiY9OjmZlinVTG8mEHGa2SEoPsYWU5S5QIJdYLn3qdhPozyU9aQfxandhFlQ5l69w0oBVOSRLhAXUWeuyeFr_TgquvMVYEEt0siMC5_iHS_C2G6pDDPtrl4qgJtMYqgUwrGHOygg2Hw-GzpoY8wZOKZKcoTXYJmrHSdT9SB_uiNl9wxtdFFnkIP0nCAeg/s700/004%20P1500372.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="407" data-original-width="700" height="372" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiY9OjmZlinVTG8mEHGa2SEoPsYWU5S5QIJdYLn3qdhPozyU9aQfxandhFlQ5l69w0oBVOSRLhAXUWeuyeFr_TgquvMVYEEt0siMC5_iHS_C2G6pDDPtrl4qgJtMYqgUwrGHOygg2Hw-GzpoY8wZOKZKcoTXYJmrHSdT9SB_uiNl9wxtdFFnkIP0nCAeg/w640-h372/004%20P1500372.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Neither did Vanity Dobbs, as she prepared to follow Plunkett into the building the Iki-Iki swooped down and attacked without warning.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_FCqtgJ4lm6ExiT4VFIZhs8QKV0VXpFyJ5VmkRIb5tDkOw_-YUkL-sW8sx6bOqhkdMNYlXCIyjQDcCBfbK67xFxOtpOsgY-lIqIv3-pQALqTaPQI3ekUKFocEZkWIP5TJiWhW6JAukWMCJ6mR5BbgCVwONKKWh9w9dBW_RBZOk8hYt8Wu0zMQGkVSHg/s700/005%20P1500373.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="419" data-original-width="700" height="384" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_FCqtgJ4lm6ExiT4VFIZhs8QKV0VXpFyJ5VmkRIb5tDkOw_-YUkL-sW8sx6bOqhkdMNYlXCIyjQDcCBfbK67xFxOtpOsgY-lIqIv3-pQALqTaPQI3ekUKFocEZkWIP5TJiWhW6JAukWMCJ6mR5BbgCVwONKKWh9w9dBW_RBZOk8hYt8Wu0zMQGkVSHg/w640-h384/005%20P1500373.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>She is taken completely by surprise and falls to the ground, the Iki-Iki feels the blood lust and kneels to drink. Plunkett alerted, turns and sees the dark form stooped over Vanity’s crumpled body, without thought he fires the pistol in his right hand and then the pistol in his left hand. He misses with both shots and realises he only has one re-load left!</div><div><br /></div><div>Damn and blast but he draws his trusty cutlass and prepares to fight for his life. The Iki-Iki is a cowardly creature though, and it flies off, secure in the knowledge that the fresh corpse will still be there when it returns, the blood may flow a little sluggishly but flow it will.</div><div><br /></div><div>William Plunkett is not the sharpest knife in the drawer, he picks up Vanity’s 2 loaded pistols and sticks them into his belt but he doesn’t think to search Vanity’s body for extra powder and shot. Leaving this behind and ignoring the threat of the Iki-Iki he sets off to search the next building.</div><div><br /></div><div><i>Yes, he is brave as well as stupid, a bad combination</i>.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifjBsnR4Nfg0EYORHVH_b-plUNgrFh1K-VG8Q9NMJfqoA3a1y6CKvTN0-yUDyBWsUaZuWK4HCP0nDDzVSVUQIV2XLlnFK88aISr9fVi-CmGdSQjRWGp_Lq2JQqIWiJDEpOMh3wFTOr8HPhTnGNqq2xX4zn81PikPgB2P-gh462eGoKXZobDAo5yF7CgQ/s700/006%20P1500374.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="356" data-original-width="700" height="326" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifjBsnR4Nfg0EYORHVH_b-plUNgrFh1K-VG8Q9NMJfqoA3a1y6CKvTN0-yUDyBWsUaZuWK4HCP0nDDzVSVUQIV2XLlnFK88aISr9fVi-CmGdSQjRWGp_Lq2JQqIWiJDEpOMh3wFTOr8HPhTnGNqq2xX4zn81PikPgB2P-gh462eGoKXZobDAo5yF7CgQ/w640-h326/006%20P1500374.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>The shot must have awakened the dead because two zombies appear above the wall surrounding the Church. They peer aggressively into the gloom of the night but don’t advance closer to Cptn Jack. (<i>I wonder if this is why the villagers left?</i>)</div><div><br /></div><div>Jack shouts - give them fire lads and his crew respond in their own individual way. Sally fires wildly but in spite of this, her rushed shot hits the target. The more experienced crew take a steady shot at the rather scary creatures. Jack himself is a hopeless marksman and consequently he misses but Honesty Jones the other local ruffian fires and hits her target. Unfortunately both she and Sally shoot at the same Zombie. It is hit it in the gut and left leg, unfortunately it's legs are protected by the stone wall and sparks fly from that strike.</div><div><br /></div><div>Well they would have, if it hadn’t been a soft lead ball but you get the gist.</div><div><br /></div><div>The gut shot drops the dead zombie with a severe wound? Honesty ruminates on the fact that she’s just fired her one and only ball. The reason she is on this adventure is because she’s so poor she can’t afford her next meal, let alone powder and shot; that was her first and last shot.</div><div><br /></div><div>She draws her cutlass and prepares to sell her life dearly. Maybe she will be able to buy more powder if she does sell it dearly, but then again what use will that be…it’s a bit of a circular argument really!!</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhB14iLvtVWHZCAE1XZrKAo83YtHj1vBwa3RU1jwvNfsmlkaPgfExhhCGFQdvLYlombfkXOEZbrHh41yEqfVcmq4SLvAfK-MK4pO3MdkSnIDPUqCVfGbFLkNWjDc1oMAHI4pWaBbi9EE1E_J7bGQnTnvggtnr95EkrGlvRbHHbTu5lCjYPc-GBHt0usZQ/s700/007%20P1500375.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="463" data-original-width="700" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhB14iLvtVWHZCAE1XZrKAo83YtHj1vBwa3RU1jwvNfsmlkaPgfExhhCGFQdvLYlombfkXOEZbrHh41yEqfVcmq4SLvAfK-MK4pO3MdkSnIDPUqCVfGbFLkNWjDc1oMAHI4pWaBbi9EE1E_J7bGQnTnvggtnr95EkrGlvRbHHbTu5lCjYPc-GBHt0usZQ/w640-h424/007%20P1500375.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>This new round of shooting has disturbed some spiders in the corn field. Normally that wouldn’t be an issue but these spiders are the size of small dogs and they start to move towards Black Jack, of course he isn’t aware of them because they’re the other side of the thick hedge.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyxaw1btT0lRVJyafkwUpsMMCWdFXFeaM2IAc5nBwwDZzpp7bDas5xuTcra5RiKmN_AMQmgiZvVShTF0m7FhEH6xCISWWEQMPA6iJuqmLAyLKKnV_LK50U7uXZErZJ59-csKiACqSKAb1wrnlWWP04_OPDAiU7gtop4ZDmfBHiYEPPJku8ouSxAHRM2g/s700/008%20P1500376.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="525" data-original-width="700" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyxaw1btT0lRVJyafkwUpsMMCWdFXFeaM2IAc5nBwwDZzpp7bDas5xuTcra5RiKmN_AMQmgiZvVShTF0m7FhEH6xCISWWEQMPA6iJuqmLAyLKKnV_LK50U7uXZErZJ59-csKiACqSKAb1wrnlWWP04_OPDAiU7gtop4ZDmfBHiYEPPJku8ouSxAHRM2g/w640-h480/008%20P1500376.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>The spiders are in the cornfield moving left towards Jack. William Plunkett is in the bottom right of the picture and can see the spiders.</div><div><br /></div><div>Jack and Sally fire on the Zombies, Jack misses again but Sally hits the other Zombie in it’s left arm, slightly stunning it but that’s better than Jack has done. Sally has 2 pistols and they’re both empty, Jack has 3 so one is still loaded.</div><div><br /></div><div>Mary and Honesty have both fired their single pistols and so drop them and charge at the Zombies, drawing their cutlasses on the way.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgE-pr87vdZno6cSZh8LPalKe0v37e_1wZoevaprIZ65KLLsil-vzCKpLTbgCZbqlhtkA1tazfUhVmzujcQSiQvX3TgZZCa2_F9WuAFNTu7OPgBFBon6FGSOKCsZUmJqBgiJfXr2rDihtLmdZHRCp7oOnnR1BPxhrf9-8OxLwTQaSyFkMQpzdW1fqJYOQ/s700/009%20P1500377.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="525" data-original-width="700" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgE-pr87vdZno6cSZh8LPalKe0v37e_1wZoevaprIZ65KLLsil-vzCKpLTbgCZbqlhtkA1tazfUhVmzujcQSiQvX3TgZZCa2_F9WuAFNTu7OPgBFBon6FGSOKCsZUmJqBgiJfXr2rDihtLmdZHRCp7oOnnR1BPxhrf9-8OxLwTQaSyFkMQpzdW1fqJYOQ/w640-h480/009%20P1500377.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Tooth and nail are no match for Sheffield steel and the cutlasses slice through the dead and they become dead......yet again. RIP.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGRdo2Uuo92S3hoe-ZPwkPbU5pcCNp1D5M9MZMxo2oVW7poBNhRQ2C3d1tJNlpiXlKn4CQgjzZ5emGrtB8YfbdkkhLTpm_YNCta1A6bRA5p-Ndx8BDgBxeIJueudwPj5RuPUxTIV4xgqFEro52y_1jpbtsDD65m_-e92xBKJEfkJXIpI4-PMxcirWH7g/s700/010%20P1500378.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="525" data-original-width="700" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGRdo2Uuo92S3hoe-ZPwkPbU5pcCNp1D5M9MZMxo2oVW7poBNhRQ2C3d1tJNlpiXlKn4CQgjzZ5emGrtB8YfbdkkhLTpm_YNCta1A6bRA5p-Ndx8BDgBxeIJueudwPj5RuPUxTIV4xgqFEro52y_1jpbtsDD65m_-e92xBKJEfkJXIpI4-PMxcirWH7g/w640-h480/010%20P1500378.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Plunkett having seen the spiders makes the fateful decision to fire on them. He hits and kills one but this has the unfortunate result of drawing the rest toward him. Fortunately they don’t seem to move very fast.</div><div><br /></div><div>Jack and Sally turn and peer through the hedge, they see the spiders, but decide it’s a good idea to reload their empty pistols before attracting unwanted attention. “Load as quick as you like” Jack says to Sally. Her reply is lost in the wind.</div><div><br /></div><div>Mary and Honesty are unaware of the spiders but are congratulating themselves on their easy victory over the Zombies. They return to collect their dropped pistols, wiping the blood from their blades as they do so.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_h0Qdrkb8PDSQ-2IiW384S85-itCA3KXxBPYnA7eEh92anRLxq4W3CrpyV1JRO16J2UANSemOpNP1tggxPRET0CB9qTieRTfW_pVmnp7avpGv0GEME-9ucFbkRn1xQTED24VFPNJWwvDND6_XgMqjo8xDocaCHPVUmvrxIYinKVnGOhjJxHujukHrkw/s700/011%20P1500380.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="435" data-original-width="700" height="398" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_h0Qdrkb8PDSQ-2IiW384S85-itCA3KXxBPYnA7eEh92anRLxq4W3CrpyV1JRO16J2UANSemOpNP1tggxPRET0CB9qTieRTfW_pVmnp7avpGv0GEME-9ucFbkRn1xQTED24VFPNJWwvDND6_XgMqjo8xDocaCHPVUmvrxIYinKVnGOhjJxHujukHrkw/w640-h398/011%20P1500380.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Plunkett looks on in horror when he realises that the spiders are going to activate before he will. They are close enough so that he doesn’t have time to shoot and draw his cutlass, so he just pulls the cold steel from it’s scabbard and prepares to fight.</div><div><br /></div><div>The first spider to reach him gets the pointy end of his blade and it dies a writhing mass of legs and other body parts. The 2nd one is slashed across the head, it’s badly wounded but not dead.</div><div><br /></div><div>Plunkett then activates first and in spite of being a brave thicko, he runs away, he easily outdistances them which is a bit of a relief.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8yemr7R_9s6gsWxmBsnF3kE3_2LEUzfT4QA2_iyrNQtEz9vMXg8UwX1DrfyGHPHMLqxd9MLvcnZ-3q4qBdmL1ilx2HiXOqrjqX3RSTIYCivTeQhJYgXYGIxxIqdz0S_v4IlsqBhPubLoQeyjyfterJBgwCQNXyZhn1Xpf0HB9cv2umZPOK4NVnrbaqA/s700/012%20P1500381.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="525" data-original-width="700" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8yemr7R_9s6gsWxmBsnF3kE3_2LEUzfT4QA2_iyrNQtEz9vMXg8UwX1DrfyGHPHMLqxd9MLvcnZ-3q4qBdmL1ilx2HiXOqrjqX3RSTIYCivTeQhJYgXYGIxxIqdz0S_v4IlsqBhPubLoQeyjyfterJBgwCQNXyZhn1Xpf0HB9cv2umZPOK4NVnrbaqA/w640-h480/012%20P1500381.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Jack and Sally hiding behind the hedge have loaded oneipistol each and they take careful aim and fire. Jack of course misses but Sally wounds one spider. The remaining healthy one turns and skitters towards her and Jack.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKGeWN6_q9mLzKTZRzBmCZ-7LS_R6cr3cBlOgjGCZKiFFe0n8vBbiPwdh75OUonAZ4S1s0WPwez-JoW3poMS0FJt9Mhy3pUoDmO8jc4cIe5Jgu4-8v5HB72ZDwFSTLVwWNN8cuqXDB_XmMsndLKMU7puILWQg4rOJCcFIFw79Tn9iaEJjJlsEsSrN9_w/s700/013%20P1500383.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="479" data-original-width="700" height="438" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKGeWN6_q9mLzKTZRzBmCZ-7LS_R6cr3cBlOgjGCZKiFFe0n8vBbiPwdh75OUonAZ4S1s0WPwez-JoW3poMS0FJt9Mhy3pUoDmO8jc4cIe5Jgu4-8v5HB72ZDwFSTLVwWNN8cuqXDB_XmMsndLKMU7puILWQg4rOJCcFIFw79Tn9iaEJjJlsEsSrN9_w/w640-h438/013%20P1500383.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Jack passes his last loaded pistol to Sally and urges her to kill the spider as it climbs over the hedge, she fires and misses!</div><div><br /></div><div>It skuttles up and over the hedge, Merlin’s Beard, Jack shouts as he draws his cutlass and wielding his weapon like a seasoned fighter he attacks the spider, the spider attacks him. The spider comes off 2nd best and dies in the hedgerow.</div><div><br /></div><div>The remaining injured spiders crawl off to their spidery den to lick their wounds or whatever spiders do, and are seen no more. Well not this night at least.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEWE1uo2S8QA4MnBqpwZdto3Ugt9yCoQAnTKrMznWaL1cIGHTpxuGwN9KVf_J8y8zeXAA-BcBlsPhIwv1Tuw9Hzr-cB9ux2rWCOVHNvDhUHcAkwKE-3zzgX6MD8lg2i-AhLyMI92OlNKm8JOlz9K2ujUT_gQ-6Qc7URbw-u_HQQ69od2XZLcC51_9tJQ/s700/014%20P1500382.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="436" data-original-width="700" height="398" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEWE1uo2S8QA4MnBqpwZdto3Ugt9yCoQAnTKrMznWaL1cIGHTpxuGwN9KVf_J8y8zeXAA-BcBlsPhIwv1Tuw9Hzr-cB9ux2rWCOVHNvDhUHcAkwKE-3zzgX6MD8lg2i-AhLyMI92OlNKm8JOlz9K2ujUT_gQ-6Qc7URbw-u_HQQ69od2XZLcC51_9tJQ/w640-h398/014%20P1500382.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Honesty Jones enters a building and after a quick search there is a whoop of joy as she discovers the treasure they are searching for.</div><div><br /></div><div>(Well that was easier than I expected. There are 13 locations that they need to search and I’m using the Spade suit of a deck of cards, when the Ace of Spades is turned up, that’s where the treasure is, this is only the 2nd card)</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEil_6JNhSnPeFpLn4XMh3SdPxBizPaBUfOgiwIzl68QoCnZX0I6-5uohAG5DpdxTkeJdCriHro3zmanqMMjrJ1OQovOyL0iv-kFDwfKl816SzaiCIuP9OJYjxBmb2fPethA3mUQSqebtr3APgEm5FmZ6bAA5hzZeqWUvMp8sex5Y4U3DhH5I39vDqjCgg/s700/015%20P1500384.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="484" data-original-width="700" height="442" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEil_6JNhSnPeFpLn4XMh3SdPxBizPaBUfOgiwIzl68QoCnZX0I6-5uohAG5DpdxTkeJdCriHro3zmanqMMjrJ1OQovOyL0iv-kFDwfKl816SzaiCIuP9OJYjxBmb2fPethA3mUQSqebtr3APgEm5FmZ6bAA5hzZeqWUvMp8sex5Y4U3DhH5I39vDqjCgg/w640-h442/015%20P1500384.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>It’s all over; the pirates gather round the treasure chest and wonder how much their share will be. Jack of course knows that his will be much greater than the rest; he is the Captain after all. They are jubilant at this easy success although Vanity might not agree about that. The clouds clear and the moon shines down.</div><div><br /></div><div>The full moon shines down!</div><div><br /></div><div>Then there’s a fearful howling.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQ_f9pup7lasSTv3rw9hzQtJ5ZrYh0n8bse3co3SAY0xtG28O7ENzUyEOri_71nJGHWqvmGNxVQ7yRYDU2jAU9nE1HF79253i2zszjzqqCUXI1Qk0FQSaiuEx6-cTN6Zm4hFEjdT69hV9DChOVof98sU6s-sPQbidjlcaYRj4F_rmIhyR2vmOZSgKTgg/s700/016%20P1500386.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="475" data-original-width="700" height="434" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQ_f9pup7lasSTv3rw9hzQtJ5ZrYh0n8bse3co3SAY0xtG28O7ENzUyEOri_71nJGHWqvmGNxVQ7yRYDU2jAU9nE1HF79253i2zszjzqqCUXI1Qk0FQSaiuEx6-cTN6Zm4hFEjdT69hV9DChOVof98sU6s-sPQbidjlcaYRj4F_rmIhyR2vmOZSgKTgg/w640-h434/016%20P1500386.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Rhazien is the Grand Daddy of werewolves, he’s huge and ferocious and hungry. He can’t see his food but he can smell it, his jaws start to drool, he’s hungry, very hungry, he howls again.</div><div><br /></div><div>This must be the real reason the village is deserted…..well deserted by humans at least.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgSKq-4Hb0spj2hmeNQIVvMdrAw0WUBaac5HwhC5-SkUT59wCgk84Ag0zpEHE3wsbSa9d3GLuQPz1IHMoWDU9p_gNaejwMn_jEuNcYn9kb0l6Qaz-YCkSedSclooeqiw_esC5lGZuoeLKFVukiXoXmNYZOqbXEAplw9xRP7eXuX-rAaKyzv2mG_JQHnw/s700/017%20P1500389.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="525" data-original-width="700" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgSKq-4Hb0spj2hmeNQIVvMdrAw0WUBaac5HwhC5-SkUT59wCgk84Ag0zpEHE3wsbSa9d3GLuQPz1IHMoWDU9p_gNaejwMn_jEuNcYn9kb0l6Qaz-YCkSedSclooeqiw_esC5lGZuoeLKFVukiXoXmNYZOqbXEAplw9xRP7eXuX-rAaKyzv2mG_JQHnw/w640-h480/017%20P1500389.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Rounding the corner of the decaying house he sees his prey and breaks into a run. Black Jack had already passed his last loaded pistol to Sally, recognising that she had a much better chance of a killing shot than he would. “Now lass, steady does it, make it count”. To be fair, she stood her ground and fired, there’s not many who would have done that, but she wanted to get her cutlass out of its scabbard before the beast was on top of her and she rushed the shot, which of course missed its target.</div><div><br /></div><div>Plunkett should have done better, he had 2 loaded pistols and fired them, one after the other, both shots missed and he was grateful everyone else was between him and the werewolf because 2 empty pistols aren’t weapon enough to take on this monster.</div><div><br /></div><div>Rhazien the Werewolf had the initiative and attacked the two at the front of the group, Honesty Jones in the green coat and Sally Salisbury in the blue blouse. They gave a good account of themselves both being better with a sword than a pistol. They inflicted some small cuts to the wolf, enough to make him step back, more in surprise than anything else.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjarusFJIuJbfAoe_MhuxVjcqKBAer1I-3yCJgKnWP_I2mFvR8Me4lnbXNtBiZmKS_GVQvkxEJsprforo5UVPp9Wt45FXIEioOnDK36ac3WNp1kwr92Q020nzJl7KtciiiSMVgEg1ErfH24Lcp3REmcLftJCs7bTDXVqK6PZ4NsHIl1UGvBJ0iOwjP7JA/s700/018%20P1500390.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="391" data-original-width="700" height="358" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjarusFJIuJbfAoe_MhuxVjcqKBAer1I-3yCJgKnWP_I2mFvR8Me4lnbXNtBiZmKS_GVQvkxEJsprforo5UVPp9Wt45FXIEioOnDK36ac3WNp1kwr92Q020nzJl7KtciiiSMVgEg1ErfH24Lcp3REmcLftJCs7bTDXVqK6PZ4NsHIl1UGvBJ0iOwjP7JA/w640-h358/018%20P1500390.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>The two girls follow up their advantage but it’s a precarious advantage and short lived as Honesty takes damage and they in turn are pushed back, both girls were still on their feet fighting and Mary “Cut-throat” Blazer has joined the fray.</div><div><br /></div><div>It’s not enough and with a mighty blow from his razor sharp claws Rhazien fells Honesty. She was the best swordsman of the 3 so this is a bitter blow. Sally is pushed back again and the fight is slowly going Rhazien’s way.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyiXrugOoTOut1WL9oyxBne7yMQq_nvEcEDJLF39Y0F6GjFN96VmOb6P19MwJAyFfg6Drn5Y6WLOJJQiXOFDVktiTg_SBoyPUwLPYyfMn1txzyq9QCpJb1xVeW4WzuGhjBcAPOFhBoG4D86d-m3kMG04oM5I-448LL_0Uz7QHxPGLwVL6i_PZTVi22DQ/s700/019%20P1500391.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="525" data-original-width="700" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyiXrugOoTOut1WL9oyxBne7yMQq_nvEcEDJLF39Y0F6GjFN96VmOb6P19MwJAyFfg6Drn5Y6WLOJJQiXOFDVktiTg_SBoyPUwLPYyfMn1txzyq9QCpJb1xVeW4WzuGhjBcAPOFhBoG4D86d-m3kMG04oM5I-448LL_0Uz7QHxPGLwVL6i_PZTVi22DQ/w640-h480/019%20P1500391.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Things change as Jack charges in on Rhazien’s left flank, the combat continues, but Jack is pretty handy with a sword (unlike the pistol) and the three of them deal more damage to the wolf and push it back again.</div><div><br /></div><div>Rhazien should be wolf burger but he isn’t, as well against the odds he fights them to a standstill, both side draw back for a breather and consider their next move.</div><div><br /></div><div>I roll some dice to see what the Werewolf will do. At this point he’s rolling about half as many dice as his opponents and if the fight continues the end is inevitable. I know he’s hungry but dead is dead.</div><div><br /></div><div>Anyway after the dice are rolled, with a bellow of rage and frustration he bounds back into the fight, and takes a beating. More damage and he’s close to exhaustion, so I roll some more dice to see if he’ll run and he does the sensible thing.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1IgUA_9BEcoPEZaR8RKHbN8tssPmrXx6Yh8NR4N8-5p9McCra64o0UNXnosYT-s-g2zn1pKt4OV-GM0_7Ip8qEj-01s4eF7iJMW67eym3FlnV54cOC7qxLgRrJLtG-HT7pbDuCPDvgHboUJcpKajvd5yIxWZfnuzeQfLBr4f-jLvTYfky6G9SQP5LBA/s700/020%20P1500392.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="525" data-original-width="700" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1IgUA_9BEcoPEZaR8RKHbN8tssPmrXx6Yh8NR4N8-5p9McCra64o0UNXnosYT-s-g2zn1pKt4OV-GM0_7Ip8qEj-01s4eF7iJMW67eym3FlnV54cOC7qxLgRrJLtG-HT7pbDuCPDvgHboUJcpKajvd5yIxWZfnuzeQfLBr4f-jLvTYfky6G9SQP5LBA/w640-h480/020%20P1500392.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>However as he turns to run Jack and Sally both hit him in the back and he looses his remaining vitality and his life as he drops to the floor….dead.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>There is a bit of an epilogue to the story:-</div><div><br /></div><div>Leaving Honesty and Vanity behind….well they’re dead and if Jack hang’s around to bury them who knows what dread creatures will turn up. (Each turn I have a card draw that determines if something will turn up and another one to decide who or what it might be.)</div><div><br /></div><div>You didn’t really think he would bury them though…..did you? Well really, that’s a bit naïve.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitnMv3Tm8jzAREehJm4rsUTR58_l4MeNQ9eHJNJsU0m7yo2k8WIz9WwdYHX7H6NhP-KR-W_LhGAu0I5UC8BWmCo-BOEs1Xrl22QV22TSOFjYnxlpBwvck8yP9AZkIm2CU3x3ZmTuzbEq0HsMxF0ki-ukD36t44jbStQXbySNjhGFKxktkgaBxOx2lXSA/s700/021%20P1500393.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="424" data-original-width="700" height="388" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitnMv3Tm8jzAREehJm4rsUTR58_l4MeNQ9eHJNJsU0m7yo2k8WIz9WwdYHX7H6NhP-KR-W_LhGAu0I5UC8BWmCo-BOEs1Xrl22QV22TSOFjYnxlpBwvck8yP9AZkIm2CU3x3ZmTuzbEq0HsMxF0ki-ukD36t44jbStQXbySNjhGFKxktkgaBxOx2lXSA/w640-h388/021%20P1500393.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Anyway Jack and the others carry the chest back towards the Dog and Weasel, no of course they don’t take it into the pub, the place is full of thieves and vagabonds, it wouldn’t be safe, so they bury it and draw a map, marking the spot with a cross. It’s a treasure map after all.</div><div><br /></div><div>Anyway, after a couple more flagons of Staggering Man stout, Jack lets slip that he’s heard a rumour about a Saxon Horde, reputedly it was a kings ransom, the others look interested, but this wanes a little as they press him for more information, “Why is it called a Saxon Horde” they ask and don’t like the answer….”because it’s guarded by a Horde of Saxons”. “They are dead Saxons though” he explains, slurring his speech a little from the effects of the stout, “what do you think, should we try and find it”?</div>Vagabondhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14031648950206231742noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7655102169795953648.post-67263155421999753252023-04-28T13:18:00.000+01:002023-04-28T13:18:03.189+01:00Operation Window Maker - The AttackThe team reached their jump off point as planned at 08:00 and split into the three attack groups.<div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhE3lOMTJtl4ITzNfpQxaj5MkSiOhGRhHEN_3mgYHn3i2YEupwgyWW4u6eFZwzmst-YsrJ2v6X0IFiCVgysjGDk6w9_Kk0BPWcHNtkt3kMhCMSNLFeNLO0uhx-hPmXw_-ztyhwRujTZMttLQ5xVm7hDpSD-zrO78Bq0oddg4cv0wnw5GbruzYZl0utbqg/s700/01%20P1500421.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="516" data-original-width="700" height="472" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhE3lOMTJtl4ITzNfpQxaj5MkSiOhGRhHEN_3mgYHn3i2YEupwgyWW4u6eFZwzmst-YsrJ2v6X0IFiCVgysjGDk6w9_Kk0BPWcHNtkt3kMhCMSNLFeNLO0uhx-hPmXw_-ztyhwRujTZMttLQ5xVm7hDpSD-zrO78Bq0oddg4cv0wnw5GbruzYZl0utbqg/w640-h472/01%20P1500421.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>I assumed it would take 1 hour plus 1D6 in 10 minute increments to reach their attack location. Breakfast rolled 1 so would arrive in 1 hour 10 minutes. Both the Explosive Specialist – Royal Marine Street and Assault Team Rainbow rolled 3 so arriving in 1 hour 30 minutes.</div><div><br /></div><div>The game started at 08:00, the attack was due to commence at 10:00.</div><div><br /></div><div>I checked and the helicopter was on the landing pad atop the building.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEKl4qYvC4yeaVyBQC6nTZCt-xGnHJCzIFRCIyBSsvNk5Q927LvvrOtGPy-B-EPg1mIVlzItYRnam7zdMkgHtN_z8ckpWUY4EiVsuxYq0WUylX9iuXmGUMQq5xt2xG4hHSQeQJ9qxgE-XUhDHh1mBb6dz-zF5fXlpwyeykjn0fos1Wyf0JxkazN-VoZw/s700/011%20P1500422.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="460" data-original-width="700" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEKl4qYvC4yeaVyBQC6nTZCt-xGnHJCzIFRCIyBSsvNk5Q927LvvrOtGPy-B-EPg1mIVlzItYRnam7zdMkgHtN_z8ckpWUY4EiVsuxYq0WUylX9iuXmGUMQq5xt2xG4hHSQeQJ9qxgE-XUhDHh1mBb6dz-zF5fXlpwyeykjn0fos1Wyf0JxkazN-VoZw/w640-h420/011%20P1500422.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>At 08:30 Helicopter Pilot Erika Klaus stepped out of the bar with Lola and Chardonnay they headed for the helicopter. Breakfast are still 40 minutes away and the other two teams are 90 minutes away.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYeG-bsQNw49L15ImNfRoQZKJNGbMMTU-zNxMJ_nZvFStF8tq_1u4RnXpsx_tVdwqKVtum87chc2GzQXO0nqDmiVi_CF81P-r41gLbjR40CASNaRAU7EWwMqWzvsc0W_9mnMn7x37ctgODKFfvluOg4hLKON_Kt44YaqCmFUjp0Xeb_fsJYZFoepIDKw/s700/012%20P1500424.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="458" data-original-width="700" height="418" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYeG-bsQNw49L15ImNfRoQZKJNGbMMTU-zNxMJ_nZvFStF8tq_1u4RnXpsx_tVdwqKVtum87chc2GzQXO0nqDmiVi_CF81P-r41gLbjR40CASNaRAU7EWwMqWzvsc0W_9mnMn7x37ctgODKFfvluOg4hLKON_Kt44YaqCmFUjp0Xeb_fsJYZFoepIDKw/w640-h418/012%20P1500424.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>09:00 after boarding and going through the routine flight checks they take off.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwWyO820PWST62MAn01otddkLyi6xfyqiPBcFt3ki9ewshUJ4lioYveenr7Py_A_lBNsyfbgZbYmz2M683wxOOXcesyb7UfvkPNkW98MM0QAxj9vskM-NFQB-msRi0UDHl8DpKvS4di0DR4avHWHxZo7x9v7qZRcqMRLFCR31PYRaMXflMFvmHZGLZaw/s700/013%20P1500425.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="700" height="412" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwWyO820PWST62MAn01otddkLyi6xfyqiPBcFt3ki9ewshUJ4lioYveenr7Py_A_lBNsyfbgZbYmz2M683wxOOXcesyb7UfvkPNkW98MM0QAxj9vskM-NFQB-msRi0UDHl8DpKvS4di0DR4avHWHxZo7x9v7qZRcqMRLFCR31PYRaMXflMFvmHZGLZaw/w640-h412/013%20P1500425.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>09:10 Breakfast arrive just off the South gate of the complex and Snap immediately hears something moving through the jungle. It’s almost certainly the tracked robotic vehicle (TRV) that had been previously identified trundling around the compound. Crackle steps of a twig and it goes Snap, the team freezes and the TRV halts.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhM8oOUS-tZxksOFDyvn_vJJUPd3lS8Km0q-sHSWNkszwnrA9Wfb9CVNJuP042H510zvp3eTMU3DXMTW6t2lgJTZtwaT3ZL9szqji2b6ay0V0fWBfJu9Q5JiDbHa6C0mgZHXV4bbWQtEl1NqE02eSYMszuyyVZbNc3hfRTsTnxbVqc_Mu006HajNgy-A/s700/014%20P1500426.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="391" data-original-width="700" height="358" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhM8oOUS-tZxksOFDyvn_vJJUPd3lS8Km0q-sHSWNkszwnrA9Wfb9CVNJuP042H510zvp3eTMU3DXMTW6t2lgJTZtwaT3ZL9szqji2b6ay0V0fWBfJu9Q5JiDbHa6C0mgZHXV4bbWQtEl1NqE02eSYMszuyyVZbNc3hfRTsTnxbVqc_Mu006HajNgy-A/w640-h358/014%20P1500426.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>9:15 The TRV doesn’t record any other movement and continues on its way. Crackle hears it move off and there is general relief amongst the team.</div><div><br /></div><div>As there was an uncertain arrival time the micro plan was that each team would arrive at the compound, identify their attack point and then back off into the jungle to avoid detection. Moving back up to the wire/wall just before 10:00 hours and kicking everything off on time.</div><div><br /></div><div>What do they say about no plan survives contact with the enemy!</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1kajEIXXtxAzFIkGJK1ddhwAK0f5g59ZlmKQkicjbmzYgcOaAO2QBqa_SVTA8Y900kRH-_LPZnUWIXDRqV1zQhAlL2CjdEwZdRKfI2y2WVerA0GqeRSMP2opnWhkKLryfLoCY5SDr8bVdMjsPscncyQ1x0e3MXHzsSJubmYdRDCF4W6XNJHnQ2SD5WQ/s700/015%20P1500427.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="430" data-original-width="700" height="394" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1kajEIXXtxAzFIkGJK1ddhwAK0f5g59ZlmKQkicjbmzYgcOaAO2QBqa_SVTA8Y900kRH-_LPZnUWIXDRqV1zQhAlL2CjdEwZdRKfI2y2WVerA0GqeRSMP2opnWhkKLryfLoCY5SDr8bVdMjsPscncyQ1x0e3MXHzsSJubmYdRDCF4W6XNJHnQ2SD5WQ/w640-h394/015%20P1500427.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Still 09:15 Zaira emerges from the bar area with two Foot Robotic bodyguards (FRB) and proceeds to wander around the compound in an erratic manner.</div><div><br /></div><div>He’s obviously taking his morning constitutional but Breakfast are engaged with the TRV and don’t see him. The other two teams are still making their way to the compound so also don’t see him.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy58ggkbM6H7lHEKn3lwWc0ZMb9tbF4aQRZ1D6GgpkBQKm9j_Ftu0vwSDOQGRv2f1l0fNBxmM6ekZhtvI9kG7T_ICJ_XgKxlh5z-d4OJ9yLRiKCL0glo3vfPoH3ppJtCQ8GqC4EfCmx4meotatMc6dOLH0ekNilbNihQN13sN7gTyyaYY5tUNmuIr6QA/s700/016%20P1500429.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="424" data-original-width="700" height="388" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy58ggkbM6H7lHEKn3lwWc0ZMb9tbF4aQRZ1D6GgpkBQKm9j_Ftu0vwSDOQGRv2f1l0fNBxmM6ekZhtvI9kG7T_ICJ_XgKxlh5z-d4OJ9yLRiKCL0glo3vfPoH3ppJtCQ8GqC4EfCmx4meotatMc6dOLH0ekNilbNihQN13sN7gTyyaYY5tUNmuIr6QA/w640-h388/016%20P1500429.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>09:20 Pop Pop moves forward stealthily, on her own and if she had been taller, about 5’ taller she would have seen Zaira in the distance but the brown container obscured her line of sight. Such are the vagaries of a mission at Vagabond Manor that the game could have been over before the official start time of 10:00 if she had been able to take that shot.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbuG_diyt90XICpL-9yMzDspFqz_scsy1DGhX6eFhAO-4YWUamApKurxulvIZ13QpPm3NgF0M-VA7Dbu-jr1_Zo6PXln3l_XWE0DqmhgS6Tlaox8-509f-PNiY2NATnnc9DGxkWUy2mVGDU-3FA1WpX4_bFMCH-ii4z9TObypo319b20sEWKIMVdyQ2w/s700/017%20P1500431.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="394" data-original-width="700" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbuG_diyt90XICpL-9yMzDspFqz_scsy1DGhX6eFhAO-4YWUamApKurxulvIZ13QpPm3NgF0M-VA7Dbu-jr1_Zo6PXln3l_XWE0DqmhgS6Tlaox8-509f-PNiY2NATnnc9DGxkWUy2mVGDU-3FA1WpX4_bFMCH-ii4z9TObypo319b20sEWKIMVdyQ2w/w640-h360/017%20P1500431.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>09:25 She had to hit the dirt as she heard a 2nd TRV trundling from the west or her left, it then moved into view but didn’t spot her.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9E0ci5W1EzOb4ZpUvw0BcgW03NoVaRK9gZT85jH-IJq3zr0NV3APkFpvEKlX2MZ9A51qqnVFek6SIFIR50cxx75wP_X5tRG0Jdb_Z2B1rSZpNKncOB9rq2t3FqmbeGu6tmW3filgfo-qa9GBDzjVm77HEAo0vHoTKLqEHnODDWUcqpmzKjhrJOPuLsA/s700/018%20P1500433.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="452" data-original-width="700" height="414" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9E0ci5W1EzOb4ZpUvw0BcgW03NoVaRK9gZT85jH-IJq3zr0NV3APkFpvEKlX2MZ9A51qqnVFek6SIFIR50cxx75wP_X5tRG0Jdb_Z2B1rSZpNKncOB9rq2t3FqmbeGu6tmW3filgfo-qa9GBDzjVm77HEAo0vHoTKLqEHnODDWUcqpmzKjhrJOPuLsA/w640-h414/018%20P1500433.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>09:30 The Explosive Specialist, Marine Street reached the compound, she could see a FRB on patrol but it didn’t see her. You might have trouble spotting her as well, but her base is more visible than she is.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhd3YPv_HeeWbfRrsaxEOBP9ZnfBga8hHAuCx0r8ZuPQ5ma3gHumQpEYDSwvpE-wOo_Pvrc1BoBtOhzn2ILlfuXLhwGqlHcWbZABIu1MYlO_vgkdVJgVRSpRAT1Hh37gVJsziB_YH8djvys8hTa0yPNenYxxNLpyUGaR-wP4V2MhjqFlYjaQjOjK_xJXg/s700/019%20P1500438.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="457" data-original-width="700" height="418" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhd3YPv_HeeWbfRrsaxEOBP9ZnfBga8hHAuCx0r8ZuPQ5ma3gHumQpEYDSwvpE-wOo_Pvrc1BoBtOhzn2ILlfuXLhwGqlHcWbZABIu1MYlO_vgkdVJgVRSpRAT1Hh37gVJsziB_YH8djvys8hTa0yPNenYxxNLpyUGaR-wP4V2MhjqFlYjaQjOjK_xJXg/w640-h418/019%20P1500438.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>09:30 Team Rainbow also arrive at the compound wall but this doesn’t go so well. Magenta makes a noise as she approaches and an FRB detects the sound and turns in her direction. She realizes that the FRB has seen her because it raises its gun but she is faster.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlY-t7cstc4MgAd2ER5o13nMbEofmcMFgEALd-R-X1MvTIAIAUI7A0Nx5GSkrgc-a_8YtrrfTsBfJb2krWG8stQ-zHsHEf0K7ecFfqfGNDy5g2-koJuB_NSRz16EPkIIOXysLHwwReBbHFUs9CVogmlC76VJiK5uO4v9EuvTqyJdv55TYK206YZdRuyQ/s700/020%20P1500439.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="461" data-original-width="700" height="422" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlY-t7cstc4MgAd2ER5o13nMbEofmcMFgEALd-R-X1MvTIAIAUI7A0Nx5GSkrgc-a_8YtrrfTsBfJb2krWG8stQ-zHsHEf0K7ecFfqfGNDy5g2-koJuB_NSRz16EPkIIOXysLHwwReBbHFUs9CVogmlC76VJiK5uO4v9EuvTqyJdv55TYK206YZdRuyQ/w640-h422/020%20P1500439.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Fast and accurate is a good combination, her reflexes take over and she fires without conscious thought and hits its centre of mass, right in the chest or at least the bundle of cables and steel tubing that would be its chest if it had a chest. It falls to the ground fizzing and popping as this happens and fuelled by the adrenaline rush, Miss Magenta is quickly over the wall and making her way to the bar which is assumed to be the HQ.</div><div><br /></div><div>On reflection I can’t remember why I made that assumption but there must have been a good reason.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivqMH43sD8RyA59yvP08Ypz-gMsatMnvE_TbvT91zAfkbwj3Tpc53-2BRi0uF8fMCPkFKf_Dy5WJW41ecroMq0XID4qo0UOsKGBHPoll86cM_NezTjZvizkr5KsMsGdETqiZm8UarER-yVggfTYkDLW9Dgv3DJTmo9Lq92gqyBpuArQmc6P5FF_r19Uw/s700/021%20P1500442.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="475" data-original-width="700" height="434" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivqMH43sD8RyA59yvP08Ypz-gMsatMnvE_TbvT91zAfkbwj3Tpc53-2BRi0uF8fMCPkFKf_Dy5WJW41ecroMq0XID4qo0UOsKGBHPoll86cM_NezTjZvizkr5KsMsGdETqiZm8UarER-yVggfTYkDLW9Dgv3DJTmo9Lq92gqyBpuArQmc6P5FF_r19Uw/w640-h434/021%20P1500442.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>The sound of gunfire attracts another TRV, it turn’s from its preordained circuit and make its way to the East side of the compound.</div><div><br /></div><div>The picture is largely irrelevant, it’s only included because I quite like it. Sorry.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiA7S2v28TJuD_SqX7-x3QOJmu0EDCISv00LRYjc51IPQXADdxiMCm2zwsnc1bgunwX36lGjhenaTsJJMnR4fuA1hI33x7jc5kblIQARNvo-HcLYEIUQ0JX4HdkcE_bboT_dhWscZ9JUyxztQ1RcjFOBgQcGHvQFbleoyoYxuqQDld_V3GJASN3iWdXWg/s700/022%20P1500444.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="449" data-original-width="700" height="410" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiA7S2v28TJuD_SqX7-x3QOJmu0EDCISv00LRYjc51IPQXADdxiMCm2zwsnc1bgunwX36lGjhenaTsJJMnR4fuA1hI33x7jc5kblIQARNvo-HcLYEIUQ0JX4HdkcE_bboT_dhWscZ9JUyxztQ1RcjFOBgQcGHvQFbleoyoYxuqQDld_V3GJASN3iWdXWg/w640-h410/022%20P1500444.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Zaira is spooked by the sound of gunfire, as well he might be because it’s pretty close to where he had perambulated to. He immediately turns, and protected by his FRB’s he sets off back to the safety of the bar, the building on the left of the picture. This is a cautious retreat; they don’t want to run into trouble unaware and also don’t know Magenta is just the other side of the storage unit. You can see where Magenta has reached fuelled by her adrenaline rush, she also doesn’t know Zaira is loose in the compound and the other side of the building.</div><div><br /></div><div>The rest of Rainbow team are still on the far side of the compound wall.</div><div><br /></div><div>The gunfire kicks off the start of the action 30 minutes before planned.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj16HOfOIsmTKZ5PxF-gEANTIIUENuyTL0Q_6rliBHvRKMCpQ3TzeX7OEdcRsQ4zWz71wmQq6xDcEKc3zHaVg5UYfypMNbWdJ8gf81VS9QvUz0MLUeES-bSeXMAu8A69WbpV00LSxEMSOAGxwfbEShbUvcpT83cVlYnCKyv3e2QR1o3r11i3pLSIt4MzQ/s700/023%20P1500445.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="460" data-original-width="700" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj16HOfOIsmTKZ5PxF-gEANTIIUENuyTL0Q_6rliBHvRKMCpQ3TzeX7OEdcRsQ4zWz71wmQq6xDcEKc3zHaVg5UYfypMNbWdJ8gf81VS9QvUz0MLUeES-bSeXMAu8A69WbpV00LSxEMSOAGxwfbEShbUvcpT83cVlYnCKyv3e2QR1o3r11i3pLSIt4MzQ/w640-h420/023%20P1500445.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Marine Explosive Expert Danielle Steel can see a FRB through the wire and decides her best course of action is to shoot it.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKC1ckGpYyYMr_jxzOAiAElGRoFZJUxxfL77yFRUdRBKptcWA51NCfwK6fJS0IPsazuzjPcnj4weAyibchNrlhY-KcYfGOKKj0uXgQ5LAfuYJuP1Hp5P--NQaDdRSQpvRtfbkqyR52SbPkJFN-DUYlImnMvO7aMoFQM_oY_ojUnRFLMb7IYegsG6sQPA/s700/024%20P1500446.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="493" data-original-width="700" height="450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKC1ckGpYyYMr_jxzOAiAElGRoFZJUxxfL77yFRUdRBKptcWA51NCfwK6fJS0IPsazuzjPcnj4weAyibchNrlhY-KcYfGOKKj0uXgQ5LAfuYJuP1Hp5P--NQaDdRSQpvRtfbkqyR52SbPkJFN-DUYlImnMvO7aMoFQM_oY_ojUnRFLMb7IYegsG6sQPA/w640-h450/024%20P1500446.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>This turns out to be a bad decision because she misses, it turns…and she gets off a 2nd salvo of SMG fire in its direction but misses again, the FRB then returns the fire it’s armed with some sort of auto cannon and doesn’t miss. Street hits the dirt, hard and reflects she needs more range time. Blowing things up is fun but shooting straight is going to save your life.</div><div><br /></div><div>Then she reflects that it would be nice to get out of here to be able to get more range time.</div><div><br /></div><div>She’s out of the fight, OOF, badly injured but not dead…..yet.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEGTIgI47cgLHN05WU4VDo119Ju4PutsICvshsudHIzjYXzeHdzUDehIlZi6L0eB115PO49MDpOewMRQHydSgvF-Qnvkiu4Y_6Pb3uN3LffgjOhzYp5EzkJLCj-XjqBTZtUHV4gJfSnpo2L7IZUdXLZYQQq8XffUaB_5_3VDT0yLsiHeJjY4hSSHMmcg/s700/025%20P1500447.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="525" data-original-width="700" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEGTIgI47cgLHN05WU4VDo119Ju4PutsICvshsudHIzjYXzeHdzUDehIlZi6L0eB115PO49MDpOewMRQHydSgvF-Qnvkiu4Y_6Pb3uN3LffgjOhzYp5EzkJLCj-XjqBTZtUHV4gJfSnpo2L7IZUdXLZYQQq8XffUaB_5_3VDT0yLsiHeJjY4hSSHMmcg/w640-h480/025%20P1500447.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Pop Pop and the rest of Breakfast are held up by the TRV, it’s moving around the perimeter towards the sound of firing but having a little trouble with tree roots etc and only moving slowly. Breakfast are a Sniper Team and don’t fancy mixing it with this well armed machine.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhc7zhyNxCQm9L3-kJGUiSRdrPrXzCEXGu77wFz2uY4V4vMemBHq5RK-w0iO0JeDGwBxloeO-strR5mcnCGB3pBV3RfXbHqQP8Cc_LxOm-yex7Li9qfkLhPiXIutrtnEEu1NhOSACSxYayOd1a2a7dToMhwz386XMdZnAG44W0wSqR0anXMW2jTLU100g/s700/026%20P1500443.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="391" data-original-width="700" height="358" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhc7zhyNxCQm9L3-kJGUiSRdrPrXzCEXGu77wFz2uY4V4vMemBHq5RK-w0iO0JeDGwBxloeO-strR5mcnCGB3pBV3RfXbHqQP8Cc_LxOm-yex7Li9qfkLhPiXIutrtnEEu1NhOSACSxYayOd1a2a7dToMhwz386XMdZnAG44W0wSqR0anXMW2jTLU100g/w640-h358/026%20P1500443.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>All the remaining FRB’s react to the shooting and call for orders. They need new orders to override their pre-programmed instructions. Control is apparently sleeping and doesn’t respond but Mrs White…you remember Agent White, she’s in the same building as Control and hearing the shots assumes, rightly, that the attack has started. She picks up a kitchen knife and moves warily towards Control. </div><div><br /></div><div>It’s going to take 2 moves to get there. He needs to remain inactive next move or she will be discovered….he has a gun! It’s a bit of a tense time in the Bar.</div><div><br /></div><div>This FRB turns and sees the rest of Rainbow who have followed Magenta over the wall.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjD06aLIDoYTDhHpcnEM8CRSkl3C76iIlSJ--L5q48CCobVSFeOMYN9aqsduBPvB5N_L9QFP0kDikbwT8QUeC_joWDAggFcWh6gcx467XYiuooVzIQlNFxXlhZNI94utzwX6mJfNxMXYRyjvj5zMbvvXRTrBRMq7H9DfqEOXop73wcIaRqZLKToAJql5Q/s700/027%20P1500449.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="525" data-original-width="700" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjD06aLIDoYTDhHpcnEM8CRSkl3C76iIlSJ--L5q48CCobVSFeOMYN9aqsduBPvB5N_L9QFP0kDikbwT8QUeC_joWDAggFcWh6gcx467XYiuooVzIQlNFxXlhZNI94utzwX6mJfNxMXYRyjvj5zMbvvXRTrBRMq7H9DfqEOXop73wcIaRqZLKToAJql5Q/w640-h480/027%20P1500449.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>You remember the TRV, the one I liked the picture of? Well it moved back toward the shooting and into line of sight of Rainbow, they are now over the outer wall. A gunfight ensues, the majority of Rainbow take cover behind this low wall but Purple and Magenta return fire and both score a hit. They are using some form of explosive charge weapons and firing through a wire fence. Unfortunately one of these hit’s was a hit on the fence and explodes on contact but the other slipped through the mesh and took out the TRV.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhO87Ogg4uMs0CMPe6pgrnQJakV5Dl4SDZzT-KKKkIbW_JKt5RmiXJcYT5IS8vrsdlyYS5_2Q7d-i7i0Kh8NvlMPUVX5Dj6Y-UeHMMR-Y8UCwmmwYT1nFIPc1Ybd6QrvuZMUIcRNZpZ2A6Qh2CZ0svEQtGRqQSFD8wVgSpqo1NZTa8yd9EL6eB_Rcxong/s700/028%20P1500452.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="397" data-original-width="700" height="362" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhO87Ogg4uMs0CMPe6pgrnQJakV5Dl4SDZzT-KKKkIbW_JKt5RmiXJcYT5IS8vrsdlyYS5_2Q7d-i7i0Kh8NvlMPUVX5Dj6Y-UeHMMR-Y8UCwmmwYT1nFIPc1Ybd6QrvuZMUIcRNZpZ2A6Qh2CZ0svEQtGRqQSFD8wVgSpqo1NZTa8yd9EL6eB_Rcxong/w640-h362/028%20P1500452.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Zaira and bodyguards are getting close to the Bar, he’ll soon be safe inside. They hear a scream from the building. Agent White has reached the Control and stuck the kitchen knife in him. Control is Johnny Mo and he’s now the ex Johnny Mo. She needs to reach the bar door to lock and bolt it before Zaira enters. Will she make it in time.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEija5GHpqqoYMKu7oaE7emXNTFhtooEWBdestJ3JPrvxEmkvTJBJpGjTif7gBCR95JkTTDxbqrvbGiLKrC1rJvOJgOHrUM5gsLp1vWIztdOEW1B-8Aw_XinMOF2-3W5n4tIRf-tQIYKRmAgeIETuXuM4AXVc7ZE6lSzwN_mVsNwJyvBsRo6Bh15rKET3g/s700/029%20P1500448.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="475" data-original-width="700" height="434" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEija5GHpqqoYMKu7oaE7emXNTFhtooEWBdestJ3JPrvxEmkvTJBJpGjTif7gBCR95JkTTDxbqrvbGiLKrC1rJvOJgOHrUM5gsLp1vWIztdOEW1B-8Aw_XinMOF2-3W5n4tIRf-tQIYKRmAgeIETuXuM4AXVc7ZE6lSzwN_mVsNwJyvBsRo6Bh15rKET3g/w640-h434/029%20P1500448.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Meanwhile the FRB by the North Gate has been having a bit of a torrid time and Miss Magenta has shot it through the head, it is now defunct.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYoBCu1eb4SIFJLBRO7L8yZMahZecuY99ua0PRVZmy22MUt5WfoACHz9zSwMhSOzViEDIn90SEXSbNKyAAqh6vJbb0LMe1GVO6SKAzqaBUoQxgbVdmzAWfmE4yM4ftUEc1HY2IMVcbsxtoaF038sl1AcFqB5fiNegaWffVMQdmHzZVMAy-BhTqU2alZg/s700/030%20P1500453.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="525" data-original-width="700" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYoBCu1eb4SIFJLBRO7L8yZMahZecuY99ua0PRVZmy22MUt5WfoACHz9zSwMhSOzViEDIn90SEXSbNKyAAqh6vJbb0LMe1GVO6SKAzqaBUoQxgbVdmzAWfmE4yM4ftUEc1HY2IMVcbsxtoaF038sl1AcFqB5fiNegaWffVMQdmHzZVMAy-BhTqU2alZg/w640-h480/030%20P1500453.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Zaira’s lead FRB sees Miss Purple as she moves forward, there’s an exchange of fire and Purple doesn’t survive it, Rainbows first casualty is dead before hitting the ground.</div><div><br /></div><div>To be fair the FRB is rather cheating because it has some form of armour piercing cannon and a huge drum of ammunition, but I don’t suppose it thinks of cheating or anything else really.</div><div><br /></div><div>Zaira makes a run for the bar door and reaches it before Agent White, be bursts through and in spite of his short stature he’s a very powerful man and puts her OOF. Well that didn’t go as I’d have liked.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1wFmmBGrRX8X0MY3b3fvVk-hguvf0vQbhzr7DJwi22cCuh_1O309hYhqKWfcll80SC0ZtOFPS4Jhd_jzcyC-6slXvGA6XJE7qX6NQpJVAVAjVs8Qgjm2M3WsEi6cC14uRBgxsTB2VxNX_aU8cDqixSdH1oF09rWkSA_5TOr8D6n60iqrrTc7xseL2yw/s700/031%20P1500457.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="525" data-original-width="700" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1wFmmBGrRX8X0MY3b3fvVk-hguvf0vQbhzr7DJwi22cCuh_1O309hYhqKWfcll80SC0ZtOFPS4Jhd_jzcyC-6slXvGA6XJE7qX6NQpJVAVAjVs8Qgjm2M3WsEi6cC14uRBgxsTB2VxNX_aU8cDqixSdH1oF09rWkSA_5TOr8D6n60iqrrTc7xseL2yw/w640-h480/031%20P1500457.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Miss Green and Miss Blue move forward to attack the FRB with the big cannon, as you can see Green didn’t survive the encounter but neither did the FRB, she’s bleeding on the ground and he’s leaking hydraulic oil or whatever robots leak when they’ve had various pipes and cables severed.</div><div><br /></div><div>It’s not clear in the picture but there’s another FRB behind the black SUV, it can’t see Miss Blue and she can’t see it.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAs-Ov1NHvC7bSm8AtTWOMNvNrSgiIee8HttClpe_uqRF85-WphSN9Yq--NsadUbkmCSkPLbYpKUSwrOuLltZO10TWN_nqNuLV8ztk4zm0FU8gdDRNoSHaQJE2LsdUP2w4HyR1H25VDqfNlbv_KO3mT7QPDFFiqbgNojKj-Cbd5eIMZqGRnANfnXpYTw/s700/032%20P1500458.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="525" data-original-width="700" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAs-Ov1NHvC7bSm8AtTWOMNvNrSgiIee8HttClpe_uqRF85-WphSN9Yq--NsadUbkmCSkPLbYpKUSwrOuLltZO10TWN_nqNuLV8ztk4zm0FU8gdDRNoSHaQJE2LsdUP2w4HyR1H25VDqfNlbv_KO3mT7QPDFFiqbgNojKj-Cbd5eIMZqGRnANfnXpYTw/w640-h480/032%20P1500458.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Well not until it moves closer towards the bar door. There’s a huge fire fight. Miss Blue goes down first, then Miss Magenta is shot. Just in case you’re not counting that’s 4 out of the 5 members of team Rainbow down and only Miss Scarlet the Team Leader still standing.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipnYnq2hfNpDvPiWrs-UZcusgbJQ0atLUJ-ZiMkUwEk1nMiBy4SdC8pXFtFV13i7olLhPgMI2iF0KRu9OEI-Cz_m4tzKh3nUdNwzW_UTHFZfREjZOC8PvYtGQeN7WdG32E6YzM_y8zqxg9Sk4845D4OJPs4gPkA3ZLFzQGMmo8LFR-IH9hd9rYtE4z4g/s700/033%20P1500461.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="449" data-original-width="700" height="410" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipnYnq2hfNpDvPiWrs-UZcusgbJQ0atLUJ-ZiMkUwEk1nMiBy4SdC8pXFtFV13i7olLhPgMI2iF0KRu9OEI-Cz_m4tzKh3nUdNwzW_UTHFZfREjZOC8PvYtGQeN7WdG32E6YzM_y8zqxg9Sk4845D4OJPs4gPkA3ZLFzQGMmo8LFR-IH9hd9rYtE4z4g/w640-h410/033%20P1500461.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>You don’t get to lead a team like Rainbow without being a bit bold, brave and handy with a weapon and in the final exchange of fire it’s the FRB that falls and Miss Scarlet who is victorious.</div><div><br /></div><div>Then there’s a sharp rifle crack as Pop Pop, tired of watching the TRV make it’s slow way around the compound, has decided to shoot it in the back. The Geneva Conventions are OK with this and the shot takes it out of the fight.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguvn8byP4iRs37ZDEiufpiCoYrp6S87h0Riw6Iq6msGQ5hA51zAcfoKBItM66b1vMbMXAa_Z15V2NUSFvk4vZFfcaJ0jBR5_4ikcKzAmAd-8eSRUYIT-rJKB3Nd_pSiqLGZ2p03XWGAOHkzm6pTqf3f0Nbscs0Lku4VoeNBBZIXJwePj1Q3YUYMWMwSw/s700/034%20P1500465.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="444" data-original-width="700" height="406" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguvn8byP4iRs37ZDEiufpiCoYrp6S87h0Riw6Iq6msGQ5hA51zAcfoKBItM66b1vMbMXAa_Z15V2NUSFvk4vZFfcaJ0jBR5_4ikcKzAmAd-8eSRUYIT-rJKB3Nd_pSiqLGZ2p03XWGAOHkzm6pTqf3f0Nbscs0Lku4VoeNBBZIXJwePj1Q3YUYMWMwSw/w640-h406/034%20P1500465.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>This action draws another FRB into the fight. It’s directive was to guard the south gate but seeing the TRV blown up, right in front of the south gate, a move of a couple of yards to see where the firing came from seems quite reasonable. Even so it was mentally preparing its defence in case it had to answer to the RAT’s (Robotic and Tracks) court of enquiry. This was a mistake because splitting its computing power between a court defence and a firing solution meant that it missed both Pop Pop and Snap, they ducked down into the undergrowth.</div><div><br /></div><div>Just in case you’re wondering what the score is, let me remind you. Rainbow is fragmented, two dead and two badly wounded. There’s only Scarlet still operational, she can’t carry 2 wounded and decides to leave them both and head for the south of the compound and join up with Breakfast. She decides she must maintain radio silence and reasons that there’s not been much gunfire from Breakfasts area and so they are probably still operational.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYry8S9QsjSKM8A7bZc_uxAyTQOnQ6GFKLQqLCWYhiAFtZPuXn6Hhod380S4GmO-HYE0gcifVfp28mGbeVp7UvyajBJjG_MNPt78lbiyIYAuwEj50BcV_iOJ9AyLvl_u84Wt5Gdspshcs4OthvConUSEypvwfAwv37MPzDZ4VShAQxxTC7zQr0-nXEWg/s700/035%20P1500467.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="442" data-original-width="700" height="404" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYry8S9QsjSKM8A7bZc_uxAyTQOnQ6GFKLQqLCWYhiAFtZPuXn6Hhod380S4GmO-HYE0gcifVfp28mGbeVp7UvyajBJjG_MNPt78lbiyIYAuwEj50BcV_iOJ9AyLvl_u84Wt5Gdspshcs4OthvConUSEypvwfAwv37MPzDZ4VShAQxxTC7zQr0-nXEWg/w640-h404/035%20P1500467.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Marine street is wounded and incapable of moving but no one knows that, so she’s on her own.</div><div><br /></div><div>Four FRB’s and 1 RTV are down, deactivated by Scarlet’s team, and there’s 1 RTV deactivated by Pop Pop.</div><div><br /></div><div>Breakfast are the only team still in the game, they are pinned down and decide they must maintain radio silence too, they know that there’s 1 FRB shooting at them from the South Gate area and surmise that as the last sound of gunfire in the west was an Auto canon that there’s at least 1 FRB or RTV in that area and certainly 1 RTV went round to the east and hasn’t been seen since. They believe they are on their own and react accordingly.</div><div><br /></div><div>I almost forgot, Zaira is in the bar but Breakfast don’t know this, Scarlet does know this but as she’s maintaining radio silence she doesn’t pass on the information. Zaira has called for his helicopter to come and pick him up but it’s over 1 hour flying time away and probably doesn’t have enough fuel to make the return trip. He’s on his own, so locks and bars the steel door to the bar and it’s going to take explosives to get in. As Marine Street is the only one who can use explosives it’s looking a bit bleak for the mission.</div><div><br /></div><div>Breakfast are professionals and they have a pride in getting the job done, so they decide to give it one more shot. Pop Pop checks to see if the FRB is still there, she Pop’s up, it sees her and fires, missing as she ducks back down again.</div><div><br /></div><div>The FRB continues to fire at Pop Pop and there’s an ominous click as it runs out of ammunition. This is a golden opportunity for Breakfast.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjziWfTaBz7oekH1rVVaP_wjr8ItmWKqkNxG29_EYpcqm373vSSJuWxMbwBPdcupVD1z2W21CmnTSWYFpqk3eJkK9T6WHj8zM_rg4VnVMYPxJkftevI8Dr1kyxFA7ziZwFiOzJ464952DnK3YtrRvqhdFnUD8n62SMC_zT3LGsVQvCG2wcPyDlULHX7PA/s700/036%20P1500471.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="525" data-original-width="700" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjziWfTaBz7oekH1rVVaP_wjr8ItmWKqkNxG29_EYpcqm373vSSJuWxMbwBPdcupVD1z2W21CmnTSWYFpqk3eJkK9T6WHj8zM_rg4VnVMYPxJkftevI8Dr1kyxFA7ziZwFiOzJ464952DnK3YtrRvqhdFnUD8n62SMC_zT3LGsVQvCG2wcPyDlULHX7PA/w640-h480/036%20P1500471.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Crackle runs down to the fence and starts to cut through it as Pop Pop and Snap rise and fire at the out of ammo Robot. Yes I know it’s a bit unfair but it’s the only way they are going to get the job done.</div><div><br /></div><div>Snap’s submachine gun stutters and also runs out of ammunition but not before she’s unloaded most of the clip into the FRB and it collapses as it’s electrical circuits short out and it fries.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwzf4B9FV2F-hs6LwcUyqadryHkbi-lDtoCDvQ16ebtunPnlrw5rZuN97XDWAQIJpFMfij4IMbcUNy2AcAOYzpCoEdj9iSZXbaeJSlHFgyUrp1THkM_LdsoBFVHecFc4sCRyWWkk3uBVcdUGAUfLfMEFc48pHzhP_B5jBzkNeb63-DEQO9Ck6kubcUug/s700/037%20P1500470.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="525" data-original-width="700" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwzf4B9FV2F-hs6LwcUyqadryHkbi-lDtoCDvQ16ebtunPnlrw5rZuN97XDWAQIJpFMfij4IMbcUNy2AcAOYzpCoEdj9iSZXbaeJSlHFgyUrp1THkM_LdsoBFVHecFc4sCRyWWkk3uBVcdUGAUfLfMEFc48pHzhP_B5jBzkNeb63-DEQO9Ck6kubcUug/w640-h480/037%20P1500470.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Having gone through the wire Crackle sees this FRB coming towards her. She fires first and misses, its return fire misses also but she gets it with her next burst and it’s down.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEig2bSL34nSzWjpOTJR1u_2uTgivKFj4Q9j3Jick5I1TbncCZ43RsWz141XIvdZdCeE7uvo_sPjxb7XhClS1P2QFfPohe2lNxQa6QkgmIndhuAaj0Ri7QkGuBVdzulG6GJhSFjeDx8cs8Ik8BBdgn2Yvcx1YiLXeY5fAAnPUlFb6tgOFqQIePgp6iSjtw/s700/038%20P1500473.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="438" data-original-width="700" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEig2bSL34nSzWjpOTJR1u_2uTgivKFj4Q9j3Jick5I1TbncCZ43RsWz141XIvdZdCeE7uvo_sPjxb7XhClS1P2QFfPohe2lNxQa6QkgmIndhuAaj0Ri7QkGuBVdzulG6GJhSFjeDx8cs8Ik8BBdgn2Yvcx1YiLXeY5fAAnPUlFb6tgOFqQIePgp6iSjtw/w640-h400/038%20P1500473.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>An eerie silence descends on the compound as Breakfast start to advance, taking up covering positions and then leapfrogging forward in the approved fashion. There is no sign of movement from the bar but Scarlet comes round the corner of a building and sees them. She shouts and lets them know that Zaira is still in the bar, they have him trapped.</div><div><br /></div><div>Of course he’s trapped behind an impregnable door.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGAaRQ7W_RxkOMdIYHb8QSl5cV_gN19qpwBr4OTY5jYSrXuQNK7xNGmDTzRJKl531TxoQNU1wq_tWcX2lSDgiVTyTX9CfcUaSYO2gYM8qo-mDNl7O6atppeZqpWwrwsvsTZIE5bqERRtAFe2Cx8F7FHbst5ur4yGo9-xEab2tqwELqgrGk9cCulb9ysw/s700/039%20P1500475.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="461" data-original-width="700" height="422" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGAaRQ7W_RxkOMdIYHb8QSl5cV_gN19qpwBr4OTY5jYSrXuQNK7xNGmDTzRJKl531TxoQNU1wq_tWcX2lSDgiVTyTX9CfcUaSYO2gYM8qo-mDNl7O6atppeZqpWwrwsvsTZIE5bqERRtAFe2Cx8F7FHbst5ur4yGo9-xEab2tqwELqgrGk9cCulb9ysw/w640-h422/039%20P1500475.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Pop Pop takes a good firing position behind the container and draws a bead on one of the windows but can see that they are bared and have what looks like steel shutters behind the bars.</div><div><br /></div><div>I was wondering how I could resolve this, they can’t get in, but he can’t get out, but they can’t stay there for ever, but he can. It’s a bit of a conundrum.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbvAz80hR_AmoEiq3TbU_11IVLi5cUULPA_zv3zcJO4CQURcHdyqs1FY3qpJRYs6Dq8odBlZHrLpp9AYJlHeZIRfP1CJBtza-HZfNhJU-kk--w6Px8NHRkJ2A82Vx4S_ffJDT-vlEp59y1weRMMyj_Cy2CYnXKc7IP5P0VsFRCfjnWjD3sb3Neh6wy4Q/s700/040%20P1500477.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="474" data-original-width="700" height="434" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbvAz80hR_AmoEiq3TbU_11IVLi5cUULPA_zv3zcJO4CQURcHdyqs1FY3qpJRYs6Dq8odBlZHrLpp9AYJlHeZIRfP1CJBtza-HZfNhJU-kk--w6Px8NHRkJ2A82Vx4S_ffJDT-vlEp59y1weRMMyj_Cy2CYnXKc7IP5P0VsFRCfjnWjD3sb3Neh6wy4Q/w640-h434/040%20P1500477.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>As Snap and Crackle got close to the bar a solution presented itself. Snap blazed away at the windows and door to ensure no one came out and Crackle picked up the auto cannon and once she had figured out which was the safety and which was the trigger, she blew the door off its hinges.</div><div><br /></div><div>Crackle was first through, she saw Zaira and fired, but missed and run out of ammo, Snap and Zaira fired simultaneously, and both hit each other and take out their opponent. Thinking about all the paperwork if they take Zaira alive, Crackle draws her machete and finishes the job.</div><div><br /></div><div>Nothing moves in the compound. It’s very quiet, all except for a small motor as the last TRV tries to get into the compound but it can’t get through the gap in the wire. Eventually Crackle finds the deactivation switch in the bar and pulls the lever, there is now total silence.</div><div><br /></div><div>The Chinook arrived, it was too big to land but all the wounded including Agent White were winched up and they also recovered the bodies of Miss Purple and Miss Blue. Zaira is dead and they left no real evidence as to who had carried out the hit, a pretty perfect result…..unless your name was Purple or Blue.</div><div><br /></div><div>V’s report to Z was a little more succinct than my account here but essentially confirmed the same information.</div><div><br /></div><div>As you probably gathered there was a table of possible incidents to throw a spanner in the works. </div><div><br /></div><div>Well - Thanks for reading, if indeed you did do and I'd appreciate any thoughts you might have.</div><div><br /></div><div>Cheers</div><div>V</div>Vagabondhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14031648950206231742noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7655102169795953648.post-70649317421139853392023-04-23T21:15:00.001+01:002023-04-23T21:15:22.418+01:00Operation Window Maker - The Attack Plan<b>The Attack Plan</b><div><br /></div><div>First of all I’d like to thank everyone who offered suggestions as to the best way to carry out the attack, I took parts of everyone’s ideas apart from Nuking them, although that would have achieved the prime objective but not the secondary one of getting Agent White out of the compound. Well apart from as a shrivelled corpse that is.</div><div><br /></div><div>Information I didn’t provide in the initial briefing was that there were three Tracked Robots, TR’s patrolling the perimeter outside the compound and six, Foot Robots, FR’s inside. Two of these were at the north and south gates respectively and would remain in place. Two were on a random patrol inside the perimeter controlled by a random direction and distance dice. The final 2 were allocated for close protection of Zaira and moved with him. Johnny Mo was the Robot Controller and his control centre was inside the bar.</div><div><br /></div><div>I created an event table for the defenders, which worked well, although these things don’t always do so. I was going to have surveillance cameras in place but in the end I forgot about them until the game was well underway and it seemed wrong to introduce them then. Finally I’d intended to have an underground bunker system below the bar but I couldn’t be bothered to draw the plans for it. Yes I know that’s pretty slack.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgK1kC6Y2iw_W-nkAIqMhUXTlSWDDIDdZOBQOWcsqvZyu4oW2sMtag-x8KmNf1UCxhqgz4-7x3UbDlgQSL1n2XOZu0a7ifJuZPOBHQwuwK2k9PPnm4ZELI5C70K6CuUiAt2VphaiD5WAznycDt9QQIIIfM_av3xaosDZf1ZDQX-X7HAWQQZRiUFFVNlPA/s700/01%20P1500421.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="516" data-original-width="700" height="472" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgK1kC6Y2iw_W-nkAIqMhUXTlSWDDIDdZOBQOWcsqvZyu4oW2sMtag-x8KmNf1UCxhqgz4-7x3UbDlgQSL1n2XOZu0a7ifJuZPOBHQwuwK2k9PPnm4ZELI5C70K6CuUiAt2VphaiD5WAznycDt9QQIIIfM_av3xaosDZf1ZDQX-X7HAWQQZRiUFFVNlPA/w640-h472/01%20P1500421.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div><br /></div><div>This is the plan of attack that V submitted to Z and obtained his approval. The plan was submitted in writing but the approval was not. Could it be that Z didn’t want his name appended to such a risky plan…..unless it succeeded?</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Operation Window Cleaner.</b></div><div><br /></div><div>All elements of the attack team are to move to the jump off point 1Km south of the compound.</div><div><br /></div><div>From there, Sniper Team Breakfast are to take up a position slightly west of the south gate. They should have line of sight to the door of the bar. Popolopopski the sniper should be able to put a bullet into Zaira’s eye from that range, right or left – it doesn’t matter.</div><div><br /></div><div>Attack team Rainbow are to move to the east side of the compound and storm the compound once the first shot is fired. Alternatively this will happen if Snap the leader of the Sniper Team gives them the go ahead. They are lightly armed but I’ve allocated them an experimental machine pistol the MB 350, with explosive shells. These are strictly against the Geneva Conventions but what the Swiss didn’t know they won’t complain about. Especially as two of the largest Swiss Banks are big shareholders in the technology.</div><div><br /></div><div>I’ve assumed that with the lack of heat signature the Chinese have developed some form of Artificial Intelligence Robotics and it will need something a little more powerful than a 7.62mm bullet to put it out of action, hence the MB 350.</div><div><br /></div><div>I’ve recruited a specialist into the attack team. Danielle Street, from the Royal Marines. She’s an expert with explosives and armed with a LAW to take out the tracked robot we’ve seen. Her roll is to lay a diversionary explosive device to the west of the compound, by the red burnt out car, either in or outside the fence, and then another one to the north of the compound about 100m north. These will both be remotely detonated and after placing the charges she will move south and rendezvous with Breakfast so that her diversionary explosions will time with Pop Pop’s first strike.</div><div><br /></div><div>The attack elements will be at the jump off point by 08.00 hours on the 14th. I’m allowing a minimum of 1 hour to reach their respective attack points, but they should all be in place by 10.00 hours. At that point Pop Pop will target the bar door for 1 hour only, if Zaira hasn’t appeared by 11.00 Marine Street will set off the first diversionary charge followed 3 minutes later by the 2nd one and at 11.05 Rainbow will start their assault.</div><div><br /></div><div>If all goes well they will regroup at the original jump off point but I have a Chinook Helicopter on standby to extract the team if that is necessary.</div><div><br /></div><div>V</div>Vagabondhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14031648950206231742noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7655102169795953648.post-54051027802046585322023-04-20T18:03:00.003+01:002023-04-20T18:04:17.688+01:00Operation Code Name – Window Maker<div>Objective - The Assassination of Fecino Zaira and Extraction of Agent White.</div><div><br /></div><div>Sorry to call you out at this late hour but we have a problem, I just nodded. 02:35 on a Wednesday morning usually means there’s a problem and it usually comes across my desk if it’s a Latin American problem.</div><div><br /></div><div>“You briefed Mrs White” Z continued, I nodded again, thinking of the nice polite old lady I’d briefed about 3 weeks ago. Edna May White, she was posing as a cook and housekeeper, we’d managed to infiltrate her into Fecino Zaira’s compound.</div><div><br /></div><div>It’s a long story but then again they usually are.</div><div><br /></div><div>Zaira was one of the more unusual of the Cartel Bosses. He lived as a semi-recluse behind walls and wire in the jungle, 20 miles from the nearest road. The only way into the Compound was a 2 to 3 day hard trek through the jungle or by helicopter. There wasn’t a landing pad as such, the copter landed on the roof of one of the buildings in the Compound, stayed for a few minutes and then left.</div><div><br /></div><div>I’d only noticed the Compound by accident. It had been there for years but the satellite images had been scanned by computers, the thermal imaging specification was looking for concentrated activity, not 2 people and a child and so it had discounted the place, believing it was abandoned at best or had a couple of squatters at worse.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBLvWfTw6e-KGVItZhsNeDXawY9pLqrOP6Cr4P_FvVMPGxmjRYX7UmiPC3Pnl47v6MjxZWNBIFeI248fY_bhzE_nfoKrf1DRgwEvzkoPNjAlAjXp525cErIWLpcIyLIV5S_Y9lgeX5AifvC0KQ0PNFcDGvc7GBBzANz-g4UqcjDjwGxbupMsvetu9YIA/s700/01%20P1500421.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="516" data-original-width="700" height="472" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBLvWfTw6e-KGVItZhsNeDXawY9pLqrOP6Cr4P_FvVMPGxmjRYX7UmiPC3Pnl47v6MjxZWNBIFeI248fY_bhzE_nfoKrf1DRgwEvzkoPNjAlAjXp525cErIWLpcIyLIV5S_Y9lgeX5AifvC0KQ0PNFcDGvc7GBBzANz-g4UqcjDjwGxbupMsvetu9YIA/w640-h472/01%20P1500421.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>This is the latest satellite image of the compound.</div><div><br /></div><div>Zaira went missing eighteen months ago, there had been some blood letting with the other Cartels and we thought he’d been eliminated. The only strange thing was that Johnny Mo his prime bodyguard had disappeared at the same time, but what really set off alarm bells was that Monsignor Blanc had disappeared also. Blanc was Zaira’s Chef and it was unusual for a Chef to be eliminated, especially one as talented as Blanc. He would have been worth 10kg of H to any of the leading families because they all liked fine food.</div><div><br /></div><div>“Are you paying attention” Z barked. “Of course sir” I responded immediately but wondered what he’d been saying the past few minutes.</div><div><br /></div><div>“I arranged to drop a small drone from one of the American spy planes that operate over Columbia and have just received the pictures”. He held in his hand six 8 x 10 pictures of the compound, “that’s all we’re going to get, the drone pilot flew the damn thing into a tree and it crashed”. He proceeded to pass them over 1 at a time, he does like a little drama.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyGvzsk4QyUBMaRpU5Kt2M5TkLhX7vpc2pQiupmoiyf3i0OIza89wb0AqNpb-FEMImYNzPq8CKBYZNPPbDdcqLqrZg_Fnyy7h_uVCQheD7bWG2FGECOpwYgI1PoGyP6PJF0uT9PwQ2f8f7jyGgxCX93iaEE61U359KbQTP5Wfi0UhiQJgGeCE593d0_w/s700/02%20P1500397.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="525" data-original-width="700" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyGvzsk4QyUBMaRpU5Kt2M5TkLhX7vpc2pQiupmoiyf3i0OIza89wb0AqNpb-FEMImYNzPq8CKBYZNPPbDdcqLqrZg_Fnyy7h_uVCQheD7bWG2FGECOpwYgI1PoGyP6PJF0uT9PwQ2f8f7jyGgxCX93iaEE61U359KbQTP5Wfi0UhiQJgGeCE593d0_w/w640-h480/02%20P1500397.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>“That is a low altitude picture”, he said, I noted the sarcasm in his voice but saw the helicopter again. That’s what had tipped me off in the first place, everything else in the compound looked old and disused but on one of the original satellite images a red helicopter was shown in the same place as it stood now.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgztuoEkrJFRn1qhyZBln999g2zn20bUGEpAnK_3pn6_k4SdZJy8dakmTN-1aWThsnuqK7d1uS1_I8QOsMqk5XviavMFWIHi7VB3Te09x5npBfpS_rrF9_y26vSQdD2MXgAReLsuFBxCC8fIEy_54Qs4ZeUl0fjl4rVNc2e-oMKBg-NqKp3tZ7Q9HbDcA/s700/03%20P1500401.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="525" data-original-width="700" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgztuoEkrJFRn1qhyZBln999g2zn20bUGEpAnK_3pn6_k4SdZJy8dakmTN-1aWThsnuqK7d1uS1_I8QOsMqk5XviavMFWIHi7VB3Te09x5npBfpS_rrF9_y26vSQdD2MXgAReLsuFBxCC8fIEy_54Qs4ZeUl0fjl4rVNc2e-oMKBg-NqKp3tZ7Q9HbDcA/w640-h480/03%20P1500401.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>“The drone got some good clean shots before it crashed” he continued. I let out a low whistle, partly because I recognised Erika Klaus the pilot but also in admiration at the willowy frames of the two young women with her.</div><div><br /></div><div>I knew that Zaira had a propensity for tall slim women. This was as good as intel would get I thought, until I examined the next picture.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSsdjSyISKx-cUMTVfRAHjUq4HWLl7nK3jsC9cELLIJkjSCvn-8pog0hG9N14hVluK3OKqzAPtmeI4xsrIV1aDZ_xhwgbmglJdT1NPdxwLwgVy8JM--td_Jc3zkWwh1oyVqqhK1De-huzwAQgqfBL7xUNwZZhCuic-NsnpeCgrD-MzutwMaQyfZIBDSA/s700/04%20P1500403.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="395" data-original-width="700" height="362" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSsdjSyISKx-cUMTVfRAHjUq4HWLl7nK3jsC9cELLIJkjSCvn-8pog0hG9N14hVluK3OKqzAPtmeI4xsrIV1aDZ_xhwgbmglJdT1NPdxwLwgVy8JM--td_Jc3zkWwh1oyVqqhK1De-huzwAQgqfBL7xUNwZZhCuic-NsnpeCgrD-MzutwMaQyfZIBDSA/w640-h362/04%20P1500403.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Fecino Zaira the king pin himself, along with bodyguard Johnny Mo and to my great relief, Agent White. The very Edna May White I’d managed to insert into Zaira’s household once I’d found out he needed a new Chef.</div><div><br /></div><div>Monsignor Blanc had contracted some tropical disease and had surfaced in a private hospital in Bogotá, that piece of information had enabled me to push forward with my plan. I thought it was a cute idea to name my Agent White and so did Marcello, third in line to Zaira himself.</div><div><br /></div><div>Marcello wanted to be head of the Norte del Valle Cartel himself and with Zaira gone he was one step closer to that goal. I’d been cultivating him for quiet a long time and it was starting to pay off.</div><div><br /></div><div>“There’s a couple of snags” Z continued as he passed the next photo over.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEislrfB8e8i9ZhaPV9W0KYd3lyuYoOc-lvUOOJO3Q0msLc2xiUhjiYMWOgfALLRAQNMKNzCX2Q5dCZPXny9Q8eSalDCSmyu_5Ju7ykdxYDBa9ejusXxuzu4mKRdnU0crQ7N65mB1QdfQ0gBARiEMMBtALq_QlHaLfuhpNa0C2G4xrRgZkqI_X60OtgvUw/s700/05%20P1500405.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="451" data-original-width="700" height="412" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEislrfB8e8i9ZhaPV9W0KYd3lyuYoOc-lvUOOJO3Q0msLc2xiUhjiYMWOgfALLRAQNMKNzCX2Q5dCZPXny9Q8eSalDCSmyu_5Ju7ykdxYDBa9ejusXxuzu4mKRdnU0crQ7N65mB1QdfQ0gBARiEMMBtALq_QlHaLfuhpNa0C2G4xrRgZkqI_X60OtgvUw/w640-h412/05%20P1500405.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>I could see what he meant. “Do we have any info on this machine” I asked hopefully. “Not a bean” was his reply. “There are rumours from China South West Station that the Chinese are well advanced in their mechanical and robotic experimental weapons program’s. This might be another attempt at increasing their influence in South America through the drugs trade. That’s not all though”.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2ZjlocH7Yq8SK4pqD41aW6suSLhmPjrbWXlBZ8e5Pw064j5HDJNmTy-m3z9n34vy9MOpYQZ1ehMfElTNTtvcOuInppmsXOfWCtQwXmay-nobcDmN0wyBplJJO2vAsg-tiwgTWO9_ONw0V4vD8hziUQjJZBxhXOWT_5FrrjbpETZuj-geNyDkoIXNQBg/s700/06%20P1500411.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="479" data-original-width="700" height="438" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2ZjlocH7Yq8SK4pqD41aW6suSLhmPjrbWXlBZ8e5Pw064j5HDJNmTy-m3z9n34vy9MOpYQZ1ehMfElTNTtvcOuInppmsXOfWCtQwXmay-nobcDmN0wyBplJJO2vAsg-tiwgTWO9_ONw0V4vD8hziUQjJZBxhXOWT_5FrrjbpETZuj-geNyDkoIXNQBg/w640-h438/06%20P1500411.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Looking closely I was sure I recognised the small size of Zaira but what was behind him, and why hadn’t they shown up on the thermal imaging scans. They looked like a pair of armed guards in some sort of tactical armour. Z shrugged, “We’ll have nothing from the satellite for 3 days and can’t confirm the thermal record”.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhz5fiKgm8VcB_KKXILpgsrs0OwiRrF4JU2il8VE5LuXF3TcmhLqmh8m8wcm7lwqxzCFRqSYaEeNLztSo0F4QhEG-m8mpz7ZUYY-dO7qjcjqudtXBhwAfbZKpRqDFwbV8dN3lpklj4wm18MG9eJzu6ZstzjSTEG59q0hdk9VV_9q1zPtV5Wd-bY_XePrw/s700/07%20P1500418.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="437" data-original-width="700" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhz5fiKgm8VcB_KKXILpgsrs0OwiRrF4JU2il8VE5LuXF3TcmhLqmh8m8wcm7lwqxzCFRqSYaEeNLztSo0F4QhEG-m8mpz7ZUYY-dO7qjcjqudtXBhwAfbZKpRqDFwbV8dN3lpklj4wm18MG9eJzu6ZstzjSTEG59q0hdk9VV_9q1zPtV5Wd-bY_XePrw/w640-h400/07%20P1500418.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>“This last one was taken shortly before the drone crashed. It looks as if it caught the attention of whoever that is but we don’t know for sure”.</div><div><br /></div><div>“I’ve already scrambled Sniper team ‘Breakfast’ and they’re taking off in a couple of minutes, they’ll be under your direct command.”</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTkgiZLSu1YcKgYGN-cQYGym8Hh_myT7ymWoKV4EWkWXnzUSzhhGT9Nr4dIbKwwo9HaNPMEH_-XXvfAXBzicjOfaHAUTGR0h6xuNYwUlUe34z0thweELmIK6nflBgQ5Y49j60IpFQtRjImMITnXLbwQahljzqNrcIv9RrSVBdL8xu6TJFGSJ6VdimQbA/s700/08%20P1500417.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="412" data-original-width="700" height="376" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTkgiZLSu1YcKgYGN-cQYGym8Hh_myT7ymWoKV4EWkWXnzUSzhhGT9Nr4dIbKwwo9HaNPMEH_-XXvfAXBzicjOfaHAUTGR0h6xuNYwUlUe34z0thweELmIK6nflBgQ5Y49j60IpFQtRjImMITnXLbwQahljzqNrcIv9RrSVBdL8xu6TJFGSJ6VdimQbA/w640-h376/08%20P1500417.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Finally he was giving me some good news; Breakfast was the best team we had. On a very good day Pop Pop could hit a man sized target at around 2,200m, at 1,500m she was 98%.</div><div><br /></div><div>Then I thought of the jungle, she’d be lucky to get a line of sight of 100m and it would probably be much less. Getting into that position would require all the training and skill of the three woman team, getting out again from that close in would be even more difficult if not impossible. That’s where the other 2 members of the team would earn their corn.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXIyqagfrDfVwBgkjWGjP5ufgKbVF7Fpj8uUFXdAZfMyr_xvxfwaTwK-t8oSU0pp4Pf8coiiR7KC_Bkox6s7051L9hPCsDOAJiHx-26d1XzIa_CPpXuhx8dgTTVQPF3yBXb0JdlArKtCycD44eg7TCvm-b9Y0-QduwMpgEGbLAFRUCjsmTR5ya5PEZTw/s700/09%20P1500415.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="368" data-original-width="700" height="336" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXIyqagfrDfVwBgkjWGjP5ufgKbVF7Fpj8uUFXdAZfMyr_xvxfwaTwK-t8oSU0pp4Pf8coiiR7KC_Bkox6s7051L9hPCsDOAJiHx-26d1XzIa_CPpXuhx8dgTTVQPF3yBXb0JdlArKtCycD44eg7TCvm-b9Y0-QduwMpgEGbLAFRUCjsmTR5ya5PEZTw/w640-h336/09%20P1500415.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>“Do I still have Assault team Rainbow” I asked. “Of course” was his laconic reply, “they’re already in country and ready to go”. “There’s one final thing though”. My heart sank. “We received a radio message from our black-site listening station in the Azores. They picked up the following coded message which we are fairly sure is from the compound. Our super-computer has so far, failed to crack the cipher”.</div><div><br /></div><div>The red swallow flies upside down over Moscow. As a consequence, Execute operation widow-maker. The truss of my second cousin is in the hand-bag of my grandmother’s chamber-maid.</div><div><br /></div><div>“I believe this might be an old WWll code, they used to put the message in the 2nd sentence, the rest is just gobblegook, the reference to "Execute operation Widow Maker" may well be to confirm we should hit Zaira now (one of his many nicknames is Widow Maker”). “I’ve sent Miss Twopence Moneypenny down to the basement to check in the old code books, if Agent White was under pressure this might have been the best she could do.”</div><div><br /></div><div>At that moment E=mc2 came into the room. “I think we might be on the wrong track with the code. According to my information (still kept on a Rolodex and none the worse for that), Zaira’s nickname is Window Maker because of his uncanny ability to see through any plan to capture him. Did we get the code in morse or oral transmission” he asked. “Morse” responded Z “but what difference does one dash and dot make”? E=mc2 looked at him in disbelief. “There’s a world of difference, one is a kill instruction from our Agent and the other is a trap, he’s seen through our plan and is laughing at us”.</div><div><br /></div><div>Z looked slightly put out by this latest information and issued his instructions sourly. “We have photographic evidence that he’s there, V you’re head of South American operations, I want your assessment and a plan of attack on my desk before Breakfast arrive in Columbia as 09:00 hours tomorrow”.</div><div><br /></div><div>“Yes Sir”</div><div><br /></div><div>Ok that’s my opening brief and I’m going to play the game solo. I’ve set up the table as the original photo and distributed any impediments in and around the compound. What I’d really appreciate is a plan of attack from anyone who feels they can contribute.</div><div><br /></div><div>There is very little known about the compound, there will probably be booby traps, security camera’s, bunkers under the living accommodation, clandestine escape routes, you name it.</div><div><br /></div><div>The living accommodation might be the Bar, the rest of the buildings look like they are storage facilities but may not be. The bar by the way is the building with the Red Lions outside.</div><div><br /></div><div>There’s obviously some form of guards/sentries but don’t forget, nothing significant showed up on thermal imaging when checking against human signatures, so this might just be a red herring. You don’t know how many guards etc there are, nor how effective they may be. Final point is that the helicopter hasn’t stayed long when it’s landed in the past and so you would expect this to have gone when you arrive.</div><div><br /></div><div>The objective of the mission is to kill Zaira, this is the prime objective. The secondary objective is to extract Agent White, you have no communication channel open to her.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>How would you go about it.</b></div><div><br /></div><div>Any thoughts and comments will be gratefully considered and the respondent's name will go into the prize draw. Unfortunately there is no prize but your name will be recorded in shining lights on the Blog.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>If I can work out how to do that!</div><div>Cheers</div>Vagabondhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14031648950206231742noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7655102169795953648.post-75154301368596565982023-04-12T19:27:00.002+01:002023-04-12T19:27:20.615+01:00En Guarde you Villain'sEn Guarde you Villain’s<div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjH1BlO-RsgQ_SlpI3nC6N579wiTEMx1XhVx1Jd9cdpQw0oXImqJmRU0kdbEG90_NknJlzobkhjgej0B1JRXo78w5iHNx3EX5-JDivkjQgGAjthA6kxoA8CGoqApQ2CKovOyqIcJQpZkSON0fiOqX3tVllUwSRZ81sBPrNXG_W-8KiJ9zoUUhBI6d_WfA/s700/001%20P1500339.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="416" data-original-width="700" height="380" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjH1BlO-RsgQ_SlpI3nC6N579wiTEMx1XhVx1Jd9cdpQw0oXImqJmRU0kdbEG90_NknJlzobkhjgej0B1JRXo78w5iHNx3EX5-JDivkjQgGAjthA6kxoA8CGoqApQ2CKovOyqIcJQpZkSON0fiOqX3tVllUwSRZ81sBPrNXG_W-8KiJ9zoUUhBI6d_WfA/w640-h380/001%20P1500339.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>It was a fine Spring day in one of the Piddling villages, the sun was high in the sky and the pheasants were making the sort of soft clucking sound as they thought of the mating season to come, followed by the long lazy days of summer, then of course there was the 12th of August but the pheasants didn’t allow the future to impinge on the present too much.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGHLcznh0Dbsw539VNc1ZE6r8RVF4CWOcKq2RXP_JvVocJGwVQC1JV4lCBBS9Zej4uJU5chswayPIMs7r6inPhddFeEmYAyBpS6rphfaWzrtDEjpEoFJ--dSw8oz_-vjqrprsJuyeoKK2HdFU8MmeKuZUdYt1DJmGi1LM-nMKDArnnZU8GBaDOVoDkTw/s700/002%20P1500338.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="403" data-original-width="700" height="368" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGHLcznh0Dbsw539VNc1ZE6r8RVF4CWOcKq2RXP_JvVocJGwVQC1JV4lCBBS9Zej4uJU5chswayPIMs7r6inPhddFeEmYAyBpS6rphfaWzrtDEjpEoFJ--dSw8oz_-vjqrprsJuyeoKK2HdFU8MmeKuZUdYt1DJmGi1LM-nMKDArnnZU8GBaDOVoDkTw/w640-h368/002%20P1500338.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Unlike Squire Samuel Benbow Snapcase, a lesser known scion of the famous Snapcase family, The Lords Snapcase were held in some high regard among the Piddling’s; Lesser Piddling, Greater Piddling and Much Piddling in the Marsh.</div><div><br /></div><div>Squire Samuel was waiting impatiently for the Revenue Men. Yes - I know you might be thinking that they were the last people he would want to see, what with the honey distillery he was running in one of the Outhouses close to the Big House, but of course you’d be wrong.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwg9xD2Ias9rpOezr7cbDZpE155Y_rzsttuLBOYXRGQDToTrSbJTbfIMpX3wn0sLMIXe6fDKk21hzdzvCwjzgOtXOSjAHkDHvOe0whnsYigi0D0-x94h6IFj9DgKdw755qxq73tGYpfbS8WVXaNnJvdz-af4FBdnviRj2BqCatDWUJbiqNBW8OsXzDUw/s700/003a%20P1500336.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="527" data-original-width="700" height="482" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwg9xD2Ias9rpOezr7cbDZpE155Y_rzsttuLBOYXRGQDToTrSbJTbfIMpX3wn0sLMIXe6fDKk21hzdzvCwjzgOtXOSjAHkDHvOe0whnsYigi0D0-x94h6IFj9DgKdw755qxq73tGYpfbS8WVXaNnJvdz-af4FBdnviRj2BqCatDWUJbiqNBW8OsXzDUw/w640-h482/003a%20P1500336.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;">He had a long standing, understanding, is I think the correct term and the understanding was with Captain ‘Old’ Bill Avery of His Majesties Revenue Service. Cptn Avery liked to confiscate contraband in the name of the King, as much and as often as he could. His only issue with this situation was that he didn’t believe the King needed to receive all of the confiscated goods. There was some leeway for an enterprising man to spread the bounty around to local deserving causes before the balance of the contraband was secured in His Majesties Government’s bonded warehouses.</span></div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFRBLbsrY7bSEXqauwJyqiPskki4udi0pMl6aS78v7QERF-xCpiiTeF8pAxnIypHNaevOBYERDah8S_cBkQfPN_x_AOQMhi5F89XUflqK6GrglahX4Dipx60pKLius4IGKLALZlWJ361LF710md1AQtv8g3cfu91f2zDCzi8Z2Fo2PJX1hvcfL_4Y3aQ/s700/004%20P1500340.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="485" data-original-width="700" height="444" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFRBLbsrY7bSEXqauwJyqiPskki4udi0pMl6aS78v7QERF-xCpiiTeF8pAxnIypHNaevOBYERDah8S_cBkQfPN_x_AOQMhi5F89XUflqK6GrglahX4Dipx60pKLius4IGKLALZlWJ361LF710md1AQtv8g3cfu91f2zDCzi8Z2Fo2PJX1hvcfL_4Y3aQ/w640-h444/004%20P1500340.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Squire Samuel and Cptn Avery both regarded themselves as deserving local causes and so to that end a motley crew of Revenue men were protecting a small shipment of high value contraband as they trudged slowly along the green lane to the Squires house.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEqhJnMAMgCu09LDt-FHR80ygBjmDQ__57OEsJXUmWr0lkKmyXjB_70r83WxWzjGYynqJxSPYzncN_ECUjMCTKhZ7ok2BnvWhBQR_Fg6Lo68EqoOLpOgNxmZkwBP0btvw2rENdrAOW60kGxR2AdFllrCcDZuy0bbqNPCl-gf4ZUAo00ZNiooOkHaEyAQ/s700/005%20P1500342.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="495" data-original-width="700" height="452" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEqhJnMAMgCu09LDt-FHR80ygBjmDQ__57OEsJXUmWr0lkKmyXjB_70r83WxWzjGYynqJxSPYzncN_ECUjMCTKhZ7ok2BnvWhBQR_Fg6Lo68EqoOLpOgNxmZkwBP0btvw2rENdrAOW60kGxR2AdFllrCcDZuy0bbqNPCl-gf4ZUAo00ZNiooOkHaEyAQ/w640-h452/005%20P1500342.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Captain Avery liked to lead his men from the front and he was ably assisted by Mad John Leadstone, they chatted amicably as they made their along the track, their pace was slowed by the pack ponies but even more so by the two men in front of the ponies. Scudder and Fishbait had served in the Royal Navy for many years but had both been severely wounded and each lost a leg in the service of their country. They wryly joked that between them they had the best pair of legs in the Piddlings and they could spread them further than anyone else.</div><div><br /></div><div>Well - except of course for the Widow Hackett but she had extenuating circumstances that we don’t need to go into here.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidI4DT_hZm6ghQ6WU-gWoDUIqv0DdMAxLW7Ccr0Y5Ycn5Hn34bjosVKvg7jx1pBW8dX84FIUaciAm-hebym5Zh5EyTBWXSx7UGHB25hUej1KmkFBOBTyKA6FjP64esEJy43rYD-ZxqVK-EaQVoHab2ogEq3t7wx3OwE1-1sFOEVrWHda5BOT97SK0Ehg/s700/006%20P1500343.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="525" data-original-width="700" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidI4DT_hZm6ghQ6WU-gWoDUIqv0DdMAxLW7Ccr0Y5Ycn5Hn34bjosVKvg7jx1pBW8dX84FIUaciAm-hebym5Zh5EyTBWXSx7UGHB25hUej1KmkFBOBTyKA6FjP64esEJy43rYD-ZxqVK-EaQVoHab2ogEq3t7wx3OwE1-1sFOEVrWHda5BOT97SK0Ehg/w640-h480/006%20P1500343.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Avery and Leadstone had opened a gap between themselves and the rest of the crew and this was to be their undoing. A swarthy gnome of a woman rose quietly from behind the hedge and aimed her musket at the back of Cptn Avery’s noble head and with a grunt in Spanish she pulled the trigger.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYRoLZWgCkG4lQAwIh9Ayb5Eu6kZv37B5DLFFoVU5oT7c45-xjUiY-DSg6ndF964e9rhb2uEnHtkzt0tkpe40q3E7GUquAaXypVJTLTU27NG-BMwbYCphVmIhQPvp-PgthGwPy3WSWklIS0sqy6kW1sWg3gFOVaarB7pS0iL73eJxzPOGUP8b51Zb0jw/s700/007%20P1500344.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="389" data-original-width="700" height="356" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYRoLZWgCkG4lQAwIh9Ayb5Eu6kZv37B5DLFFoVU5oT7c45-xjUiY-DSg6ndF964e9rhb2uEnHtkzt0tkpe40q3E7GUquAaXypVJTLTU27NG-BMwbYCphVmIhQPvp-PgthGwPy3WSWklIS0sqy6kW1sWg3gFOVaarB7pS0iL73eJxzPOGUP8b51Zb0jw/w640-h356/007%20P1500344.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Our gallant Captain might have mistaken the ill looking woman for one of the beasts in the field but that was his last mistake, as her bullet went through the back of his skull and out the front. Leadstone looked down in horror as his commanding officer fell to the ground. Although it probably went through his mind that there would be no open casket for Avery he responded to the attack immediately.</div><div><br /></div><div>“Ambush” he roared in a voice that could have been heard in the Main Tops when he was a young Lieutenant in the Royal Navy and even now his men responded as a well trained team will……..They dithered a little, dallied even more and then ran around like headless chickens.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfX_eUklu1_3SwBqUPVUf4k-PbGVoHs0nzXaODM6tCVXm9WmLNQvERQp5ETVzzTJlS1X2-t5b3RJCdQHhDVuKetQRkzV8uShbdISs5givR-UCBZHfuCf1g4IuEQApCFgHQcts0A0FVkNc1KCr7l74GK3FV5O1X7TtkgTIvRFbS3bgKbG2LV4-BAzhHPA/s700/008%20P1500346.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="525" data-original-width="700" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfX_eUklu1_3SwBqUPVUf4k-PbGVoHs0nzXaODM6tCVXm9WmLNQvERQp5ETVzzTJlS1X2-t5b3RJCdQHhDVuKetQRkzV8uShbdISs5givR-UCBZHfuCf1g4IuEQApCFgHQcts0A0FVkNc1KCr7l74GK3FV5O1X7TtkgTIvRFbS3bgKbG2LV4-BAzhHPA/w640-h480/008%20P1500346.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Scudder pushed through the hedge and screaming like a banshee, he advanced on the ill looking Spanish woman.</div><div><br /></div><div>Seconds later another woman rose from the near side of the hedge, she was dressed in a tight fitting green uniform and armed with a Baker Rifle. Quick as lightening she aimed and fired on Mad John Leadstone, blood trickled from the wound but he remained on his feet. Swaying a little from the pain he bellowed to Fishbait “Get her” In spite of his wooden crutch Fishbait lunged through the hedge bordering the track and drawing his cutlass he closed with the cowardly assassin who recoiled in horror as the brave man advanced.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2WU8Vk1ZV7LDfR96JUqgDVQLZ_yU1YqwvCuyZgWqzPiCLJO_8Ztr-dC3OoIjBRXsQqLEGyWILxmP_fh-i1-vw0bRFy3FnQXVNDJisDJmdBrzEc7_XgsD1nIa48__Nik_5sXZ7F7n9_EOcObgtuBHXO4xs_z5WdMkxAJYZ8DhDD4BPfsOdLBS1qzrj1Q/s700/009%20P1500347.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="463" data-original-width="700" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2WU8Vk1ZV7LDfR96JUqgDVQLZ_yU1YqwvCuyZgWqzPiCLJO_8Ztr-dC3OoIjBRXsQqLEGyWILxmP_fh-i1-vw0bRFy3FnQXVNDJisDJmdBrzEc7_XgsD1nIa48__Nik_5sXZ7F7n9_EOcObgtuBHXO4xs_z5WdMkxAJYZ8DhDD4BPfsOdLBS1qzrj1Q/w640-h424/009%20P1500347.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>The unarmed mule skinner was heard to mutter “The Saints preserve us” as another of the ill looking bunch poked her wicked head over the wall next to him. This was the leader of the dastardly band, a low outcast from society, Mary Shelly with an itchy belly. She was known in the drinking dens of the marches as a poet and writer of sorts, an underserved reputation, unlike the one she had for treachery and low cunning which was well deserved.</div><div><br /></div><div>She might have been one of the most unsavoury characters to wave a red and white plume on a shako but she was a crack shot and the innocent mule skinner died instantly.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsLCKHdgjd65errDIRKV0Of3_9fbNcmpfCNV-B88bW5PJAPY_UPqB-hyivgGr-4s77kByVVaeHcq5YCPU6-zs-t_kBUq5G45fAU6VQA5efK94LW6Pi5sdVSYShYZa5_a-nwnPdfwz3oTCrTFspRAcUVeW8qdTu87PbtDKln-ANqJXft0h30D5lCQt_aw/s700/010%20P1500349.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="457" data-original-width="700" height="418" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsLCKHdgjd65errDIRKV0Of3_9fbNcmpfCNV-B88bW5PJAPY_UPqB-hyivgGr-4s77kByVVaeHcq5YCPU6-zs-t_kBUq5G45fAU6VQA5efK94LW6Pi5sdVSYShYZa5_a-nwnPdfwz3oTCrTFspRAcUVeW8qdTu87PbtDKln-ANqJXft0h30D5lCQt_aw/w640-h418/010%20P1500349.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>It would be no comfort to him to know that Comfort Weeks strolled calmly to the wall and realising that the rules seemed to favour shooting more than was expected put a bullet between the squinty eyes of Shelly with the itchy belly and the leader of the cowardly desperadoes died as quickly as her previous innocent victim.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFVYr1PHnYzU0-uECs8gBOAhuyVrsf9JeHfUS9YQoJ85fcdFiA1QqQVHV3Qo0Gioj7Smf-w9tgRxcBBPdHBvythWXGjjNblF0_MR4252RKjwMHvZ0QvnTL96LoeGJ2rHe_I7MvOgd8Qd038hmfzzgxn-_i8gV2juXxmjT5uB8zBD7Zj655cbHsu_jliA/s700/011%20P1500352.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="438" data-original-width="700" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFVYr1PHnYzU0-uECs8gBOAhuyVrsf9JeHfUS9YQoJ85fcdFiA1QqQVHV3Qo0Gioj7Smf-w9tgRxcBBPdHBvythWXGjjNblF0_MR4252RKjwMHvZ0QvnTL96LoeGJ2rHe_I7MvOgd8Qd038hmfzzgxn-_i8gV2juXxmjT5uB8zBD7Zj655cbHsu_jliA/w640-h400/011%20P1500352.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Comfort Weeks also took no comfort from the fact that like a demented Jack in a box, another of the villainous crew popped up and shot her without warning. There was some mutinous muttering that the villain had a book in one hand and a sword in the other, how then was she able to shoot, this was quickly quashed by the chap who was reading the rules.</div><div><br /></div><div>As you see here Tempest Abercrombie exacted swift revenge for the unlawful killing of poor Comfort by putting a bullet into the scurrilous hound and you can see her blood staining the ground. (The red cube means she’s wounded, but you probably guessed that.) Unfortunately she didn’t die like the dog she was. (Note the tense).</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo2_VbyV4ep-H822zQBlQvq6u6VoK4CBTtrfTXsPWDxfrd4KN3-ChqbvVx-79MI7SA5UoT3wi8ZLp4bjNoMRcgUJGAFjtsSwnnxbGRTAl12XIyd2rhMjh6Fj1ZeBZUq0ldh2xHodeDQ7Sf0uQJQuxus8UmQbwhCNuWHcnGx6Vgf2rIX1i7XNJq4Vrz_Q/s700/012%20P1500354.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="525" data-original-width="700" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo2_VbyV4ep-H822zQBlQvq6u6VoK4CBTtrfTXsPWDxfrd4KN3-ChqbvVx-79MI7SA5UoT3wi8ZLp4bjNoMRcgUJGAFjtsSwnnxbGRTAl12XIyd2rhMjh6Fj1ZeBZUq0ldh2xHodeDQ7Sf0uQJQuxus8UmQbwhCNuWHcnGx6Vgf2rIX1i7XNJq4Vrz_Q/w640-h480/012%20P1500354.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Brave and noble Edouard d’Orsay drew his cutlass and advanced on the evil wretch. Brandishing his weapon he invited her to take a turn or two around the dead body of her leader, she blanched and stuttered a reply that was lost in the wind.</div><div><br /></div><div>(Note the book and sword - clearly no pistol).</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-KEX4FMlGo_skTWHyAKb9cIa7byAMeZsM-0Vvp2CZg6x4bxWRtsN2ETpeQizUzhhFjB3sqAmCrQlVk6omB1xb9870DBee0Q7eSB9B1YKIaxVNVkUlIdyHOKuiE18DrZzJKUm3AWHR8aqNdqn048YLQWTnVqPJhTYVssipGmiY-TfkXhSHUmBY52SJPA/s700/013%20P1500353.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="494" data-original-width="700" height="452" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-KEX4FMlGo_skTWHyAKb9cIa7byAMeZsM-0Vvp2CZg6x4bxWRtsN2ETpeQizUzhhFjB3sqAmCrQlVk6omB1xb9870DBee0Q7eSB9B1YKIaxVNVkUlIdyHOKuiE18DrZzJKUm3AWHR8aqNdqn048YLQWTnVqPJhTYVssipGmiY-TfkXhSHUmBY52SJPA/w640-h452/013%20P1500353.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Another of the evil crew steps out from hiding and plugs the already wounded John Leadstone. No mercy is obviously their battle cry. Muffled a little from behind their hiding places.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpKDw2I05Jplm5tfYnLZhn2qkQ5T6dIbPVWFOigt70f42C1yjqIlumOYENG-2ecEBQm6eCDj85ockbhlbPT5Pt1zanKX64lnsE7sdoIjLsCQIvMqeHlDl4bdE13fZqG4F_LMalNg4JYSwK95AzsGrVx31lwEJop09m5LbqoKmhQrlqhb79jr_1EX6WdQ/s700/014%20P1500355.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="400" data-original-width="700" height="366" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpKDw2I05Jplm5tfYnLZhn2qkQ5T6dIbPVWFOigt70f42C1yjqIlumOYENG-2ecEBQm6eCDj85ockbhlbPT5Pt1zanKX64lnsE7sdoIjLsCQIvMqeHlDl4bdE13fZqG4F_LMalNg4JYSwK95AzsGrVx31lwEJop09m5LbqoKmhQrlqhb79jr_1EX6WdQ/w640-h366/014%20P1500355.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Edouard attacked his wicked enemy and struck a mighty blow, she parried in vain because her cheap nine penny sword was smashed asunder and his blade made of the finest Sheffield steel clove her to the bone. She died a whimpering death.</div><div><br /></div><div>Things are looking quite sticky for our intrepid hero’s, but they’re a plucky bunch and will fight on in spite of the loss of their courageous leader and valiant second in command.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjG4qAkdJBmXEzB74qsOdMukNinJ8wk4jOQsjSVvHbjSgjVP-XFYciW-QD-GAofAIrEpz1VdCxQIrBFVrdqno4a1PAOWL2pipW0rmb_WqDQxf8Eoy_s7lBPAFlPQ-tScELFzBWJToB-DhRXy55WnGIlCzesgA5z1dslIO9zyalbpughDs6LzaWyol_odg/s700/015%20P1500356.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="467" data-original-width="700" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjG4qAkdJBmXEzB74qsOdMukNinJ8wk4jOQsjSVvHbjSgjVP-XFYciW-QD-GAofAIrEpz1VdCxQIrBFVrdqno4a1PAOWL2pipW0rmb_WqDQxf8Eoy_s7lBPAFlPQ-tScELFzBWJToB-DhRXy55WnGIlCzesgA5z1dslIO9zyalbpughDs6LzaWyol_odg/w640-h426/015%20P1500356.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Typically the enemy resort to underhand tactics, two against one. Fishbait is a fine old gentleman with one leg and he had an exhausting night the previous night, battling monsters in an underground cavern system, a tale that may never be told now, but these wicked scoundrels have no honour and show no mercy, they attack him viciously.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYq-q2XBLCObQ7BJPqXrY-nAy8yJqY93W3AuJliSCLqSKiq2F7b_gnXHojyjQ1LKZj72uIdhqTeh2F8_mG9hAG0Gv-G24SXOU5BivWQJeToJ3NifVsQkwfdFtcxGEG6T9In-MfUdmnArYYaqOLGB36qFoKe1eUwXfx5O5ozwH0QYm_IoMU2S-CcvnOdA/s700/016%20P1500360.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="452" data-original-width="700" height="414" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYq-q2XBLCObQ7BJPqXrY-nAy8yJqY93W3AuJliSCLqSKiq2F7b_gnXHojyjQ1LKZj72uIdhqTeh2F8_mG9hAG0Gv-G24SXOU5BivWQJeToJ3NifVsQkwfdFtcxGEG6T9In-MfUdmnArYYaqOLGB36qFoKe1eUwXfx5O5ozwH0QYm_IoMU2S-CcvnOdA/w640-h414/016%20P1500360.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>They butcher the poor old, one legged gentleman without remorse, as Modesty Higginbottom looks on in horror at the unspeakable events happening in front of her. She points her pistol and fires, there is the satisfaction of seeing one of the ignoble fiends’s hit and blood spurts from the wound. Of course you can’t get blood from a stone and so this dries up quickly.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqtooXUMyJJOzYbYL8RJV6YJ1cDTrXJCcKW0WTBXrz-Oq-RWHg0HtrPXwvYyScuoh9NRf1PBd1GDvvyNtMqTGlh95rI3t4xpn3WRWhbsaEoinpkIy_f0b0Q-Qx3tJB1K8uB3VSz6vOZTkdAaeXLW20EdpwsC1W1adULMJ1TFhbYOvWyRnVbySek-0TRg/s700/017%20P1500358.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="407" data-original-width="700" height="372" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqtooXUMyJJOzYbYL8RJV6YJ1cDTrXJCcKW0WTBXrz-Oq-RWHg0HtrPXwvYyScuoh9NRf1PBd1GDvvyNtMqTGlh95rI3t4xpn3WRWhbsaEoinpkIy_f0b0Q-Qx3tJB1K8uB3VSz6vOZTkdAaeXLW20EdpwsC1W1adULMJ1TFhbYOvWyRnVbySek-0TRg/w640-h372/017%20P1500358.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>The other old veteran, Scudder is slain by the callous Spanish witch and he dies a painful death, his passing is not an easy one as she leans over him, muttering in Spanish. She asks where he keeps his valuables but the scent of her garlic laden breath takes him aback and he can not respond.</div><div><br /></div><div>That and the fact that he can’t speak Spanish so doesn’t have a clue what she is asking.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7gX_jI3IA_85pO0BeXPS46u38_cf5BrzHpM-HNiju9xJjurrH6fhligrItLR16R3Mjx0Xli-BhUKZidBWF3xuyEWsvj6be_srWQX2kkborDf8HL7VQE-uovdvUIHBbKulUWHQV2R7u8wceJY6IaEcUOlcwdkPgh2NfWxEhDzpm7LIUrOZGfVazEXPBw/s700/018%20P1500359.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="443" data-original-width="700" height="406" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7gX_jI3IA_85pO0BeXPS46u38_cf5BrzHpM-HNiju9xJjurrH6fhligrItLR16R3Mjx0Xli-BhUKZidBWF3xuyEWsvj6be_srWQX2kkborDf8HL7VQE-uovdvUIHBbKulUWHQV2R7u8wceJY6IaEcUOlcwdkPgh2NfWxEhDzpm7LIUrOZGfVazEXPBw/w640-h406/018%20P1500359.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Well they might be a plucky bunch but events are unfolding in favour of the mean, cowardly, back shooting ambushers and the brave and plucky Revenue men decide they would be better off by making a strategic withdrawal. They have given their best but the odds were always against them, I think it was eight to eight but two of them only have 1 leg each so in a leg count the odds were against them.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKuGJvXJo4LYowYkl2GnuCbFyXNwLAtE9WiDX7hQXbxH_lO8wSNXulNz9GXW92CyFkGiE-JWfzf2KrLYvwPb7MoEbAKXIl3KMkObXYDWOfRBUiUuN1k-fZBmwo25n6W4tmuGJEhUaKgxyuzRCM9HdeBPXhAqEouV3D_B52nA2B_LIGbGOpl6hosxVz5g/s700/019%20P1500363a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="368" data-original-width="700" height="336" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKuGJvXJo4LYowYkl2GnuCbFyXNwLAtE9WiDX7hQXbxH_lO8wSNXulNz9GXW92CyFkGiE-JWfzf2KrLYvwPb7MoEbAKXIl3KMkObXYDWOfRBUiUuN1k-fZBmwo25n6W4tmuGJEhUaKgxyuzRCM9HdeBPXhAqEouV3D_B52nA2B_LIGbGOpl6hosxVz5g/w640-h336/019%20P1500363a.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Tempest Abercrombie, Edouard d’Orsay and Modesty Higginbottom looking pale and wan, make a fighting withdrawal (at speed) back down the green lane leaving behind many brave men and women of the Revenue Service.</div><div><br /></div><div>There is an adjunct, maybe an addenda or addendum depending on your level of education, mine leads me to think of it as an extra bit but I’m sure someone will correct me soon enough.</div><div><br /></div><div>After a few stiffening libations down at the Dog and Sprocket the surviving members of the Revenue men decided that they should return to the scene of their defeat and see if any of their brothers in arms survived the vicious and unprovoked ambush. Quietly moving up the green lane they can see lights on in Squire Samuel Benbow Snapcase’s house. Edging closer they see candles flickering and hear loud, raucous voices, shouting and singing as if in celebration.</div><div><br /></div><div>They creep up to the house and hear some talk that indicates the rather manish figure in the tight fitting green uniform is none other than the infamous The Honourable Verity (Peaches) Snapcase, is she related in some strange way to Squire Snapcase? </div><div><br /></div><div> Almost certainly.</div><div><br /></div><div>Then Edouard remembers the recent rumour that the current Lord Snapcase has recruited a unit of ruffians and nerdowells called the Silver Bayonet, can this be the very same brigands that set upon the Revenue men.</div><div><br /></div><div>As I hope, you will have realized my opponent for this game was the well known Mad Lord Snapcase, Lady Snapcase was visiting family and friends in the area and he was able to slip away for a short while. As always after his infrequent visits I was left saddened by the fact that he and the other member of our Triumvirate Sir Douglas live so far away. However on counting the number of empty bottles of wine and the depleted state of my larder it’s maybe just as well.</div><div><br /></div><div>Anyway I hope you enjoyed reading my true and impartial account of our game.</div><div><br /></div><div>Cheers</div>Vagabondhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14031648950206231742noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7655102169795953648.post-32271714169855007522023-02-03T20:38:00.000+00:002023-02-03T20:38:24.761+00:00Dark Alchemy - The Spreading FlamesThe Spreading Flames – The third and final scenario in the series.<div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjN6UJx6PWIpQ-ZNjbniuJwPa_2Hyk51mJazoeSoYXKonKFz8mlXuehtGZvUXW10PsKIa3qwSn_V4FXOSCWlLaFt0hAnhhrKP1a-3VSAe6FmH0QqHFiSmEtfNkG7SjSit5B83W3sm0qtart05hQZKrAsuEoEiBjNQOmOIiR5yNT20WPAm8HGB3OBtCiaQ/s700/001%20P1490634.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="398" data-original-width="700" height="364" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjN6UJx6PWIpQ-ZNjbniuJwPa_2Hyk51mJazoeSoYXKonKFz8mlXuehtGZvUXW10PsKIa3qwSn_V4FXOSCWlLaFt0hAnhhrKP1a-3VSAe6FmH0QqHFiSmEtfNkG7SjSit5B83W3sm0qtart05hQZKrAsuEoEiBjNQOmOIiR5yNT20WPAm8HGB3OBtCiaQ/w640-h364/001%20P1490634.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>“Where the hell are we” was the first thought that went Signy Freyasdatter mind, followed swiftly by “it must be Rufina’s fault” What was that huge explosion, then looking around her she realised that things had taken a turn for the worse.</div><div><br /></div><div>Where is Thanda…. Where the hell is Rufina….. Where the hell are we.</div><div><br /></div><div>Of all the members of Thanda’s Household the three looking back at her were the maddest and wildest of the bunch, great in a bar room fight but not the sharpest knive’s in the drawer. Well apart from Valeria the Vixen, she wasn’t the sharpest knife but she carried the sharpest knife, four of them at least. Mad as they come, completely fearless she kept her knives sharp enough to shave the hairs on you leg should anyone be daft enough to do that. She can throw them at you, stab or gouge you, slice lumps off you, well you get the point, or maybe the edge.</div><div><br /></div><div>She will attack without provocation, wild eyed and howling for blood but her enemy has usually fled before she closes for the wild close dirty in fighting that she adores. She feels no pain when in this berserk fighting fury, wounds don’t slow her, only in the aftermath of blood letting does she rest, exhausted and weary, her energy spent.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhv5QrQwj_8XaTzQxVGAWTcMCuPkzYdPgH_uTotAqElrgO7N62QqTdYs-v8p4Cj-VpuAdD9I9wvZ4qPQ1aXJYl7lbVhhx_WW8hH614EEa8NwBOoTHg4cOjHfW8lmGY_TPMk4cjbUNUoYNM8BRzaD8rgGMW-wBikltEe6DY-dwiTXDv68HYMEE3sLWmLWQ/s700/002%20P1490635.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="525" data-original-width="700" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhv5QrQwj_8XaTzQxVGAWTcMCuPkzYdPgH_uTotAqElrgO7N62QqTdYs-v8p4Cj-VpuAdD9I9wvZ4qPQ1aXJYl7lbVhhx_WW8hH614EEa8NwBOoTHg4cOjHfW8lmGY_TPMk4cjbUNUoYNM8BRzaD8rgGMW-wBikltEe6DY-dwiTXDv68HYMEE3sLWmLWQ/w640-h480/002%20P1490635.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>“What are we going to do” asked Ayesha in that Northern truculent tone she used so often. Signy didn’t have much time to think about how to answer that because some metal machine was approaching them quickly and it didn’t look friendly.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmB_Oe7uyvnnpjI0LyIygbfUe7K7bULFLtOkZxJHpGcRDzu4TjscK8vgidIr0kghjmXwee-ZOUhq8KRa79hxhahW1aIPzydWYSfIc33qExFvBSYh7u0D45Izz2RxAZS7eL39IsadokZg1N-1Idr90X3SkKG8SBtsjs8U6kD26ShfYAaEs1oxOBLLO9qA/s700/003%20P1490636.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="525" data-original-width="700" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmB_Oe7uyvnnpjI0LyIygbfUe7K7bULFLtOkZxJHpGcRDzu4TjscK8vgidIr0kghjmXwee-ZOUhq8KRa79hxhahW1aIPzydWYSfIc33qExFvBSYh7u0D45Izz2RxAZS7eL39IsadokZg1N-1Idr90X3SkKG8SBtsjs8U6kD26ShfYAaEs1oxOBLLO9qA/w640-h480/003%20P1490636.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Spurting a stream of fire the machine indicated its intent and Signy was hit hard by the blast. She was from the far north, where the wind and ice hold fast, pale as death, wild as a wild thing, Signy learned to survive by stealing what she needed. Her parents were killed by Frost Giants, her family dead or scattered she had to survive alone.</div><div><br /></div><div>Her skill in moving silently, or gaining the trust of the most boorish guard had always been her stock in trade, when that failed she had Fang, her small but deadly sharp knife hidden deep in her clothing, she could strike with the speed that a Rattlesnake would admire but she’d never come up against a metal machine spouting fire and she fell hard.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidLQvahxMfiEA5PwUp0ds4yS4kKdqSTI1_9UuzikGAugIXrktc1HgXvuiReELAaZGBZgTHZtB-73kObPj_kxmWU_EIj8rQk_HM3Ae8ODzFiUviGKpGfdpS79A0WOehu8wcw-Rf6eCeiRZRwNE1O2FuUonQBJj3dE5DHefbY6bCH6EKOof4a9Lp1fwOMg/s700/004%20P1490637.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="440" data-original-width="700" height="402" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidLQvahxMfiEA5PwUp0ds4yS4kKdqSTI1_9UuzikGAugIXrktc1HgXvuiReELAaZGBZgTHZtB-73kObPj_kxmWU_EIj8rQk_HM3Ae8ODzFiUviGKpGfdpS79A0WOehu8wcw-Rf6eCeiRZRwNE1O2FuUonQBJj3dE5DHefbY6bCH6EKOof4a9Lp1fwOMg/w640-h402/004%20P1490637.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Valeria you know, but Astrid gloried in battle, she fought berserk (without a shirt!), swinging her axe like a wild thing, nothing would stop her. She rushed into the centre of any fight no matter the odds and had always emerged victorious. Another Northerner like Signy but not as pale as death, she was as bronzed as an eagle’s wing having travelled extensively in the southern lands where she was held in awe by the men and women alike.</div><div><br /></div><div>Two of the best warriors in the known world would surely make short work of this metal monster.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtxu3jjbVwx_bAvCQBRzLdaGwN67PKIkQViz9emvPHvjo2jgC99nREIZUgwGafZXMjatTy3mQ_1WaUe-E8BjG2THZykZhcpKS8uARPx3vxttlMPPiJavWCG0FLEBX7u5Jq7ZxAz_giHJ58oaupR56lB6erTmvEZ8CQ6dD4vIzGIa8bdiXdu0qir6O_WA/s700/005%20P1490639.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="423" data-original-width="700" height="386" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtxu3jjbVwx_bAvCQBRzLdaGwN67PKIkQViz9emvPHvjo2jgC99nREIZUgwGafZXMjatTy3mQ_1WaUe-E8BjG2THZykZhcpKS8uARPx3vxttlMPPiJavWCG0FLEBX7u5Jq7ZxAz_giHJ58oaupR56lB6erTmvEZ8CQ6dD4vIzGIa8bdiXdu0qir6O_WA/w640-h386/005%20P1490639.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Apparently not as Astrid fell beneath the weapon of the metal monster.</div><div><br /></div><div>Another one trundled into the combat and the odds shifted from 2 to 1 in favour of the wild women to 2 to 1 in favour of the metal monsters.</div><div><br /></div><div>Would Valeria back off? Of course not but she glanced over at Ayesha fighting one on one with another of the metal beasts.</div><div><br /></div><div>Ayesha is a warrior born and bred, she’s a warrior with an attitude…..a bad attitude. Born and brought up in the wild, wild north west she quickly learnt to fight to take and keep what she needed to survive.</div><div><br /></div><div>Young, beautiful, fast and swift, like all superb warriors she distains armour in favour of speed. Her right arm guard acts like a small shield and she carries an enchanted bronze sword. “Blitzen”. Sharper than a razor and twice as deadly, used in Ayshera’s off hand this proves too much of a challenge for most warriors.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQEeE4YDItFwvK3Ee_1rO3URAxXHU2pRKlt3tm4Anyg_6aIA2tu-E2STHoexYsoqbKr5n0Fb7Axrst99kUvSxZ_mPz8-C_pPDzaX33cljRsazOOe0wVX_TyGj7547ud4ZouNN3MLJrH8O_LABa8SM2E4AMIEo2iseiegzER5yZcOM7KkQcP7XLeqCU8A/s700/006%20P1490642.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="415" data-original-width="700" height="380" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQEeE4YDItFwvK3Ee_1rO3URAxXHU2pRKlt3tm4Anyg_6aIA2tu-E2STHoexYsoqbKr5n0Fb7Axrst99kUvSxZ_mPz8-C_pPDzaX33cljRsazOOe0wVX_TyGj7547ud4ZouNN3MLJrH8O_LABa8SM2E4AMIEo2iseiegzER5yZcOM7KkQcP7XLeqCU8A/w640-h380/006%20P1490642.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Unfortunately these metal machines are like no opponent the girls have ever encountered before and she falls beneath its attack.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEin0VEc6P0e3QKHlCw2zIICHWGZdFpWRUWDwAww3NtlFSnkMvQSN-lE22MJB1zB3GxeVEtD_vk5ZZhi29nHpQvXBLyWxNnESWDgq3mrqJ70kf1V3zU_gLzJTxPne79F9SS9ppGLUjvHr9p0hie2a3vhCyBA-GT4Jm3qSN6RqEStIPRof0ZvM9AVimHLxA/s700/007%20P1490641.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="471" data-original-width="700" height="430" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEin0VEc6P0e3QKHlCw2zIICHWGZdFpWRUWDwAww3NtlFSnkMvQSN-lE22MJB1zB3GxeVEtD_vk5ZZhi29nHpQvXBLyWxNnESWDgq3mrqJ70kf1V3zU_gLzJTxPne79F9SS9ppGLUjvHr9p0hie2a3vhCyBA-GT4Jm3qSN6RqEStIPRof0ZvM9AVimHLxA/w640-h430/007%20P1490641.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>With a titanic effort Valeria tips one of her opponents onto its back and it whirls and buzzes before becoming still.</div><div><br /></div><div>This is going really badly, I’m 3 warriors down and have defeated one Fire Flinger, there’s 3 still to go, can Valeria defeat 3 of the beasts. I doubt it very much.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjO-eGCFVH8Te3OW-2z4pa4MYChoo_dWdWNaRbMgG8l_ERLUkV_wfZDgmJ92AdRQPO4cNy7pXtupjgyllrgQzHV_oP6kxVJVct35ZdtCRlq2Stnsrpci47rlxgJu-iXcfUZooCWhpT5OiZVrK42DJ0LOWGYaQGPRFpbKDIW_qPSLCPKydDAMHndYAidNQ/s700/008%20P1490643.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="434" data-original-width="700" height="396" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjO-eGCFVH8Te3OW-2z4pa4MYChoo_dWdWNaRbMgG8l_ERLUkV_wfZDgmJ92AdRQPO4cNy7pXtupjgyllrgQzHV_oP6kxVJVct35ZdtCRlq2Stnsrpci47rlxgJu-iXcfUZooCWhpT5OiZVrK42DJ0LOWGYaQGPRFpbKDIW_qPSLCPKydDAMHndYAidNQ/w640-h396/008%20P1490643.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>It’s not always a good thing to be proven right, as Valeria is the last to fall but fall she does.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgr7gypUlFjz79rLrnvs7tKCSLIBm48jrAvqIX2u7uTRms4GuYA_3qH0dpBNS309QyQMcykaiYphPS3iYJVH7Ed3FhlUXRVg9bDC-WWLR2w9eiUczNTe8PvZZ0ojLDlltHu8ZP46FlY20rvGcolaSDuC65LJyKrWTAQAVvkVuPgt0Ibh39AgkyPXLdRbQ/s700/009%20P1490644.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="466" data-original-width="700" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgr7gypUlFjz79rLrnvs7tKCSLIBm48jrAvqIX2u7uTRms4GuYA_3qH0dpBNS309QyQMcykaiYphPS3iYJVH7Ed3FhlUXRVg9bDC-WWLR2w9eiUczNTe8PvZZ0ojLDlltHu8ZP46FlY20rvGcolaSDuC65LJyKrWTAQAVvkVuPgt0Ibh39AgkyPXLdRbQ/w640-h426/009%20P1490644.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>I don’t really understand the 3 scenarios, are they linked, as I read it, not really. You can use any of your Warriors, Wizards or Apprentices with some constraints. So it’s not like the same four starters continue throughout the campaign. After the 1st game you can chose a new band. I was originally going to use the same 4 throughout but decided to spread out the Xp and Gc’s throughout Thanda’s band of reprobates and so started 4 new characters in each game.</div><div><br /></div><div>If that’s the case, how do they all exit the factory? It all seems a bit nebulous so having had a disastrous series of dice rolls in this game I decided that I’d bring them all into the final compound to try and make their escape before the Factory blows up.</div><div><br /></div><div>The game had lasted 5 turns so far, so there are 5 more turns before it all blows to hell and beyond.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKhkZRO80iDjjU6ofX_fkZqVvE0X4nqdRg8-oHwkB7Ga2KSy1eotQOqbuu4LlnUUGAeHGpdFemU6TvnaCEgp6Zfp0WM5WWT6FMhva4RuZVF2_0bwOJGOkVmDysykqTTfhWrIXHgb5NqqlnvdKUhY_U3VPTrQ9qEWeD3pnpveL8A6OcYn7Ri_1x7KVn1A/s700/010%20P1490645.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="525" data-original-width="700" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKhkZRO80iDjjU6ofX_fkZqVvE0X4nqdRg8-oHwkB7Ga2KSy1eotQOqbuu4LlnUUGAeHGpdFemU6TvnaCEgp6Zfp0WM5WWT6FMhva4RuZVF2_0bwOJGOkVmDysykqTTfhWrIXHgb5NqqlnvdKUhY_U3VPTrQ9qEWeD3pnpveL8A6OcYn7Ri_1x7KVn1A/w640-h480/010%20P1490645.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Drawn by the noise Rufina leads her band towards the open area and sees that Signy and the wild woman are all down. She sees the metal thing looming over Signy and digs deep, summoning an Elemental Bolt spell. Fuelled by fury and fear it swells in her arm before blasting out of her right hand like an avenging Angel. It hit the metal machine hard, igniting its fuel container and there’s a huge explosion that sees flames reaching high in the sky and that’s the end on that adversary.</div><div><br /></div><div>Meanwhile Thanda had seen the metal monstrosity about to administer the coup de grass to Aysha she had immediately cast a leap spell on it, worried that anything more deadly might damage Ayesha. The metal machine was heavy but her magic knew no bounds as it was lifted and dropped many yards away from its lift off point.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigjCZSooTbqx6uataWyK1u_mmJNnxbD8nSVNOm-HlWpFOk114nXv53MzfuhCqLuuxPq4Ufn9vuvv8tRPyes0mXSZhNIWCnhaQbqQyVntj1puNtpIE-XvpgsZdVKuIWkuYl3yh_cu_IGF7IpDQAa2hiJucPYcIv8842bb6FAMeP9qDdVyTdEzBg2wdKGA/s700/011%20P1490646.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="416" data-original-width="700" height="380" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigjCZSooTbqx6uataWyK1u_mmJNnxbD8nSVNOm-HlWpFOk114nXv53MzfuhCqLuuxPq4Ufn9vuvv8tRPyes0mXSZhNIWCnhaQbqQyVntj1puNtpIE-XvpgsZdVKuIWkuYl3yh_cu_IGF7IpDQAa2hiJucPYcIv8842bb6FAMeP9qDdVyTdEzBg2wdKGA/w640-h380/011%20P1490646.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Then the forth Fire Flinger appeared round the corner of a container and daringly flings fire at Thanda. It is close and she takes some damage which only serves to inflame her anger more. She lifts her left hand, raising her forefinger and starts to chant.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0TO8lsggnmbm6NdfrSsiQGvkhVcL-zlZyP5taTCWjJHuXpLnQL-TyBTLVaqRxBenK-3aIk9OSgycZX0rcwAYvFoo7WOXBclZolamCf16A2e5MccPt2M1R5PfKLV7SH9QeyWHC1HUMr_-HEuUjeFEmn4Lb-6I1kU-ix-LRvKyGg1uQpoev9zri2x84XA/s700/012%20P1490661.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="439" data-original-width="700" height="402" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0TO8lsggnmbm6NdfrSsiQGvkhVcL-zlZyP5taTCWjJHuXpLnQL-TyBTLVaqRxBenK-3aIk9OSgycZX0rcwAYvFoo7WOXBclZolamCf16A2e5MccPt2M1R5PfKLV7SH9QeyWHC1HUMr_-HEuUjeFEmn4Lb-6I1kU-ix-LRvKyGg1uQpoev9zri2x84XA/w640-h402/012%20P1490661.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>If the Fire Flinger had been a sentient being it would have known fear, if it had been a sentient being it would probably run off and hidden but it wasn’t sentient and it just exploded in a ball of flame as the Elemental Bolt of energy hit it.</div><div><br /></div><div>Don’t mess with me….little thing, Thanda muttered.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxIqQil7bpaBwh3cV6JBor0aIMXf3QGPd-EV_jLDv0hQFJRVI-mgZlxpIt8QcPfGPPFAdCY3v7p45RoJnaTQkFbP0cbaXy2baH_pjE9ueIiDbVez3sH66D-amQTfcIytw3flBlqH-ew9W8akA2mvpni9D9vKBnTzNdjVupsJ6CkpO3Ho8oWRXUyvou4g/s700/013%20P1490649.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="525" data-original-width="700" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxIqQil7bpaBwh3cV6JBor0aIMXf3QGPd-EV_jLDv0hQFJRVI-mgZlxpIt8QcPfGPPFAdCY3v7p45RoJnaTQkFbP0cbaXy2baH_pjE9ueIiDbVez3sH66D-amQTfcIytw3flBlqH-ew9W8akA2mvpni9D9vKBnTzNdjVupsJ6CkpO3Ho8oWRXUyvou4g/w640-h480/013%20P1490649.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Rufina’s crew knew what they had to do, well Red Sonia told them what to do, which is similar.</div><div><br /></div><div>Believing the area was unstable, ready to explode at any minute, they ran forward to rescue the members of Signy’s band before it all went to rat shit.</div><div><br /></div><div>Sonia and Ashara were able to pick up two of the fallen but Tina was having a lot of difficulty with Valeria and could barely manage to drag her along. That only left Aysha, to the left of the picture, she still had to be rescued but was close to the centre of the area and it would be difficult if not impossible to get her off in time.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0p1MUvcty9UPTMFU0Wh0ircglmtjb35xnaGW1Wo_NcIFM_shZQ6p8nCdLfeoH6C_Uy2t7Rb-3JJgXUcIQfHnJCR6L-R5QDCz9_WKPn6t6AizVQ1GwPylj4l-f12WmeLAvatFNukxr_BLi8Atp6bYXG90YBErPXkYON-dzy2X_SSGvtlsCpehm56YJsA/s700/014%20P1490648.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="353" data-original-width="700" height="322" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0p1MUvcty9UPTMFU0Wh0ircglmtjb35xnaGW1Wo_NcIFM_shZQ6p8nCdLfeoH6C_Uy2t7Rb-3JJgXUcIQfHnJCR6L-R5QDCz9_WKPn6t6AizVQ1GwPylj4l-f12WmeLAvatFNukxr_BLi8Atp6bYXG90YBErPXkYON-dzy2X_SSGvtlsCpehm56YJsA/w640-h322/014%20P1490648.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>The Metal monster that Thanda had cast over the containers, rushed around befuddled, it couldn’t see any enemy and moved off in the wrong direction.</div><div><br /></div><div>The first good thing that’s happened.</div><div><br /></div><div>With three of the Flame Throwers out of action and the fourth moving away from the action.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgXQZQBCvzwTNPVMJL0TW-rI2ZqgHKC-9GLDC4NjTuIQn8Y0HF0yASj__4QOIJlWrFPCB0p3--b5tQw4pk0r2srr_SxCYpfDLZxC_6REiFp6v5B3N_D9NfjhEHKhVTDYPLZnTOeWt3BgaQR7jrHl7t5BsuDH-Y757fl2EqV3uDOPao1hsnXz3OUaDwYg/s700/015%20P1490651.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="446" data-original-width="700" height="408" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgXQZQBCvzwTNPVMJL0TW-rI2ZqgHKC-9GLDC4NjTuIQn8Y0HF0yASj__4QOIJlWrFPCB0p3--b5tQw4pk0r2srr_SxCYpfDLZxC_6REiFp6v5B3N_D9NfjhEHKhVTDYPLZnTOeWt3BgaQR7jrHl7t5BsuDH-Y757fl2EqV3uDOPao1hsnXz3OUaDwYg/w640-h408/015%20P1490651.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Akira had almost made it but had become distracted by a bright shiny gem stone and was in a dilemma, which to rescue, Ayesha or the Jewel.</div><div><br /></div><div>I really should has been thinking more clearly when I gave all these figures names, far too many beginning with A and all sounding similar.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoJc_c-Ver4Zavzn4B3Acv0lVqNGIxcS352jPZqSacZGiHsIGZlGZ-Aatg4jBZcEKzjNzS0igeUbDtJ3axdNyrDIXQVTzykF_gHsN8Nh62FCNxsWGrId1M0vS4lD1Zs9UUa4MSHvsGWICFfxjFRqt6z_hBaL9vjbV8PSQy8NZyc2UIl5dcXrL9bcfSNg/s700/016%20P1490654.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="431" data-original-width="700" height="394" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoJc_c-Ver4Zavzn4B3Acv0lVqNGIxcS352jPZqSacZGiHsIGZlGZ-Aatg4jBZcEKzjNzS0igeUbDtJ3axdNyrDIXQVTzykF_gHsN8Nh62FCNxsWGrId1M0vS4lD1Zs9UUa4MSHvsGWICFfxjFRqt6z_hBaL9vjbV8PSQy8NZyc2UIl5dcXrL9bcfSNg/w640-h394/016%20P1490654.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Thanda helped her make a decision by casting a leap spell on Ayesha that dropped her very close to the fire, but them immediately cast a second leap spell, throwing her off the edge of the compound and to safety.</div><div><br /></div><div>A little bruised and battered from the landings but better than being blown up when the Compound explodes in 3 moves time.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8zVFPfJb18piFQbfakxha0ZUsHTSTITdNR2WxpsIqP8ZnkD7Bp8XZZstYyVRgYnUBjWPzPWEKS0X_AQIQCFus63Fum8Gohlye-RjoG1bUOiPp1CO8qe5_IADewbN5HR_9pU6bTLOnN5vdIpPCy05MeH_3uJs9fXchO8VWcJsXwrshhUiXLXZx5eT7KA/s700/017%20P1490656.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="525" data-original-width="700" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8zVFPfJb18piFQbfakxha0ZUsHTSTITdNR2WxpsIqP8ZnkD7Bp8XZZstYyVRgYnUBjWPzPWEKS0X_AQIQCFus63Fum8Gohlye-RjoG1bUOiPp1CO8qe5_IADewbN5HR_9pU6bTLOnN5vdIpPCy05MeH_3uJs9fXchO8VWcJsXwrshhUiXLXZx5eT7KA/w640-h480/017%20P1490656.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Encumbered by their burdens Rufina’s mob are making slow progress, it will be touch and go for them until Rufina was able to cast a Leap Spell on Valeria and threw her clear.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTKciyAATT9dMtaA7uvPebYwxpU4R7N9omzVS4Bbif8NfahGvG6bXkAIHVH1wQZotDBs-kuCMiqDMlOMlhvTIZDtrl1JvtGMb5U1J6MaSnC4mWOyP5xPBEfHg-umE-EfktkshaOZy1WhKPXVA9ExRwiVXHtpFh4iwsLgyrGvTCppq-SPBKvcMJlbexug/s700/018%20P1490660.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="437" data-original-width="700" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTKciyAATT9dMtaA7uvPebYwxpU4R7N9omzVS4Bbif8NfahGvG6bXkAIHVH1wQZotDBs-kuCMiqDMlOMlhvTIZDtrl1JvtGMb5U1J6MaSnC4mWOyP5xPBEfHg-umE-EfktkshaOZy1WhKPXVA9ExRwiVXHtpFh4iwsLgyrGvTCppq-SPBKvcMJlbexug/w640-h400/018%20P1490660.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Tina and Rufina were then able to help carry Astrid and they were able to make the edge of the compound with 1 move spare.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_wksbwHuH3zh3vBmAEzxh7Ns1npgv8wdKAiCoPnYIP9DbMXxIjsHb6tBuvCsR0NcMbEqjtV1dLk-foesrhGJJSUGq1d1MKr9o2Bt7ewlpdhk72L_zCFFJcLc0qGtLauOmWDxBaKM4cR2MWUOlGcd3_5byN4egH3ByHXei_f2fw_VQdz0XopnkAG99ZA/s700/019%20P1490658.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="374" data-original-width="700" height="342" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_wksbwHuH3zh3vBmAEzxh7Ns1npgv8wdKAiCoPnYIP9DbMXxIjsHb6tBuvCsR0NcMbEqjtV1dLk-foesrhGJJSUGq1d1MKr9o2Bt7ewlpdhk72L_zCFFJcLc0qGtLauOmWDxBaKM4cR2MWUOlGcd3_5byN4egH3ByHXei_f2fw_VQdz0XopnkAG99ZA/w640-h342/019%20P1490658.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Thanda was encouraging her warriors to get out of Dodge before realizing they were all faster than she was, they’d also managed to liberate a couple of treasures so quite a profitable venture so far.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4Nr16DrSFIaKc6rDviY0gy9axeMkfxoJfeURkkfV_G0AyU5mwZktIue2o3BBQmMIirfB5anxOMN50Tcu2ysF-UHd54JijDGmAQZdmfC9Hgq7fsPcUNodG086q8sl54j_snieoVrxRxTf7YukGNM69wulRMrUvGox08fSzKIRfNUmjqNCe7X2Xsezb0w/s700/020%20P1490659.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="375" data-original-width="700" height="342" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4Nr16DrSFIaKc6rDviY0gy9axeMkfxoJfeURkkfV_G0AyU5mwZktIue2o3BBQmMIirfB5anxOMN50Tcu2ysF-UHd54JijDGmAQZdmfC9Hgq7fsPcUNodG086q8sl54j_snieoVrxRxTf7YukGNM69wulRMrUvGox08fSzKIRfNUmjqNCe7X2Xsezb0w/w640-h342/020%20P1490659.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Akira, relieved of her difficult decision had grabbed the jewel and was legging it for the edge, she made it on the 10th move, the explosion accoutred on the start of the 11th move and by that time everyone was safe.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLvFh7V6ba_Ws7bk05isD8KC3Ga3lVgLTCL4ITsDdYICFiWoXCB_FaLvPzYTa1MQRc4_5iVAj8iqw1oWtGMzFPfGvbVRlStc4mF507SKRRZ5m7uDVcK9_DYhyXBQwfqlXsTZOeTdhgo8wlVMZQlnvpZWVDOf-KuK2IXztVkGjmpoO9xUHwKErJlC8swg/s700/021%20P1490664.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="219" data-original-width="700" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLvFh7V6ba_Ws7bk05isD8KC3Ga3lVgLTCL4ITsDdYICFiWoXCB_FaLvPzYTa1MQRc4_5iVAj8iqw1oWtGMzFPfGvbVRlStc4mF507SKRRZ5m7uDVcK9_DYhyXBQwfqlXsTZOeTdhgo8wlVMZQlnvpZWVDOf-KuK2IXztVkGjmpoO9xUHwKErJlC8swg/w640-h200/021%20P1490664.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>After the eruption of the exploding Compound it was discovered that the four casualties were just banged about a little with no lasting damage and so Thanda was able to find the secret passage that led back through the Worm Hole in Space and Time. What do you mean, you don’t remember a Worm Hole, that’s how it all started at the beginning of this 3 game campaign.</div><div><br /></div><div>Anyway they all made it home richer and wiser and ready for their next adventure but I’ll not be using D20’s to resolve combat or magic in future.</div>Vagabondhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14031648950206231742noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7655102169795953648.post-87370857530481575132023-01-27T20:53:00.002+00:002023-01-27T20:53:15.847+00:00Dark Alchemy – Burning SkeletonsDark Alchemy – Burning Skeletons<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5PNge0jVcFTso_RpnJPLrCM5hG4Pr0BU5uSSa4NV5Hg0jT9CTU2mK2ospk8Z7nsmBY82QQ7jltiQ9lhTNvJIp5B2i1mdGdJ4oSiyRQal_491RCE1TNrBADEbSdXKBx3_JcAt_08zCmtj3Ziq_jE8bJVAzdIVlLgp2buohSJ8h7QnYEHrBxU2LoGR9iw/s700/001%20P1490586.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="350" data-original-width="700" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5PNge0jVcFTso_RpnJPLrCM5hG4Pr0BU5uSSa4NV5Hg0jT9CTU2mK2ospk8Z7nsmBY82QQ7jltiQ9lhTNvJIp5B2i1mdGdJ4oSiyRQal_491RCE1TNrBADEbSdXKBx3_JcAt_08zCmtj3Ziq_jE8bJVAzdIVlLgp2buohSJ8h7QnYEHrBxU2LoGR9iw/w640-h320/001%20P1490586.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div><div>What the hell happened Thanda thought to herself, I bet it was Rufina who set off the explosion, she’s a useless Apprentice at times, even if she can boil a perfect egg. She thought back to the explosion in the Factory, it was only minutes ago and she tried to piece together the events leading up to it, bugger that. The past was the past and wouldn’t affect the future. She looked round at the crew of attentive faces gazing back at her.</div><div><br /></div><div>There were no questions in their looks, they had the utmost confidence in her abilities to deal with anything that was thrown at them. Besides, they were the A team. Aneka, Akira and Atsuko, they could take on most things without the help of one of the most famous Wizards in the known world.</div><div><br /></div><div>Thanda the Grim looked grimly back at them, she was renowned for her Grim Gaze, it could turn the strongest of opponents into a quivering lump of jelly and into a solid lump of stone on a really grumpy day, and she had quite a few grumpy days.</div><div><br /></div><div>She was armed with her renowned staff “Retribution”, carved with sigils of power in the black times before the known world, it had twinned with Thanda countless ages ago, recognising another powerful entity and together they were invincible.</div><div><br /></div><div>Well, that’s the story Thanda spread and paid Bards to sing in the taverns throughout the land. It saved a lot of unfortunate incidents if other Wizards moved aside without testing the tale to its fullest extent. Her long dead Sensei had instilled in her that Power was given to those who took it and a Legend helped create that Power. Of course you needed to show the Power once in a while and she could, whenever there wasn’t an easer way to gain her way.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUfFCR25dHJHIE4twNf6bjstssLsJH-7f_ILGpdf5114w1Z31312v7yZVlDa64VTii3hZaH9Ynjre1bHwZy3W8DC00baZ-auEKsafvzqCC9GpUdUBFb6dT8ICPG3mYEkqTnVtrkAFdnQBqAkby2FUau-jshudllVdY7Or2XhW7bWZ7XNIwvewMv3WmQA/s700/002%20P1490588.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="398" data-original-width="700" height="364" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUfFCR25dHJHIE4twNf6bjstssLsJH-7f_ILGpdf5114w1Z31312v7yZVlDa64VTii3hZaH9Ynjre1bHwZy3W8DC00baZ-auEKsafvzqCC9GpUdUBFb6dT8ICPG3mYEkqTnVtrkAFdnQBqAkby2FUau-jshudllVdY7Or2XhW7bWZ7XNIwvewMv3WmQA/w640-h364/002%20P1490588.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>They were in a long, ruined compound with no conception where the rest of her Household were, she knew there was no point in waiting for them to come to her, she would have to find them.</div><div><br /></div><div>Come on then, what are you waiting for, lets go.</div><div><br /></div><div>Her warriors smiled grimly, (it must be contagious) and moved forwards.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsyQY1kdKJvB296msE_syz0Rb_cpk-TengCobYInCiyWjG4RG20FRjHZ7lswm2H1sllbZnBy25MKyTUkdlWXZL6LpDVvRvwcJEQ0IJgnG90VWd3B0FS1mOR_GzwCztD9KdWGAjAgKP9KkY4hHWpW0UzxpN5f-ZqlTTMvOksIEfSqc5egsyF1u6EFR1mw/s700/003%20P1490589.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="485" data-original-width="700" height="444" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsyQY1kdKJvB296msE_syz0Rb_cpk-TengCobYInCiyWjG4RG20FRjHZ7lswm2H1sllbZnBy25MKyTUkdlWXZL6LpDVvRvwcJEQ0IJgnG90VWd3B0FS1mOR_GzwCztD9KdWGAjAgKP9KkY4hHWpW0UzxpN5f-ZqlTTMvOksIEfSqc5egsyF1u6EFR1mw/w640-h444/003%20P1490589.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Akira the Thief, Atsuko the Fighter and Aneka the Hunter quickly moved forwards to provide a covering screen for Thanda, who quietly cast a Fleet Foot spell on herself so that she could keep up with her young band. There was a momentary fizzle of negative energy as the spell cast failed, Damn she thought, that explosion has disturbed my force more than I expected, or maybe it’s just the rheumatism playing up again.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinqd3mQxLR9Cj7AFQCAUsHKRfRs0nKXUUBGDtib-vEIvGekLum1IZUXSinZyquxJ7vqVU4L7XEzRReDwCP3fVKq6resvSm4OpL42pucRwVMvhh0YDiIojmwPOw3g_-iyJ3UHCpK8VHTPRTfnAQytdnM4KCY6jfdKR31mIgP44SMBUDsWScYtHwYUrklw/s700/004%20P1490593.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="422" data-original-width="700" height="386" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinqd3mQxLR9Cj7AFQCAUsHKRfRs0nKXUUBGDtib-vEIvGekLum1IZUXSinZyquxJ7vqVU4L7XEzRReDwCP3fVKq6resvSm4OpL42pucRwVMvhh0YDiIojmwPOw3g_-iyJ3UHCpK8VHTPRTfnAQytdnM4KCY6jfdKR31mIgP44SMBUDsWScYtHwYUrklw/w640-h386/004%20P1490593.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>The compound appeared empty at first but then there was a strong smell of sulphur and burning and rotting flesh as 4 skeletons emerged from points around the compound.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjryR2o06EwEy8F--p_DYPnuumYs9IzMgwRXSA18yuiL-0x2AkbLhpcBhjSambVMaWTfk9dd5smZFAcv_7uMIxyFNkYZeZmAorctszDhf2lBw2Ce2Agcb8oj5QqaaWTUGpvk0-0Bg2dkhqzne9NaRLW_nTTfXJH4fQLowRGD8lraF43A1uvZt-lEEgb0g/s700/005%20P1490595.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="391" data-original-width="700" height="358" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjryR2o06EwEy8F--p_DYPnuumYs9IzMgwRXSA18yuiL-0x2AkbLhpcBhjSambVMaWTfk9dd5smZFAcv_7uMIxyFNkYZeZmAorctszDhf2lBw2Ce2Agcb8oj5QqaaWTUGpvk0-0Bg2dkhqzne9NaRLW_nTTfXJH4fQLowRGD8lraF43A1uvZt-lEEgb0g/w640-h358/005%20P1490595.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Then 2 of them disappeared.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj33jeqge2iDGfGqseP2jl9ZFC73zPAQvvivOVJsqGbBmvKKhgGfVVwlDxNQeFQTWOkIpt32L_CrvwvDTaJE60x0zitdUI1oJY5Wed_CVA4ybK9NmyCFJuRsjOHOcU6WTzhyidKpvAndrZAPjitSHPViOAWYxpzFCLwaQd7PHmWgUUBlZJuwcL8v6_snA/s700/006%20P1490598.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="492" data-original-width="700" height="450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj33jeqge2iDGfGqseP2jl9ZFC73zPAQvvivOVJsqGbBmvKKhgGfVVwlDxNQeFQTWOkIpt32L_CrvwvDTaJE60x0zitdUI1oJY5Wed_CVA4ybK9NmyCFJuRsjOHOcU6WTzhyidKpvAndrZAPjitSHPViOAWYxpzFCLwaQd7PHmWgUUBlZJuwcL8v6_snA/w640-h450/006%20P1490598.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Before turning up in the correct place.</div><div><br /></div><div>A slight misinterpretation of the scenario led to the confusion.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIgSjMaTeQ1_vlyLIfNAUD4UE8QBVcb2ysJWuKT5-QNP0jRf7q4U9LL2oz6caYUua3-iWvRLpCbOCx4GKpfcQaeOUnZ52AniIP3YwuwKTBCLVPEupKEoGcL5a4Jg45yD_I9pyjZTuwyqoxtydsVBKcvyZfAa7lmwntFHmYrNOq_c6hxaYkrrujSEYkag/s700/007%20P1490601.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="525" data-original-width="700" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIgSjMaTeQ1_vlyLIfNAUD4UE8QBVcb2ysJWuKT5-QNP0jRf7q4U9LL2oz6caYUua3-iWvRLpCbOCx4GKpfcQaeOUnZ52AniIP3YwuwKTBCLVPEupKEoGcL5a4Jg45yD_I9pyjZTuwyqoxtydsVBKcvyZfAa7lmwntFHmYrNOq_c6hxaYkrrujSEYkag/w640-h480/007%20P1490601.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Thanda has now cast a Spell of Fleet Foot on herself and almost caught up with Atsuko. She’s sent Akira right and Aneka left to search the blue barrels that might contain valuables.</div><div><br /></div><div>Atsuko has moved forward and is facing two of the Burning Skeletons</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjX4qmN0S8VI74WEdLBw8FP_5OU65X2Mh1fhIMolYb_qMJd6mvc1vAszT1hl_rWw3wHWvKb2_jlhLX_hesYaT8q4vgDUqwi5KKqHq_i_fB3mD1bqY03dl6m5TS7IFk96o7nU9MbfGjfnZvAMfmC_a87vvOKMXXx1Sck30vIgpkTKrxdcoEHuc1MWLR9bw/s700/008%20P1490599.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="361" data-original-width="700" height="330" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjX4qmN0S8VI74WEdLBw8FP_5OU65X2Mh1fhIMolYb_qMJd6mvc1vAszT1hl_rWw3wHWvKb2_jlhLX_hesYaT8q4vgDUqwi5KKqHq_i_fB3mD1bqY03dl6m5TS7IFk96o7nU9MbfGjfnZvAMfmC_a87vvOKMXXx1Sck30vIgpkTKrxdcoEHuc1MWLR9bw/w640-h330/008%20P1490599.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Aneka has arrived at the barrel but before she can check for treasure another Burning Skeleton appears from the Dunnie.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3fJE1ewUloFxYpy7j9Ak2NmhcO4XnuPpvjLRR6zPV7S2bqopyV33nGXWUVu2Vec_GoAYe0U2ZXddbUxp-1DutLnbg8o6agzKHC0DXHElJEfPX8yWpt14lf23-55nS7skTiqzwB8Wqd4b_KznRX10c4ztn-9--e6UwQXZDCwqwWW-QzVWA3QzHWVVjcg/s700/009%20P1490600.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="525" data-original-width="700" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3fJE1ewUloFxYpy7j9Ak2NmhcO4XnuPpvjLRR6zPV7S2bqopyV33nGXWUVu2Vec_GoAYe0U2ZXddbUxp-1DutLnbg8o6agzKHC0DXHElJEfPX8yWpt14lf23-55nS7skTiqzwB8Wqd4b_KznRX10c4ztn-9--e6UwQXZDCwqwWW-QzVWA3QzHWVVjcg/w640-h480/009%20P1490600.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>With a wailing screaming sound it charges straight at her.</div><div><br /></div><div>I expect if you were on fire it would be quite appropriate to wail and scream a little.</div><div><br /></div><div>Aneka is an all round warrior, she trained from an early age with a hand drawn crossbow. It doesn’t have the range of the windlass xbow but is faster to load and just as accurate at closer ranges. She’s not as proficient with her one handed short sword as she is with the crossbow but in close quarters, dirty fighting she’s deadly. She uses the small buckler offensively, punched into an opponents face, as well as defensively, to deflect the wickedest strike and is as good a warrior as you’ll find around here and believe me there are some good ones.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSmCD0nVe3wBXqbpwzY92ItxRyiD2kgSNyleLeFY5NZdWvutbNnfrNRB7-6tfr_AMXAsAaVJYTcfNqiu4Megh_oH5wJFP6XbAlSiGVUwnUB2Z6kuCywRH9zxzYde4d2vQ4dSGFFFQGAdHiOKdWaZDrclzPLuGRMN4SOlRhtuhHLhdNCj-oCPDOchQgaA/s700/010%20P1490602.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="407" data-original-width="700" height="372" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSmCD0nVe3wBXqbpwzY92ItxRyiD2kgSNyleLeFY5NZdWvutbNnfrNRB7-6tfr_AMXAsAaVJYTcfNqiu4Megh_oH5wJFP6XbAlSiGVUwnUB2Z6kuCywRH9zxzYde4d2vQ4dSGFFFQGAdHiOKdWaZDrclzPLuGRMN4SOlRhtuhHLhdNCj-oCPDOchQgaA/w640-h372/010%20P1490602.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>The Skeleton falls before her blade and smoulders away quietly.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmyuRGla9gTKhWEVOmAA8FAYiUQLylt1Wv_jmLJhg3U_mHIB6nv5Fc2AGcTi12Yz1aMKAVUBujh55LmUUT2WsxFjxw2hz-P6-QRTH_YMV5LAeNifIEDFQgJpL9qSSNm4i-3Pg6I0hsOXPmB-ZETqJs-PLV9c7nUEIB8005q05tMLeQiB1t8cD6kfL2KA/s700/011%20P1490604.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="504" data-original-width="700" height="460" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmyuRGla9gTKhWEVOmAA8FAYiUQLylt1Wv_jmLJhg3U_mHIB6nv5Fc2AGcTi12Yz1aMKAVUBujh55LmUUT2WsxFjxw2hz-P6-QRTH_YMV5LAeNifIEDFQgJpL9qSSNm4i-3Pg6I0hsOXPmB-ZETqJs-PLV9c7nUEIB8005q05tMLeQiB1t8cD6kfL2KA/w640-h460/011%20P1490604.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Just a picturesque picture of a burning skellie.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieZ-q7bzW4XiXBtA7ugYqE5bAfvFQVqBagov72Q9RVxl4VI_zInAuTbf3l6qaM6ZCk_HX6X435y32WulubdGZ9sCCyluVP5mJKlvBfuMHWh5a6RfQQukgaQSyBm7GlMnGPuDUpBIoUy1L-yX4N2LzVmTvkA2KIrr4nlUbIRBeNqv00eQ2hykA-FA6xxg/s700/012%20P1490606.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="438" data-original-width="700" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieZ-q7bzW4XiXBtA7ugYqE5bAfvFQVqBagov72Q9RVxl4VI_zInAuTbf3l6qaM6ZCk_HX6X435y32WulubdGZ9sCCyluVP5mJKlvBfuMHWh5a6RfQQukgaQSyBm7GlMnGPuDUpBIoUy1L-yX4N2LzVmTvkA2KIrr4nlUbIRBeNqv00eQ2hykA-FA6xxg/w640-h400/012%20P1490606.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Aneka spills the treasure from the barrel.</div><div><br /></div><div>1st treasure taken.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirO3HYjCIb8cTsSYFcoS7VP1SrfIFC_PwRE9CZoiSELyxhAOUdx0JqtlOGzWVPhQzZsV6BMUcMCdqWMGFHnI2QP2ReeXcoAohk8k9woU4mbVtC3ZonIBMU3SMJsezOSbecI15KQzGotnq-cgxiQJcaye2s6GiJL89yNOPU9dYwAzK02XUZ8KFwc87H4g/s700/013%20P1490607.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="532" data-original-width="700" height="486" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirO3HYjCIb8cTsSYFcoS7VP1SrfIFC_PwRE9CZoiSELyxhAOUdx0JqtlOGzWVPhQzZsV6BMUcMCdqWMGFHnI2QP2ReeXcoAohk8k9woU4mbVtC3ZonIBMU3SMJsezOSbecI15KQzGotnq-cgxiQJcaye2s6GiJL89yNOPU9dYwAzK02XUZ8KFwc87H4g/w640-h486/013%20P1490607.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Akira has no opposition and discovers treasure easily.</div><div><br /></div><div>2nd Treasure taken.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlrMLNPHHsPyiargVyfOfQdJg1Tqk6gV1UGX0X21M6UofY8ugrIQmIrZnN7U7yQ5NtzXQJcBytPfraQawTzm7b_EGWMakcXwMthAD_9ynCqLVLw9Lqj04fYZeKIyEtQ6Vf0gqKU7SSafIQcp4-fvE55IAQIk1GdHxlQ1UZrSy42zj_3Jq0Kc9riMmDag/s700/014%20P1490609.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="496" data-original-width="700" height="454" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlrMLNPHHsPyiargVyfOfQdJg1Tqk6gV1UGX0X21M6UofY8ugrIQmIrZnN7U7yQ5NtzXQJcBytPfraQawTzm7b_EGWMakcXwMthAD_9ynCqLVLw9Lqj04fYZeKIyEtQ6Vf0gqKU7SSafIQcp4-fvE55IAQIk1GdHxlQ1UZrSy42zj_3Jq0Kc9riMmDag/w640-h454/014%20P1490609.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Thanda casts a shield spell over Atsuko just before she plunges into the fight with the skellie, then Thanda casts a Scatter Shot spell, hitting 4 skellies but only causing damage to one of them, it dies but unfortunately it’s not the one that Atsuko is going to fight.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgghAk9AiSgjaA4Qo8LRph5Cm-jk7A39ytwjMCfVzCIyTJIn_0sEteCbTsJBdPNCwQNmK8xGou14fV1wN0rn7sDudm-PClmGeOnJOMgXLGXbhQh-flUKcACU00DU79FKmKCW1ondaXFQfqf-q2bIP-LOWwCmVBUwtJ-FzU4BDVG2qrM9a0XzyNqu3MKKQ/s700/015%20P1490610.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="383" data-original-width="700" height="350" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgghAk9AiSgjaA4Qo8LRph5Cm-jk7A39ytwjMCfVzCIyTJIn_0sEteCbTsJBdPNCwQNmK8xGou14fV1wN0rn7sDudm-PClmGeOnJOMgXLGXbhQh-flUKcACU00DU79FKmKCW1ondaXFQfqf-q2bIP-LOWwCmVBUwtJ-FzU4BDVG2qrM9a0XzyNqu3MKKQ/w640-h350/015%20P1490610.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Atsuko faces two skellies but she is not in the slightest bit concerned…. she is Atsuko, young, lithe and a fearsome Pit Fighter in her native land. She wears her mop of red dyed hair like a badge so that all can recognise her and quiver with fear.</div><div><br /></div><div>Her one handed, double edged cutting sword “Swift-Fire” is crafted from the finest Turianian steel by the semi mythical smith “Duran” and with it in her right hand and “Punch” in her left she was never beaten in the Pit Fights. “Punch” is an armoured Gauntlet cum dagger, ground to a razor sharpness, it can be used as a small shield or buckler as well as “Punched” into an opponents unprotected places.</div><div><br /></div><div>She fights in a low, crouched, ambidextrous, two handed style sometimes known as The Scorpion, in which she is able to use the spikes in the toes of her armoured boots as a surprise sting.</div><div><br /></div><div>She wears plate armour over her torso, thighs and shins, but most onlookers are convinced this bronzed armour is just to complement her red hair, for no one has seen an enemy blade come close to her body let alone strike the armour.</div><div><br /></div><div>Besides that, she has Thanda close behind, what is there to worry about?</div><div><br /></div><div>Atsuko attacks the Skellie and kills it, 16 + fight 4 will do that almost every time.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtwxpQStSvmQ2mMsu9koGDiWMi--YIc6QfYuUH7uDZP0x5EqQPwt09ZadqTRAl8Dnk6IVFivTB9yvFJQqvwQe_YfAHKakMK2WXfNk8aCf00oTyH4PmCgXRuBNmqWGyDu1PE5BZOy4WwJ9gUKy72ToDCxkzY8tJEzwlP906Oe9ZDDeeW2s7yspVnP9Ojg/s700/016%20P1490611.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="525" data-original-width="700" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtwxpQStSvmQ2mMsu9koGDiWMi--YIc6QfYuUH7uDZP0x5EqQPwt09ZadqTRAl8Dnk6IVFivTB9yvFJQqvwQe_YfAHKakMK2WXfNk8aCf00oTyH4PmCgXRuBNmqWGyDu1PE5BZOy4WwJ9gUKy72ToDCxkzY8tJEzwlP906Oe9ZDDeeW2s7yspVnP9Ojg/w640-h480/016%20P1490611.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Prior to this photo, two skellies had charged at Thanda and Atsuko and been defeated with ease. Good dice rolls for my lot and poor ones for the Skellies.</div><div><br /></div><div>Akira in the distance has just arrived at another blue barrel but not searched it yet, as a Skellie moves close to her.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwiHUKF_u01uudDYVnb7-me-acRfLDBi0r-ZzJrNS0gjgdFnyy34Xf1fDDphk_aP0w-cSlIZdW9Nj9DGn0raGNJxuDQBJ_p25ODqopldTDeUKb-PqTN7U-S-AeUnC-9v_aTlanPMDAoOvIDIELQJ-4-MlifqzOzoAw83PuVmvBMoQ52VkIQnnVyBIC3Q/s700/017%20P1490612.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="525" data-original-width="700" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwiHUKF_u01uudDYVnb7-me-acRfLDBi0r-ZzJrNS0gjgdFnyy34Xf1fDDphk_aP0w-cSlIZdW9Nj9DGn0raGNJxuDQBJ_p25ODqopldTDeUKb-PqTN7U-S-AeUnC-9v_aTlanPMDAoOvIDIELQJ-4-MlifqzOzoAw83PuVmvBMoQ52VkIQnnVyBIC3Q/w640-h480/017%20P1490612.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Aneka has also reached her second barrel but a Skellie is hot on her heels.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7nCAWt7zEx9Le2lKQi7C6Id5XEBCFFVeNRnrSb5Di9YQRJEJeS3qn0PCb5iB9hjNPAYWaG5eALkZshVC_qnxfoW25VFXtLpYQN8uw4Z3etS8gi5uNuZiyCsgKOH6k_irI8zzw4FvwTEnk9xNfebZi9X-JDWeLFDl5VPCvXmvvHyiqWWGOMoSKGbG1HQ/s700/018%20P1490615.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="542" data-original-width="700" height="496" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7nCAWt7zEx9Le2lKQi7C6Id5XEBCFFVeNRnrSb5Di9YQRJEJeS3qn0PCb5iB9hjNPAYWaG5eALkZshVC_qnxfoW25VFXtLpYQN8uw4Z3etS8gi5uNuZiyCsgKOH6k_irI8zzw4FvwTEnk9xNfebZi9X-JDWeLFDl5VPCvXmvvHyiqWWGOMoSKGbG1HQ/w640-h496/018%20P1490615.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Thanda casts a leap spell on the Skellie closest to Aneka and puts it up on a black metal container, where it howls in frustration.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibHF-684TrPOEJrK65sb7gmFCvebCaRj76P_anmScgcnKQ6g1zmtrjIX3Tja55Yzd9zcEvvm8wWoLliRg3WgNTjCcjEs03DdmbcnFEK8BAFV7QMF6c7ma9pHUoLXGtIMXM5_HiVi6FOeRRhDTJkEm9q3feAKURmUcI8QNNoCibIVFtrb_7F6T3YbvoBQ/s700/019%20P1490614.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="470" data-original-width="700" height="430" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibHF-684TrPOEJrK65sb7gmFCvebCaRj76P_anmScgcnKQ6g1zmtrjIX3Tja55Yzd9zcEvvm8wWoLliRg3WgNTjCcjEs03DdmbcnFEK8BAFV7QMF6c7ma9pHUoLXGtIMXM5_HiVi6FOeRRhDTJkEm9q3feAKURmUcI8QNNoCibIVFtrb_7F6T3YbvoBQ/w640-h430/019%20P1490614.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Which leaves Aneka free to collect her 2nd treasure.</div><div><br /></div><div>3rd Treasure taken.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUowfDLaxiNYWUUl7KRqNB8Q-7kh_-IXu2vyduSMOVtbD7PTqYPpXMm9tjDBXTxprhWbBQaRXNpAwMgen9K2MeKwqZOCaN72vfwsseNo-aTLluSXBXdNetUd7xIfDddmdHn_Zb2ncMvHqQTxsRPbBXero2-8KgxtVH6mH_mBMeLypmEGfAyLvOGcY2pg/s700/020%20P1490616.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="525" data-original-width="700" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUowfDLaxiNYWUUl7KRqNB8Q-7kh_-IXu2vyduSMOVtbD7PTqYPpXMm9tjDBXTxprhWbBQaRXNpAwMgen9K2MeKwqZOCaN72vfwsseNo-aTLluSXBXdNetUd7xIfDddmdHn_Zb2ncMvHqQTxsRPbBXero2-8KgxtVH6mH_mBMeLypmEGfAyLvOGcY2pg/w640-h480/020%20P1490616.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>With her second action Thanda casts an Elemental Ball and blows the Skellie to little bits of bone fragments, allowing Akira to collect her second treasure as well.</div><div><br /></div><div>4th Treasure taken. They just have to exit the area to our left.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcd9dDA8eU2iLjYeLsgrEvZ8vklsIiYbbvA9v_H0sOSGxK7YcfzS4Zy9JaoLk6M4jmS5RBTTmzNHRLzMURhh9sznadKlI0SgyGwCWYwDivnpT9RrE5Gmu_0I3D1ZXiKUV000QS68gPmVkxi0Mcev4JxO1GSFLKix1RVXec3BlT98NZI2apsGWrfQvU3A/s700/021%20P1490617.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="525" data-original-width="700" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcd9dDA8eU2iLjYeLsgrEvZ8vklsIiYbbvA9v_H0sOSGxK7YcfzS4Zy9JaoLk6M4jmS5RBTTmzNHRLzMURhh9sznadKlI0SgyGwCWYwDivnpT9RrE5Gmu_0I3D1ZXiKUV000QS68gPmVkxi0Mcev4JxO1GSFLKix1RVXec3BlT98NZI2apsGWrfQvU3A/w640-h480/021%20P1490617.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>A new Skellie arrives and wishes he hadn’t as Thanda casts another Elemental Bolt and it joins its mate as a pile of smouldering bones.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTflwU0T4mX-pOKbF4hoJ3qWtY-YquYbFt2bPz1GIGF4GOPgrkWxR6xTLO2zY-kfs5IScty6qfHuSGcop6vTqTBy85PCLVEh4N2rplbvvKjTwLERrQPzdWFUaOLf6GKBh-hO0LdVaNhRZfEftx-yAPNutqVdkdBkw-ZJLnRCgtxTSjegMWsHAzwPy8YQ/s700/022%20P1490618.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="525" data-original-width="700" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTflwU0T4mX-pOKbF4hoJ3qWtY-YquYbFt2bPz1GIGF4GOPgrkWxR6xTLO2zY-kfs5IScty6qfHuSGcop6vTqTBy85PCLVEh4N2rplbvvKjTwLERrQPzdWFUaOLf6GKBh-hO0LdVaNhRZfEftx-yAPNutqVdkdBkw-ZJLnRCgtxTSjegMWsHAzwPy8YQ/w640-h480/022%20P1490618.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>The band move forward having collected all 4 treasures, Thanda in the middle surrounded by the A team, they look and feel supremely confident in their ability to reach the other side of the compound.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPsuUt3Db5JVK46yLXPWS6q2zHsl_j8Mo9aEASsyHhqkQvSxPblKIdL5TITx8VkaeFAvv6r1pMwiqGLunFxSY-gGmZaHvu7tLwxRuF_iwLZ5z4b7nblgH3JUM_xxloCklH1QAdA3rYCXffBbph2eb8YqrWH2x2IISVFAtJ1ZoG5YW1-m9n7IdywuDung/s700/023%20P1490619.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="428" data-original-width="700" height="392" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPsuUt3Db5JVK46yLXPWS6q2zHsl_j8Mo9aEASsyHhqkQvSxPblKIdL5TITx8VkaeFAvv6r1pMwiqGLunFxSY-gGmZaHvu7tLwxRuF_iwLZ5z4b7nblgH3JUM_xxloCklH1QAdA3rYCXffBbph2eb8YqrWH2x2IISVFAtJ1ZoG5YW1-m9n7IdywuDung/w640-h392/023%20P1490619.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>One final Skellie rushes in and tries to get to grips but contemptuously Thanda levitates him away onto a container top and the band leave the stage.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIXseVt4rTKD6wgnxU-JWi-MWr_inYwN27XOIez22xmn6yIvfYfgS6bofndjUOUhBh2LGzqDbo8DRdYi0AfGGEePfGN9seEGZFJADg5o7wYE-yHj65wg9rQSlcHX2wXAVaRBxaZjuSJSLXfpOzsA78krvyi4SdBSy-KP6HabrQ7LBAwBeNdfLJAn5Djg/s700/024%20P1490621.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="373" data-original-width="700" height="342" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIXseVt4rTKD6wgnxU-JWi-MWr_inYwN27XOIez22xmn6yIvfYfgS6bofndjUOUhBh2LGzqDbo8DRdYi0AfGGEePfGN9seEGZFJADg5o7wYE-yHj65wg9rQSlcHX2wXAVaRBxaZjuSJSLXfpOzsA78krvyi4SdBSy-KP6HabrQ7LBAwBeNdfLJAn5Djg/w640-h342/024%20P1490621.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>That was a completely different game to the first and pretty much down to the dice rolls, 12v8, 18v5, 16v7, 16v3, 17v11, 20v11, 20v10 all in favour of my guys.</div></div><div><br /></div><div>And now for a bit of a moan. I tried posting this twice before but yet again Blogger in it's infinite wisdom has improved itself, improved itself so that I could not figure out how to post a bit of text and a few pictures in a semi coherent manner. Why the hell do they do this. The platform is supposed to be a simple to use, something for everyone to talk about their specific bit of nonsense and yet every so often Blogger just has to screw it up. And it's all for my convenience!!!!! Why can't they just leave well alone.</div>Vagabondhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14031648950206231742noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7655102169795953648.post-3692502674629371562022-11-29T15:09:00.003+00:002022-11-29T15:09:36.617+00:00Frostgrave - Dark Alchemy - Alchemical MonstrocityIt had all been going so well…. until the explosion rocked the factory. When the dust cleared they were no longer in it. The factory that is….<div><br /></div><div>“We must have been blown through a worm hole in space or time” Rufina remarked conversationally to her 3 companions. She was a Wizards Apprentice and knew about these things.</div><div><br /></div><div>“Right…. is that so….. well you can get us back through this damned hole of yours…… and do it now”, remarked Red Sonia, in a not so conversational tone.</div><div><br /></div><div>Sonia was not known for her patience, so Rufina, thinking swiftly said “of course I can, just follow me”. That's when they heard the strangulated roar of an Alchemical Monster.</div><div><br /></div><div>“And be careful” concluded Rufina.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhggG4o26YwCIv58B7a-MX8EohRxolcZTBPMwdox4FTRmPsUN1zPJ9DLFrdbkZFBkciSYH1wowuaDTq8WF412EE02j1cQD5KgnRSnjnLGHUytw5HuELlUug40-Gi2o-b2tbdbEMwyhPffNfqZiYXyKK2JRO9pWvnMTew3WAED3GH0uHydJGyzVQJ0bE8g/s700/001%20P1490540.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="349" data-original-width="700" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhggG4o26YwCIv58B7a-MX8EohRxolcZTBPMwdox4FTRmPsUN1zPJ9DLFrdbkZFBkciSYH1wowuaDTq8WF412EE02j1cQD5KgnRSnjnLGHUytw5HuELlUug40-Gi2o-b2tbdbEMwyhPffNfqZiYXyKK2JRO9pWvnMTew3WAED3GH0uHydJGyzVQJ0bE8g/w640-h320/001%20P1490540.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>‘Where the hell are we’ Rufina thought as she looked behind her at some sort of metal fence, ‘bugger that’ she concluded ‘I have to get us out of here before Sonia loses her temper. That might be an Alchemical Monster I can hear but it’s nor half as scary as Red Sonia losing her temper. She knew this from experience, -- bad experience.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiE7kwBdwTWmDYFzPB5uMLBPHmWYpTd92RZtEkHEUqflQFn3zLqDhTbtvFTdEaC7JekIYNWc3-xlVSCFqw_cuFGLuIOmFYC2Wwk4VJGRfLF9aqh_ujE2dh9mpK5ljkMoQf2DYmgjEPdrpyad_LlzJBxL08FggXxN2jc43nVjuyiymPzWUmfeXtwpqzDBA/s700/002%20P1490542.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="700" height="412" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiE7kwBdwTWmDYFzPB5uMLBPHmWYpTd92RZtEkHEUqflQFn3zLqDhTbtvFTdEaC7JekIYNWc3-xlVSCFqw_cuFGLuIOmFYC2Wwk4VJGRfLF9aqh_ujE2dh9mpK5ljkMoQf2DYmgjEPdrpyad_LlzJBxL08FggXxN2jc43nVjuyiymPzWUmfeXtwpqzDBA/w640-h412/002%20P1490542.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>They were in some sort of futuristic compound and you might be forgiven for thinking this is because I don’t have any Frostgrave scenery but you’d be wrong.</div><div><br /></div><div>It’s because in 2017 I met Doug not EM4 and The Mad Lord Snapcase for the first time, Doug umpired a couple of Frostgrave games which I won convincingly. Well I was pretty convinced but it was late and we’d been to the Pub and sometimes we have selective memories and mine was that I won convincingly.</div><div><br /></div><div>Be that as it may, I thoroughly enjoyed the games and recently Doug started to talk about Frostgrave again and we’ve been discussing how to expand the Frostgrave Universe into different time periods and well; yes…. you’re right I have no Frostgrave scenery but that’s not going to stop me.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj__BqwuMrL-kfXnZShS_6waPuutG3kn5Ed3FcCCy3AZkKgxGJsvxWbTOlDK3OSJVNVFLqJ0W9vd0-79Dn3umPX_97UWHD357n6XLLe7O6oDJInwFzJHn3Acg9Strq_WF0J1CJMT11HlNYAo_e0UeIhfb2Pn9xiVkpOPqtti5Khxd6PmeX0mGFhEsybEw/s700/003%20P1490543.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="329" data-original-width="700" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj__BqwuMrL-kfXnZShS_6waPuutG3kn5Ed3FcCCy3AZkKgxGJsvxWbTOlDK3OSJVNVFLqJ0W9vd0-79Dn3umPX_97UWHD357n6XLLe7O6oDJInwFzJHn3Acg9Strq_WF0J1CJMT11HlNYAo_e0UeIhfb2Pn9xiVkpOPqtti5Khxd6PmeX0mGFhEsybEw/w640-h300/003%20P1490543.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>He’d become enthusiastic about doing a 3 part campaign; Dark Alchemy and I’m tagging along in his footsteps.</div><div><br /></div><div>This scenario has the adventurers trying to reach the far side of the factory and exiting through one of two doors in the far corners. You might be forgiven for thinking that the doors look suspiciously like a pair of wooden outhouses or Dunnies if you’re Australian but you should have your eyes tested because they are doors into the strange and wonderful world of Scungrave.</div><div><br /></div><div>I can’t tell you any more than that because I haven’t read the 2nd scenario and I made such a mess of reading the conditions of the first that I just may re-play it. One final caveat is that this is my first solo game of Frostgrave and as mentioned, the previous game was 5 years ago so don’t expect my rules interpretations to be anything like correct.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgL3Jx1NxwWrvurJhsZ_LQ2Pis9u-XAFYHStFgr-t31Av3wvlStvwDag6nQX4Hsz0PJogyPq2K-meu8ELvp0khlHF2LO_rYUKAv3Mo_1hsbQZHrgP20fkmGIzWRxpzHoFQCMvdSNTn5vXz4m5j1eZpS81pvcKQRY6k5IhNbcQFzbVxYkKhpFxMBOtD1YA/s700/004%20P1490541.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="320" data-original-width="700" height="292" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgL3Jx1NxwWrvurJhsZ_LQ2Pis9u-XAFYHStFgr-t31Av3wvlStvwDag6nQX4Hsz0PJogyPq2K-meu8ELvp0khlHF2LO_rYUKAv3Mo_1hsbQZHrgP20fkmGIzWRxpzHoFQCMvdSNTn5vXz4m5j1eZpS81pvcKQRY6k5IhNbcQFzbVxYkKhpFxMBOtD1YA/w640-h292/004%20P1490541.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>The lass in the hat is my Apprentice Wizard, Rufina Grey Eye, Rufina has been apprenticed to the Sorceress Thanda the Grim for many years. Thanda chose Rufina because, whilst normally she has a pair of blue eyes, when she’s angry or crossed, one of them turns grey, this is a portent of a great Elementalist apparently and hence the sobriquet Grey Eye. Rufina is waiting patiently for this portent to become anything like a reality.</div><div><br /></div><div>She is though, famed for her Commanding Right Hand, this has been known to subdue dogs, cats and small vermin and she’s hoping to extend this to larger animals and maybe even humans, at least the slow witted ones.</div><div><br /></div><div>Red Sonia, in the red tunic is Thanda’s trusted Lieutenant, Warrior and Treasure Hunter, she has fought in many battles and has many scars but few enemies. They are all dead; some are even buried.</div><div><br /></div><div>Her extraordinary strength allows her to use ‘Damage’ her famous axe either 1 or 2 handed with devastating results and she’s very adept with the throwing knife ‘Surprise’ that she keeps in a sheath strapped to her left leg.</div><div><br /></div><div>Thanda sends Sonia on these missions to make sure that all the time she’s invested in training Rufina is not wasted by her being killed in some lonely, desolate, out of the way place. A little like the one she is in now.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBx9AgbdlBRAS29_ccST7Pu9pdrbX9nXwtznRbERK6zzr20i5nrFLekGd-oN32v_zHK05F_don_NCfGxMvkc3VnZXwjmKEnEoS-fo5tPzRdBxUPgBK6tFcEUnlmFXnP8dp_qdflp0NZL9wGGQH0g7FYzkGAPjp_c02pfsjNpZKLLfCwcLKOZuNk88rwA/s700/005%20P1490547.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="413" data-original-width="700" height="378" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBx9AgbdlBRAS29_ccST7Pu9pdrbX9nXwtznRbERK6zzr20i5nrFLekGd-oN32v_zHK05F_don_NCfGxMvkc3VnZXwjmKEnEoS-fo5tPzRdBxUPgBK6tFcEUnlmFXnP8dp_qdflp0NZL9wGGQH0g7FYzkGAPjp_c02pfsjNpZKLLfCwcLKOZuNk88rwA/w640-h378/005%20P1490547.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>The strangulated roar of the Alchemical Monster recedes a little as it makes its way towards one of the exit doorways.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEWuaZddULf9zgeqBKMDUXoGk5yP4QUY-FtOaPSEvW6bgWTQ1461JvfixNm3BNzXd0ZgRAggKfr2Efrc2718K_9HNRPfARfFVaY43CXVgrXNQq5gdwOSpyX5UGkP8q5sP3pfA9E9ju2IpW-XbopCV0Hts2_kh9LO4l_61MvRr2QQ9Eg_NSzRmchN90PQ/s700/006%20P1490548.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="381" data-original-width="700" height="348" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEWuaZddULf9zgeqBKMDUXoGk5yP4QUY-FtOaPSEvW6bgWTQ1461JvfixNm3BNzXd0ZgRAggKfr2Efrc2718K_9HNRPfARfFVaY43CXVgrXNQq5gdwOSpyX5UGkP8q5sP3pfA9E9ju2IpW-XbopCV0Hts2_kh9LO4l_61MvRr2QQ9Eg_NSzRmchN90PQ/w640-h348/006%20P1490548.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>As a Gollum rat appears from the open doorway of the Dunnie of Redemption, covered in slime, it lick’s itself clean before moving on towards the same doorway as the Monster.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOlyYVWbgctqMcCh739l9sF7C25N4AxkuGmTiGdCBl3iighIlsH87DJcBod9kd_3r3GFca84FcB57iPiIeQj5yuEHmljMRK74hyN4dndgPfaALFDYmSiE7GC5mgE7w1nYZ-DcmZueWHcd2YThKHYoqnXHuZqLfFG-PWU9uk2OYEJbKCRV04Tq6UORs_A/s700/007%20P1490549.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="445" data-original-width="700" height="406" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOlyYVWbgctqMcCh739l9sF7C25N4AxkuGmTiGdCBl3iighIlsH87DJcBod9kd_3r3GFca84FcB57iPiIeQj5yuEHmljMRK74hyN4dndgPfaALFDYmSiE7GC5mgE7w1nYZ-DcmZueWHcd2YThKHYoqnXHuZqLfFG-PWU9uk2OYEJbKCRV04Tq6UORs_A/w640-h406/007%20P1490549.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Sonia ever the impetuous one, having given her orders to Ashara and Tina, rushes forward. Tending left to avoid the direction the Monster appeared to be heading she feels nothing as Rufina casts a strength spell on her, Rufina though does feel something, as a sharp jolt of negative energy flows up her arm and momentarily blinds her, damn, the spell failed.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6ssbysHOlnkBdN4DHBC_gVZcDf-lslCwTMneJ8DkVo1ex4RD6zcmOgaOowoXCrb7cgXP3nq84Uq7Ne3f0AePeUyVjaK2yGnTCK6l8V5qWghntiKp0LYjlzIqpGpeUVqnmRfVVSI_4jaMvIWY05OMhF3_f3XSrdBU4HHxHF3f5PPyMPlsRaJJdH4RwvQ/s700/008%20P1490551.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="364" data-original-width="700" height="332" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6ssbysHOlnkBdN4DHBC_gVZcDf-lslCwTMneJ8DkVo1ex4RD6zcmOgaOowoXCrb7cgXP3nq84Uq7Ne3f0AePeUyVjaK2yGnTCK6l8V5qWghntiKp0LYjlzIqpGpeUVqnmRfVVSI_4jaMvIWY05OMhF3_f3XSrdBU4HHxHF3f5PPyMPlsRaJJdH4RwvQ/w640-h332/008%20P1490551.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Tina the Swift didn’t earn her nickname by being slow. She reaches a blue barrel and pushing it over, she’s happy to discover it’s full of gold, silver and gem’s, there’s a particularly nice Blue Sapphire that she quickly secretes in the lower half of her skimpy outfit.</div><div><br /></div><div>Tina is small and exquisite; she makes you want to keep her safe, to hold her close, to protect her. Only later when your purse is missing do you wonder if maybe she could have taken it, but no, that couldn’t be – she is too fragile, too helpless and you are too much of a fool.</div><div><br /></div><div>She is one of the greatest thieves of her age. Swift as a striking Cobra, daring as a Mongoose, bold as a Tiger she is a truly dangerous adversary. Armed only with a small but wickedly sharp knife, lock picks and feminine guile she should not be underestimated, or you might not see the sunset…. ever.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7_GSvLqLVibWYE6eRthm0W5Ykgfqefnzjih3Jqad_qW3sueF684vayYALJyt19TJ1n1sEXxhZmIqYVcN00cMc7EWsSa6qVTtli6EFf522LdG-UkYPlinpLagTn3wVGes9VYuDyZ8TeyUA922hkSXYtxOhcs7c7zyhTqb56V5j1DJkecvSnCAHVB18Lw/s700/009%20P1490552.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="426" data-original-width="700" height="390" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7_GSvLqLVibWYE6eRthm0W5Ykgfqefnzjih3Jqad_qW3sueF684vayYALJyt19TJ1n1sEXxhZmIqYVcN00cMc7EWsSa6qVTtli6EFf522LdG-UkYPlinpLagTn3wVGes9VYuDyZ8TeyUA922hkSXYtxOhcs7c7zyhTqb56V5j1DJkecvSnCAHVB18Lw/w640-h390/009%20P1490552.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Sonia finds the barrel nearest to her is also full of treasure, her anger at their predicament dissolves a little. Thanda will be pleased if they return with something to show for their misadventure in the exploding factory.</div><div><br /></div><div>Sonia isn’t sure how, or why but she’s fairly certain the Apprentice had something to do with the disaster and Thanda will look to Sonia as her trusted Lieutenant to explain it and to resolve the situation. She sighs with the inequity of it all before bending to collect the bounty at her feet.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoPvWMx8anxSSbonz-wFq144P7JCrXkwe03dz9fFlmdYWlQelEQDfrQckan-qL7_LM6u_L1F_aEIq0wWC9cKj4wKteOIdWQRN-jFa9MDfgSdYrRWP1-OQcUTJMcW6k2yIJgR8VRLiSuphoWRwKfmtU_PwRFMR2zHqBJRsxfcbaXX1MQRPJts7Bm4RQgQ/s700/010%20P1490554.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="401" data-original-width="700" height="366" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoPvWMx8anxSSbonz-wFq144P7JCrXkwe03dz9fFlmdYWlQelEQDfrQckan-qL7_LM6u_L1F_aEIq0wWC9cKj4wKteOIdWQRN-jFa9MDfgSdYrRWP1-OQcUTJMcW6k2yIJgR8VRLiSuphoWRwKfmtU_PwRFMR2zHqBJRsxfcbaXX1MQRPJts7Bm4RQgQ/w640-h366/010%20P1490554.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>The Alchemical Monster and the Gollem Rat get closer to their objective as a second Gollem emerges from the inky gloom of the dunnie and spots Rufina in the distance.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdHi9_3VYzigPRHeGnG0RUSnQPQOuzt-cYfnxPWuBz5mBprNvViavrP8R5aOENquEWFNv5LN8ao7ZqnaUiR9G6rG9YKpsOr4BwA1DHN9mZ_Aq_U3-ixw07YLjGfiIzjgeowVJsKPy1kWxjyLCPf6iowjeUSBYENJLe-bTWSjWfVkJnw09OIxu-KhV7kQ/s700/011%20P1490558.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="390" data-original-width="700" height="356" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdHi9_3VYzigPRHeGnG0RUSnQPQOuzt-cYfnxPWuBz5mBprNvViavrP8R5aOENquEWFNv5LN8ao7ZqnaUiR9G6rG9YKpsOr4BwA1DHN9mZ_Aq_U3-ixw07YLjGfiIzjgeowVJsKPy1kWxjyLCPf6iowjeUSBYENJLe-bTWSjWfVkJnw09OIxu-KhV7kQ/w640-h356/011%20P1490558.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Rufina tried a second Enhance Strength spell on Sonia, and she felt the warm glow of a successful cast, wondered for a minute if she might be getting the hang of the spell then spotted the Gollem leave the Dunnie. As it cleaned itself she successfully cast a Mind Control spell on it, the poor creature could not resist and fell under her influence.</div><div><br /></div><div>This was to be the last successful spell she cast, life is sometimes unfair or then again maybe she should spend less time in the public bar at the Frog and Parrot and more time studying her spell books.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCYKsl9jTLHNVIUetWQbMuNTFbKJXjb2iU7KTivAXcD3ob1ODcCZLTJ271xn2ldklSlIp4y4adWHZ3aA9RhkOzzfDGdRKC6__ChOHDwanNqA1j2qB2etyHZ5nhKPIyZ2xfmTy7o8c8HIajCC8MirIUabgI-BGypm9izJvRrkpTy0KDnCz6vBDTreR85g/s700/012%20P1490559.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="525" data-original-width="700" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCYKsl9jTLHNVIUetWQbMuNTFbKJXjb2iU7KTivAXcD3ob1ODcCZLTJ271xn2ldklSlIp4y4adWHZ3aA9RhkOzzfDGdRKC6__ChOHDwanNqA1j2qB2etyHZ5nhKPIyZ2xfmTy7o8c8HIajCC8MirIUabgI-BGypm9izJvRrkpTy0KDnCz6vBDTreR85g/w640-h480/012%20P1490559.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Tina lost a little time collecting the treasure from her barrel, and so Ashara makes it to the next one first.</div><div><br /></div><div>Ashara is the only Archer in Thanda’s Household, and she comes from the exotic hot plains of the southlands.</div><div><br /></div><div>Learning to fire a bow before she could walk the Elders considered her proficient when she could bring down a running Gazelle at 100 paces.</div><div><br /></div><div>Her father was famous for his armour piercing arrows but he also produced specialised howling arrows, ones that would put the fear of God into her enemies, and best of all, her Uncle made slightly bent arrows. They could, reputedly, shoot round corners. This just might be late night campfire talk, stories told after a few jars of Raki, that fiery southern drink, beloved of poets, skalds and other tall tale tellers or it might be because he wasn’t a very proficient Fletcher. Truth and myth are interchangeable in the Annals of Time but I prefer the former story.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmYuoBAM0QssJ07i8R-rC3gpW54ZDD82JeLPuLIHrK_V_ixXCbq1zcqsv4FKm6Y6tH0hmo0MCihyBopqSWxzfjvCRHT6WtoVlJsWz26KCel9IBPMmOCr2IcrZ7pRN0foAnjoYkfWtro_6m1hVzurb4IqzlQmNuvFqfyYbZs4nsBBnen8ORoZmlOY0QOw/s700/013%20P1490564.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="437" data-original-width="700" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmYuoBAM0QssJ07i8R-rC3gpW54ZDD82JeLPuLIHrK_V_ixXCbq1zcqsv4FKm6Y6tH0hmo0MCihyBopqSWxzfjvCRHT6WtoVlJsWz26KCel9IBPMmOCr2IcrZ7pRN0foAnjoYkfWtro_6m1hVzurb4IqzlQmNuvFqfyYbZs4nsBBnen8ORoZmlOY0QOw/w640-h400/013%20P1490564.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Ashara discovers this barrel is also full of stones as Tina leapfrogs forward, encumbered by the big blue Sapphire.</div><div><br /></div><div>At this point you will realise if you played this Frostgrave scenario that she shouldn’t be encumbered and slowed down, also that she could fight without dropping the treasure without a penalty. This mistake of mine was to have serious repercussions later.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjg8EnmX2jUHarD1yQiPZM-_w02B3M2MEe4-YBXbIb9K81XAKh9BakRxZ45XdgHrGRhunt24uBQRsJv2F_-1sS-YtgXJZoUCImJ9At3lYfoat8bq-ZKD3qHgnNqMZSQL3zovDmlYuyWwfVdBcrP97chtcY7pP0cZidxGSkWUTAnX8DMKm8ZEgQ00AEf6g/s700/014%20P1490565.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="470" data-original-width="700" height="430" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjg8EnmX2jUHarD1yQiPZM-_w02B3M2MEe4-YBXbIb9K81XAKh9BakRxZ45XdgHrGRhunt24uBQRsJv2F_-1sS-YtgXJZoUCImJ9At3lYfoat8bq-ZKD3qHgnNqMZSQL3zovDmlYuyWwfVdBcrP97chtcY7pP0cZidxGSkWUTAnX8DMKm8ZEgQ00AEf6g/w640-h430/014%20P1490565.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>The Gollem under Rufina’s influence attacks the one guarding the doorway and dies quickly.</div><div><br /></div><div>Guard Gollem rolls 12, Influenced Gollem rolls 2, he dies.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLoaTIv4xGyNaZmNi_KKbrrcKZe6ZjAiiIXsEIXG7iBgtKuUudvjaoFtgQ0kr2UDSj6M7faE5-CWahGGv0McPL3CCizZwvP7IZPBg0kqZDXJ8dgI35YE_MoUiJPyzl0Db8Q0-swmUkAJR5rGa1mdfD0FZASUSaLdaRTpu9Z9v4R_tNJpWbkNmTD6VrhA/s700/015%20P1490566.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="343" data-original-width="700" height="314" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLoaTIv4xGyNaZmNi_KKbrrcKZe6ZjAiiIXsEIXG7iBgtKuUudvjaoFtgQ0kr2UDSj6M7faE5-CWahGGv0McPL3CCizZwvP7IZPBg0kqZDXJ8dgI35YE_MoUiJPyzl0Db8Q0-swmUkAJR5rGa1mdfD0FZASUSaLdaRTpu9Z9v4R_tNJpWbkNmTD6VrhA/w640-h314/015%20P1490566.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>An overall shot just to show Sonia on the left is close to one of the door’s, Rufina has discovered the last treasure but Tina and Ashara both encumbered by loot are making slow work of getting there.</div><div><br /></div><div>The Alchemical Monstrosity and the victorious Gollem rat are off to the right of the picture.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2m2Cbn9Ak6Qriv5Nig2ILz7JtWpIPGKFtrEV9_QaaKrjWO_jB5Q7fRLoBAayrtvcdY-pdJQyj0wuw-SrgioeEvc2e0j64O3Et6RKWlNoYN9QRuIdK_smECXlf-AqR2XdAXFO6HCluHSRqurLOFRLk1lSvw7A82BuDBbWrYMwRFhTGmKLcXtxzTGc7kA/s700/016%20P1490570.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="510" data-original-width="700" height="466" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2m2Cbn9Ak6Qriv5Nig2ILz7JtWpIPGKFtrEV9_QaaKrjWO_jB5Q7fRLoBAayrtvcdY-pdJQyj0wuw-SrgioeEvc2e0j64O3Et6RKWlNoYN9QRuIdK_smECXlf-AqR2XdAXFO6HCluHSRqurLOFRLk1lSvw7A82BuDBbWrYMwRFhTGmKLcXtxzTGc7kA/w640-h466/016%20P1490570.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Of course when Sonia tried the door it proved to be the wrong one and they have set off towards the other one. The door that’s guarded by the Monster and Gollem, they have seen the Adventurers and are moving in their direction.</div><div><br /></div><div>Rufina has been trying to cast a Shield Spell on Sonia and failed twice taking damage each time, was the Demented Demon Best Bitter at the Frog and Duck worth it she thinks to herself.</div><div><br /></div><div>Probably.</div><div><br /></div><div>Ashara is out on a limb; facing both opponents and because she can’t put the treasure down as well as fire her bow in the same turn she’s up S**t Creek.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN0kXG4nWUppO1F-iSjCSY0q-pq2CdxUkrSg9PrfUQWh1cCRSH6TA7doB10TE4iszyRT-Wjxed74SW-prXwWoofsv1m-cM81aHwyr4O6OLSGyGnZVnE3B2kZGkFeUJWFY9LH5kfsaV27qYUorQzpHbTXXolJdQTQnZaSGCe6C6jfT5otUhNu1lGcVnlA/s700/017%20P1490573.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="490" data-original-width="700" height="448" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN0kXG4nWUppO1F-iSjCSY0q-pq2CdxUkrSg9PrfUQWh1cCRSH6TA7doB10TE4iszyRT-Wjxed74SW-prXwWoofsv1m-cM81aHwyr4O6OLSGyGnZVnE3B2kZGkFeUJWFY9LH5kfsaV27qYUorQzpHbTXXolJdQTQnZaSGCe6C6jfT5otUhNu1lGcVnlA/w640-h448/017%20P1490573.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>She did the only thing a sensible archer could do….. she ran away. Then climbed onto the building and now has a commanding view of the enemy. They have rushed forward to attack our gallant band of adventurers but even though the Golem is in contact with Sonia it can’t initiate a fight.</div><div><br /></div><div>Putting their loot on the ground and drawing their weapons, Rufina’s crew awaited the onslaught.</div><div><br /></div><div>This is now the end of Turn 7</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFWuo9-4_R8IN63PCmtpRMvgfY86PVPPxOKJHaAvSCgT1lbVHPeUghwAdkvCxvy91UGwbA4fPiKrwReG5A6ptr2Aowz_2qKTSt3dQW7NQa-cTYfBXLqXSA0D0qMwrN2O69OMdPYCbJOLAhlDOSm9DASYSPeDHdQImb9Sd53Nq9WuRoY0V920cuPlL6fQ/s700/018%20P1490574.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="501" data-original-width="700" height="458" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFWuo9-4_R8IN63PCmtpRMvgfY86PVPPxOKJHaAvSCgT1lbVHPeUghwAdkvCxvy91UGwbA4fPiKrwReG5A6ptr2Aowz_2qKTSt3dQW7NQa-cTYfBXLqXSA0D0qMwrN2O69OMdPYCbJOLAhlDOSm9DASYSPeDHdQImb9Sd53Nq9WuRoY0V920cuPlL6fQ/w640-h458/018%20P1490574.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>The Alchemical Monstrosity, a large, plant type monster with tendrils who will be called Planty in future, is attacking Rufina rather than Tina.</div><div><br /></div><div>At the same time the Gollem attacks Sonia, which turned out to be the last thing it did and a new Gollem appears by the s**t house.</div><div><br /></div><div>At this point if there’s anyone reading this and understands the rules I’d appreciate them looking over the fight stats and letting me know if I made any mistakes. Or just skip this bit ;)</div><div><br /></div><div>Planty Rolls 4 Fight +4 = 8 Planty wins.</div><div><br /></div><div>Rufina Rolls 4 Fight 0 + Tina Support + 2 = 6 Loses. Armour 10 – 8 No damage. Whooo.</div><div><br /></div><div>Planty wins and remains in combat.</div><div><br /></div><div>Gollem Rolls 20 Fight +0 = 20 Loses. Armour 6 – 24 = 18 Damage - Health 1 = Dead.</div><div><br /></div><div>Sonia Rolls 18 Fight +4 Attack spell +2 = 24 Wins</div><div><br /></div><div>The Girls go next and Sonia moves forward and attacks Planty</div><div><br /></div><div>Sonia Rolls 3 Fight +4 Attack spell +2 Tina and Rufina in support +4 = 13 Loses. Armour 11 – 20 takes 9 damage.</div><div><br /></div><div>Planty Rolls 16 Fight +4 = 20 Wins</div><div><br /></div><div>Ashara shoots at Gollem.</div><div><br /></div><div>Ashara Rolls 4 Shoot +2 = 6</div><div><br /></div><div>Gollem Rolls 7 Fight +0 = 7 Wins = No Damage</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsJBlKt-y9EKiptk7IcN5vZSlUsXAfH-PWkRk9bDcLEwcbAZ5yLsHvJjO_9J7_XowQpfJ9y2vPQkUd-iPGO7C4Xg6aL7Ybg-r7RG1w0To4iwGBmuMCj3hWf4r4kJTHgSiqusXzq_v2lJ2p2k5NpCYUy0v7Zto1OkbOsXtPpSXQ954FSITiAbTN6RpiJQ/s700/019%20P1490575.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="487" data-original-width="700" height="446" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsJBlKt-y9EKiptk7IcN5vZSlUsXAfH-PWkRk9bDcLEwcbAZ5yLsHvJjO_9J7_XowQpfJ9y2vPQkUd-iPGO7C4Xg6aL7Ybg-r7RG1w0To4iwGBmuMCj3hWf4r4kJTHgSiqusXzq_v2lJ2p2k5NpCYUy0v7Zto1OkbOsXtPpSXQ954FSITiAbTN6RpiJQ/w640-h446/019%20P1490575.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Ashara decides that in spite of her famed archer skills she is better off climbing down and knocking seven bells out of the Gollem.</div><div><br /></div><div>Which she does quite successfully.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGGIjDsDYYNUqpxaHsbaJ7YYrC1kRXLhb08TSRrQLAQC3B4519S0F3IvNhOyreq5zZ90MCC7KwN4DVN797LdS0bsVCVlSgFH6cDzy81hUL-tlPznq3GCJDwWxSNhtfKwwArATxHAJ5nocg15C5AFFDVlDicck4KimOWm6wnXOszQFHyM0rsnRaZ0l6Gw/s700/020%20P1490577.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="464" data-original-width="700" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGGIjDsDYYNUqpxaHsbaJ7YYrC1kRXLhb08TSRrQLAQC3B4519S0F3IvNhOyreq5zZ90MCC7KwN4DVN797LdS0bsVCVlSgFH6cDzy81hUL-tlPznq3GCJDwWxSNhtfKwwArATxHAJ5nocg15C5AFFDVlDicck4KimOWm6wnXOszQFHyM0rsnRaZ0l6Gw/w640-h424/020%20P1490577.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Sonia continues to attack Planty.</div><div><br /></div><div>She has some sucess but eventually Planty prevails…Oh NO not Sonia!!</div><div><br /></div><div>Another Gollem erupts from the dark dank recesses of the spawning bog and attacks Ashara, she deals with it without compunction and it dies.</div><div><br /></div><div>Planty now attacks Rufina, and if Sonia can’t beat it then this is going to end badly for Rufina, is she going to be an ex Apprentice!</div><div><br /></div><div>Planty Rolls 19 Fight +4 = 23 Wins</div><div><br /></div><div>Rufina Rolls 4 Fight 0 + Tina Support + 2 = 6 Loses. Armour 10 – 23 =-13 dead. WHAT!</div><div><br /></div><div>Don’t you just hate it when you’re right.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEit9fdYXiwsJ_rqSq-4F8yECAFUM6NxmqSDj6q_LGcrlYpgGZhk_7nWH66Jxdw-RCRfw68PQux2GxZfBL1UIR3XPp0PlXkCP7zFeiVLbRU2Yh9XQxhHnCuins4gYl6puBw_OOTzSeekL4rnAv0E0UWG4X1TXZQ5ppPWkr-rguNNGmljKPE8zifGp47mXA/s700/021%20P1490578.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="537" data-original-width="700" height="490" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEit9fdYXiwsJ_rqSq-4F8yECAFUM6NxmqSDj6q_LGcrlYpgGZhk_7nWH66Jxdw-RCRfw68PQux2GxZfBL1UIR3XPp0PlXkCP7zFeiVLbRU2Yh9XQxhHnCuins4gYl6puBw_OOTzSeekL4rnAv0E0UWG4X1TXZQ5ppPWkr-rguNNGmljKPE8zifGp47mXA/w640-h490/021%20P1490578.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>With Rufina and Sonia down things are looking bleak and I was feeling quite disgruntled with the combat rules.</div><div><br /></div><div>It seems that D20’s give far too wide a variable for my taste but let’s continue and see how it pans out.</div><div><br /></div><div>Ashara turns and attacks Planty from behind as Tina supports her from the opposite side.</div><div><br /></div><div>Ashara Rolls 14 Fight +2 Tina +2 = 18 wins</div><div><br /></div><div>Planty Rolls 6 Fight +4 Loses. Armour 13 – 18 = - 5 hurt.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzehGwHNgRq24dxk448rPnPRSu_xVMddBReP0NT5tb6NdQ3lyUJ30YynG_gXiChCrGREhrqo3JKXjHJN61EzNVc4t_qPXRP_HO0lSNMe4BzEzvfXzMOOvdQ_zuMyp8GTTkLMQo3k95wY7ipLJsHxMRYtq67rrNgVCHJnpWqLdev5vo0_A_FtmybLc69w/s700/022%20P1490579.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="519" data-original-width="700" height="474" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzehGwHNgRq24dxk448rPnPRSu_xVMddBReP0NT5tb6NdQ3lyUJ30YynG_gXiChCrGREhrqo3JKXjHJN61EzNVc4t_qPXRP_HO0lSNMe4BzEzvfXzMOOvdQ_zuMyp8GTTkLMQo3k95wY7ipLJsHxMRYtq67rrNgVCHJnpWqLdev5vo0_A_FtmybLc69w/w640-h474/022%20P1490579.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Ashara attacks again…. and Planty is dead.</div><div><br /></div><div>Tina and Ashara pick up the treasure and rush to the exit door.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1CHkoJ1jOow8e2Iq8eJVDZYZSS3ikTfjnbW6qA2O3fbLhMKpOWOwkCLEJN_QpSUtDuOO4IhdI66H7E3z2e4ScgMgM56zA3kNHqQksTq4ULI9KVi17Q0-6RMJTG185uTbXHs8mXpopHkkKnoAFXjedr-7PLNMdqDVlzymsBDkUxs1Q_0g3YXkuT9TDnQ/s700/023%20P1490581.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="406" data-original-width="700" height="372" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1CHkoJ1jOow8e2Iq8eJVDZYZSS3ikTfjnbW6qA2O3fbLhMKpOWOwkCLEJN_QpSUtDuOO4IhdI66H7E3z2e4ScgMgM56zA3kNHqQksTq4ULI9KVi17Q0-6RMJTG185uTbXHs8mXpopHkkKnoAFXjedr-7PLNMdqDVlzymsBDkUxs1Q_0g3YXkuT9TDnQ/w640-h372/023%20P1490581.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>But only Tina made it.</div><div><br /></div><div>Gollem rats kept up a constant flow from the Dunnie and Ashara was defeated in the fighting around that hell hole. Tina made a break for it and has won through. Somewhere along the way she has lost the big blue sapphire and gained an even larger white crystal.</div><div><br /></div><div>Again, anyone who’s played the scenario will by shouting “you fool, she can carry any number of treasures in this game”</div><div><br /></div><div>Well if you are, just hold your horses.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhe9vCQjesTuRZtGFI3ifsCjvMkKQLU5iIXqxBbqK7aSCLf9Fe61ie5c2nG1lASF1gHF0pHrFMVjr5aEDodzrLtwY6qjHDXq9MlrIC6Wa07zALgQvRCh2MPJPrYRhEsOcZHqD3hr2iHTudpCocblDsMuFFX0ywy3hAYMtW9c8jRGrnbIpnTW89_XoBPGg/s700/024%20P1490582.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="334" data-original-width="700" height="306" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhe9vCQjesTuRZtGFI3ifsCjvMkKQLU5iIXqxBbqK7aSCLf9Fe61ie5c2nG1lASF1gHF0pHrFMVjr5aEDodzrLtwY6qjHDXq9MlrIC6Wa07zALgQvRCh2MPJPrYRhEsOcZHqD3hr2iHTudpCocblDsMuFFX0ywy3hAYMtW9c8jRGrnbIpnTW89_XoBPGg/w640-h306/024%20P1490582.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>As Tina looked back on the mayhem around the Dunnie a strange thought occurred to her.</div><div><br /></div><div>Bugger Joseph A. McCullough and his scenario, I’m one of the greatest thieves of my age. Swift as a striking Cobra, daring as a Mongoose, bold as a Tiger, I didn’t get that reputation by running off and leaving a mountain of treasure behind for some thief to take what’s rightfully mine, so she went back.</div><div><br /></div><div>Three times she went back and collected all the gems, gold, silver and in fact anything that looked valuable, including some bits of parchment and phials of strange looking liquid and piled it up by the doorway ready to escape the place.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyDJHmSEsG8IoclFLVADQkKdXZZZeRuTIOABePJmFRrjLVKuaKzJb9Oy5xc1VTFKp3FndgBacGfMNAekOaqmP8Har_kIOVXjjPEkkfXTKqtcwNwvbx3DMPDxDA7uSct7xyr5PMnyHvwJ9gp_2Om80jHUZmimtlOui-zkUUAqXHkNYz2TaSl8Qb51ZDUw/s700/025%20P1490584.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="316" data-original-width="700" height="288" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyDJHmSEsG8IoclFLVADQkKdXZZZeRuTIOABePJmFRrjLVKuaKzJb9Oy5xc1VTFKp3FndgBacGfMNAekOaqmP8Har_kIOVXjjPEkkfXTKqtcwNwvbx3DMPDxDA7uSct7xyr5PMnyHvwJ9gp_2Om80jHUZmimtlOui-zkUUAqXHkNYz2TaSl8Qb51ZDUw/w640-h288/025%20P1490584.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>On her last trip she decided to check on her fallen companions and discovered that they were all hurt but not dead as she had supposed and indeed after rolling a few dice Rufina and Ashara recovered quite well but Sonia who had taken the brunt of the fighting with Planty was quite badly hurt and would need at least some time to recover her full strength. (One game apparently)</div><div><br /></div><div>Tina also recovered what she considered her personal blue sapphire.</div><div><br /></div><div>So they were all able to exit the futuristic compound through the doorway and into an unknown future.</div><div><br /></div><div>Unknown because I haven’t read the next scenario yet and don’t know what I’ll have to do to fudge the landscape. I also need to re-roll on the treasure table 3 more times now that I know Tina should have carried all 4 tokens off the table.</div><div><br /></div><div>You may feel Tina should have checked on her companions first before collecting the treasure but I did tell you that she’s one of the greatest Thieves of her age and that reputation is earned by Thievery not Nursery.</div><div><br /></div><div>I’m going to try and do all 3 scenarios using the rules as written but will treat all characters the same as Wizards and they will gain experience etc as they go along, or not, if they don’t. Perhaps. Maybe.</div><div><br /></div><div>My apology to any purists who may be aghast that I didn’t spend weeks building the perfect terrain for the scenario but I’m afraid life is too short for that at Vagabond Manor. C’est la vie.</div><div><br /></div><div>Sorry.</div><div><br /></div><div>Rufina and her sorry band of miscreants are only novices using the Frostgrave rules, they’ve appeared in a few adventures using my version of Frostgrave earlier on this Blog if you’re interested. Look for the tag that might read Sword and Sorcery or something similar.</div><div><br /></div><div>If you got this far – Cheers.</div>Vagabondhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14031648950206231742noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7655102169795953648.post-46823514363581387232022-11-20T10:24:00.001+00:002022-11-20T10:25:33.704+00:00Argonor’s Saga – The Beekeepers Revenge.THE VIKINGS ARE COMING – well to be specific it’s actually a mixed force of Danes and West Saxons are coming and they’re raiding Swedes in Uppsala but it’s not quite as catchy as THE VIKINGS ARE COMING.<div><br /></div><div>A few years ago I played a game, The Honey Trap or the start of Argonors Saga. In the Saga, a ship load of Swedes under the command of Rolf were returning home to Uppsala after unsuccessfully raiding along the coast of Anglia and Northumbria. Rolf was desperate to recover his bad fortune, his men had taken to calling him Rolf the Unlucky, (behind his back of course), but he knew this would bring shame and disrespect to his name.</div><div><br /></div><div>He made the decision to raid the farmstead of Argonor, a famous Danish warrior and a most successful Viking.</div><div><br /></div><div>In Dane-Mark where ever men gathered they talked of Argonor the Mead Maker, the Mead Drinker, Argonor the Story Teller, the Weaver of Tales, the Man of many Threads.</div><div><br /></div><div>Argonor was famous for his wealth which came from brewing Mead a fine potent drink, which came from his bees, which were a rare commodity in 9th and 10th century Dane Mark.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjS0he5vXrZNL4Fg5fiszR2V-2RiMM9L4BcnLClfiDiBxLr5m8OJdFn3B0GZ90oK1o9CIeuEJscWYsz5VOjzBchHjUdpXYqCNl6faZbYwavgdKo5wS2WWr8NZoiwhPYsQSUgeZEhaN6ty3EFNob8eLavdCJ9hugiD4AK4Khu1-BqTr27obc9qJAPyYnUQ/s700/a%2001%20IMG_5996.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="491" data-original-width="700" height="448" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjS0he5vXrZNL4Fg5fiszR2V-2RiMM9L4BcnLClfiDiBxLr5m8OJdFn3B0GZ90oK1o9CIeuEJscWYsz5VOjzBchHjUdpXYqCNl6faZbYwavgdKo5wS2WWr8NZoiwhPYsQSUgeZEhaN6ty3EFNob8eLavdCJ9hugiD4AK4Khu1-BqTr27obc9qJAPyYnUQ/w640-h448/a%2001%20IMG_5996.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Rolf had not heeded Argonor’s warning “Raiding the bee-keeper's homestead for mead is an obvious thing to do - but I should probably warn you, that this brewer has swords, shield, mail tunic, and a Gjermundbu-helmet (and a well-sized beard to show his status as an old warrior)”</div><div><br /></div><div>Rolf’s decision was a decision, but it turned out to be a bad decision and he was lucky to escape with his life and some small quantity of Argonor’s wealth.</div><div><br /></div><div>The story grew with the passing of time into the epic tale of Argonor almost single-handedly defeating the Swedish raiding party. Their numbers grew from 1 shipload of 50 men (half of whom guarded the ship) into a small fleet and he had killed countless men that day, all the rest had fled back to their ships to escape his wrath.</div><div><br /></div><div>Argonor knew better; he knew the truth, it had been a close call, he had nearly been killed or captured himself but he reasoned there was no need to dispel these stories. No one would risk raiding his farmstead now that his reputation as a fearsome warrior was so well established but even so the raid made him uneasy. He felt the insult from that raid and it still rankled with him, he was determined to settle the score one day.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwMYMwaI1Mhjr8qC6sWlqygI-A0nlH-EGlIzurmD08SeVqLak37TSl_IIrc4tF8nbrjBw7KRfU7gHTfmpwggc3w8JThJ0yATb0xQ7F3rD71nq7BLx1DOG2QfMqQoKS9S9puv1CPw_yFDTms0RzU3lm-T7fXD38xVnIO4vTWZ6hkWDcL4XEmWpV0iz9CA/s700/a%2002%20P1490343.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="353" data-original-width="700" height="322" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwMYMwaI1Mhjr8qC6sWlqygI-A0nlH-EGlIzurmD08SeVqLak37TSl_IIrc4tF8nbrjBw7KRfU7gHTfmpwggc3w8JThJ0yATb0xQ7F3rD71nq7BLx1DOG2QfMqQoKS9S9puv1CPw_yFDTms0RzU3lm-T7fXD38xVnIO4vTWZ6hkWDcL4XEmWpV0iz9CA/w640-h322/a%2002%20P1490343.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>That raid occurred 5 years ago and he wasn’t getting any younger. Autumn was on the land and with another winter in prospect he knew time was no longer on his side, this year he must exact his revenge.</div><div><br /></div><div>The perfect opportunity arose when he was visited by two old friend’s Eorl Uthred Snappison and the adventurer Vagabond Skallagrimson.</div><div><br /></div><div>Snappison was a West Saxon and had landholdings in Defenascír, he was a seasoned warrior, prepared to stand all day in the Shield Wall, 2nd or 3rd rank preferred, unless there was a 4th, but was new to the idea of sailing to a strange land and taking what he wanted when he arrived.</div><div><br /></div><div>Skallagrimson however was a far more seasoned sailor and raider; if it wasn’t nailed down he would take it. If it was nailed down, he would use a crowbar to release it and then take it. You may have heard of a famous Viking warrior and poet – Egill Skallagrimson and if not your education is sorely lacking and you will need to read his Saga. I’m not saying Egill and Vagabond were related but they had the same attitude and father’s name.</div><div><br /></div><div>When Argonor proposed the raid, both men just smiled, nodded, and asked – when do we leave?</div><div><br /></div><div>Should you be so bored as to read the account of The Honey Trap you might be confused when you see some of the same figures appearing in this account but having decidedly different names to the previous account. You will have to put this down to your inaccurate eyesight and the fact that Saga accounts are sometimes a little unreliable, historically speaking.</div><div><br /></div><div>The full account of the Honey Trap is here <a href="https://vagabondswargamingblog.blogspot.com/2018/07/the-vikings-saga-of-argonors-bees-honey.html">https://vagabondswargamingblog.blogspot.com/2018/07/the-vikings-saga-of-argonors-bees-honey.html</a></div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOHSzLhzCDUtYcK29BJOe_QtMHksSqNS4OH682V49LR9ncinmbSr2OB6okIhyky_FUlJpG1-74_Uz-ra8MPFUICoPvx5iPut4W8kM90JyGdfzKtr0MqtNIRt0AJxUyBdtxnmD7XN3in78wiMqEfbkFthH5CyS7wZTf5q5SYQSRMeaRA7cBV9B_gH0ZTg/s700/a%2003%20P1490346.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="471" data-original-width="700" height="430" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOHSzLhzCDUtYcK29BJOe_QtMHksSqNS4OH682V49LR9ncinmbSr2OB6okIhyky_FUlJpG1-74_Uz-ra8MPFUICoPvx5iPut4W8kM90JyGdfzKtr0MqtNIRt0AJxUyBdtxnmD7XN3in78wiMqEfbkFthH5CyS7wZTf5q5SYQSRMeaRA7cBV9B_gH0ZTg/w640-h430/a%2003%20P1490346.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>The previous pictures show Rolf’s village, he was a Christian and had built a church in the Anglo-Saxon style, probably because he had an Anglo-Saxon Priest but we’ll never know the true reason. His Long House was typical of the time and reflected his status as a man of substance.</div><div><br /></div><div>Taking his lead from Argonor he’d tried to amass wealth and prestige by building hives for his bees and then taking their honey to make Mead. Sadly he was stung repeatedly the damp weather didn’t suit the bees and his mead turned sour. Then he passed the bee keeping on to Harrald, Harrald was a 7ft tall warrior, not a bee keeper and felt insulted by this demeaning task, he left Rolf s service and went to seek another Lord.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEia9pi4y6UulMFE1uo87oX00Hk_FeMPzUdGBACqI6EKIExwYBGCxweLwbug9qs0QYWtKYqnVu1NXALaw3o52jvojyW1a3zZ8LrPbMt55D-ENrnjc4Ei-Gmu4HbsAiwI5LUaa9guUo9zq579RV5LjRXS6txVAE6JigtRZQE0-og9tACiBKeq_dqEFuOOgQ/s700/a%2004%20IMG_5999.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="338" data-original-width="700" height="310" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEia9pi4y6UulMFE1uo87oX00Hk_FeMPzUdGBACqI6EKIExwYBGCxweLwbug9qs0QYWtKYqnVu1NXALaw3o52jvojyW1a3zZ8LrPbMt55D-ENrnjc4Ei-Gmu4HbsAiwI5LUaa9guUo9zq579RV5LjRXS6txVAE6JigtRZQE0-og9tACiBKeq_dqEFuOOgQ/w640-h310/a%2004%20IMG_5999.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>He travelled far to serve the only man he considered worthy of his loyalty. He went to Dane-Mark. He went to Argonor.</div><div><br /></div><div>Here, he is returning to Uppsala to take revenge on the worthless worm Rolf. Harrald Horned Helmet is the man with the horned helmet, but you probably guessed that.</div><div><br /></div><div>Vagabond Skallagrimson is the chap in the green tunic with the long flowing grey hair. (He wishes) and the prancing horse banner belongs to Argonor, who is in the distance with the double handed axe. Argonor is a canny warrior and has left a large force to guard his Dragon ship – Wave Dancer. His men forge forward but there are only 9 warriors, maybe he has become a little cautious as he’s grown older. (Or maybe it was just poor dice rolling)</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgS_NcR1WGjJ2BRHnHHJgiBMMZWYI09sX5OkJJHOAjoMQwHXFb4q5aeFh_npOEHUz0g3uaz-zk6_I-V6STr2cH_LaqqyWKdoS7iuK87MDZXJsjo3-u5afIeyjvy_Qg4vV5mUJrm0OtYryrWSGnl4xb7T3m3G1TsEWeKLfZGKMCdzGhvImtIwai2hUJQ4g/s700/a%2005%20IMG_6000.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="343" data-original-width="700" height="314" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgS_NcR1WGjJ2BRHnHHJgiBMMZWYI09sX5OkJJHOAjoMQwHXFb4q5aeFh_npOEHUz0g3uaz-zk6_I-V6STr2cH_LaqqyWKdoS7iuK87MDZXJsjo3-u5afIeyjvy_Qg4vV5mUJrm0OtYryrWSGnl4xb7T3m3G1TsEWeKLfZGKMCdzGhvImtIwai2hUJQ4g/w640-h314/a%2005%20IMG_6000.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Uthred Snappison in his purple tunic is related to royalty. Well he says it is so and it’s a brave man who will dispute the claim. The semi naked chap next to him is his faithful servant and Skáld, Fyrndagas Sweota, Old Scrotum to those who don’t read Old English.</div><div><br /></div><div>Steapa and Leofric his trusted lieutenants accompany him. (I’m not sure which is which but I think the man with 2 heads is Steapa, he’s 2nd from the right in the front line).</div><div><br /></div><div>Snappison had a better dice roll and has 15 men with him, although I thought it was 18. Snappison with only 10 fingers and thumbs has trouble once it goes above that number.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh841TTDsV_SadM24ewnXsPRTKmO1HwUxzN1jLL9__ItHmGQjVmDW1HxscwtYanlAUdLw2R6RXBrVbHoJX-ZKcUBMzBYIZcKMyDzGYw9xTiohfAUJC-TbZNXc9ZYVHKNeGpLLKAjA0gKwLXAVKFM-iD6sXHhqfFGDtd84Ix1TDJEJhNOPuy9zCHXpeXvA/s700/a%2006%20P1490348.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="479" data-original-width="700" height="438" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh841TTDsV_SadM24ewnXsPRTKmO1HwUxzN1jLL9__ItHmGQjVmDW1HxscwtYanlAUdLw2R6RXBrVbHoJX-ZKcUBMzBYIZcKMyDzGYw9xTiohfAUJC-TbZNXc9ZYVHKNeGpLLKAjA0gKwLXAVKFM-iD6sXHhqfFGDtd84Ix1TDJEJhNOPuy9zCHXpeXvA/w640-h438/a%2006%20P1490348.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>My men see the church and quicken their pace. They are here to exact revenge; Rape, Burn and Pillage are their maxims but not necessarily in that order. Today the first is going to take too much time, the third is going to be profitable and the second will be spectacular as well as roasting their chestnuts. Either of the last two items on the agenda will gain points towards a win, the first will just get you killed when more of the enemy arrive.</div><div><br /></div><div>We are playing co-operatively against the Swedes but are in competition with each other to see who gets the most fame and wealth from the raid. (Fame is burning things and wealth is obvious)<br /><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7fCgidqmWCq3Sy2NDz9cVlTmVWlpgV6DU-D9bb1gAPuT1-NS1sdseTPx62U-y8q3sv_ATkwqenAg_gAyDJVNMwvkH5rM_fhb4rRfJp4OCgp6ZDhFHLBlcT1a_A-Ew_oYWJeFLmC9k042_VbK-iNOPO11HEJb2mM1POPN3rENUBb6EUZQ33L4voesl6A/s700/a%2007%20IMG_6004.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="344" data-original-width="700" height="314" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7fCgidqmWCq3Sy2NDz9cVlTmVWlpgV6DU-D9bb1gAPuT1-NS1sdseTPx62U-y8q3sv_ATkwqenAg_gAyDJVNMwvkH5rM_fhb4rRfJp4OCgp6ZDhFHLBlcT1a_A-Ew_oYWJeFLmC9k042_VbK-iNOPO11HEJb2mM1POPN3rENUBb6EUZQ33L4voesl6A/w640-h314/a%2007%20IMG_6004.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Snappison leads his men along the lane into the heart of Rolf’s village. This lane is working like a funnel and we all know what happens at the end of a funnel.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhz7g1Oi_gCF4PfwMxfUABs74_jfGv7qKRj2QX2fogdoIegc6gZXhJFnpVgcIKeK9Khjk3S7O0gNkb1LuSZ8YBm15dC1K-2bB5HI7abPInWBsG69hEYBdo7_UDn03FC1ClI1_xL_83uxMo9S4EAgm3OMpEdknum1UjFlMv-GwTJEauh7fL525cJaAmTEw/s700/a%2008%20P1490353.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="525" data-original-width="700" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhz7g1Oi_gCF4PfwMxfUABs74_jfGv7qKRj2QX2fogdoIegc6gZXhJFnpVgcIKeK9Khjk3S7O0gNkb1LuSZ8YBm15dC1K-2bB5HI7abPInWBsG69hEYBdo7_UDn03FC1ClI1_xL_83uxMo9S4EAgm3OMpEdknum1UjFlMv-GwTJEauh7fL525cJaAmTEw/w640-h480/a%2008%20P1490353.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>There are only 5 men in the homestead, Rolf is somewhere about, but I believe he was asleep in his long house.</div><div><br /></div><div>These men are seasoned warriors; they take one look at the number of Saxons coming down the lane and….</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHNUCUVsyTnzqusmCXj7pm5ZyDyIfAvMTq4ilsEQlrVFbqCDTZ6ehzD0O6qvy5hshWZr41YmtVA6EcRr3r5uhq0HUqFPHGxWca0ZH9DFmY8W_PrFzDgcTqUB0kjKs4EMoOi8efVuTTGBpNIpafHbk3-NFaaui7vYS5QgnYBA0ZoAyEXknISXrLWJIrYg/s700/a%2009%20P1490351.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="448" data-original-width="700" height="410" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHNUCUVsyTnzqusmCXj7pm5ZyDyIfAvMTq4ilsEQlrVFbqCDTZ6ehzD0O6qvy5hshWZr41YmtVA6EcRr3r5uhq0HUqFPHGxWca0ZH9DFmY8W_PrFzDgcTqUB0kjKs4EMoOi8efVuTTGBpNIpafHbk3-NFaaui7vYS5QgnYBA0ZoAyEXknISXrLWJIrYg/w640-h410/a%2009%20P1490351.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Charge forward, blocking the funnel.</div><div><br /></div><div>They hold the line between 2 daub and wattle dwellings, the fight is long and tough. The shield walls push back and forth but no one gains the advantage. Rolf heard the clash of steel and rushing from his slumber hasn’t had time to don his shirt and so fights Berserk, swinging his large club one handed.</div><div><br /></div><div>Snappison caught by surprise, fights in the front rank, his long bushy beard swaying left to right as he flails about him with his long sword, Serpent Breath. He tries to reach Rolf but the press of men is too great and he concentrates on staying alive and killing the man in front of him.</div><div><br /></div><div>Steapa waves his 2nd head in the face of one of Jarl Rolf’s men; this doesn’t ingratiate him with the man.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5ryKtZQnLJjwG0QEeGMNkculQRBbsMEwo58QAil5V_LV5YWcf96Upd46vvPBouuad3qVWKPodV5F_fZbhFChLfb_VmqSZLGitGh3tLW_wOgcK5DaUlRopcVgX1qG3GbR6Dyt4yqlCCMfaQFcJwzVoVQ9rTn-lej49yLjmMdaYu0Ex9e939npPyHEZRA/s700/a%2010%20P1490355.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="414" data-original-width="700" height="378" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5ryKtZQnLJjwG0QEeGMNkculQRBbsMEwo58QAil5V_LV5YWcf96Upd46vvPBouuad3qVWKPodV5F_fZbhFChLfb_VmqSZLGitGh3tLW_wOgcK5DaUlRopcVgX1qG3GbR6Dyt4yqlCCMfaQFcJwzVoVQ9rTn-lej49yLjmMdaYu0Ex9e939npPyHEZRA/w640-h378/a%2010%20P1490355.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>With their eye on the prize, they are here to loot and burn not fight, Argonor’s small force climbs over the fence beside the church and prepare to enter.</div><div><br /></div><div>Will the door be locked and barred – they won’t know until they try it.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqjGEeowBLklvUexaIsAIVrYjn_V3lmd4RwEa3Sk3gvsF6r0vgao5xNtWdHqLEWLSZ64hTHqBaVsfBU5DeCvrgPH6elBcoShZhWoL2itnPFKatTMxhYW5rrrdS3_0I2RYp966x3kuWkUV3r0xI-JF20CmRPhaOe8Z3M0SGXPlm40EvuDDZ_2mewGlAgg/s700/a%2011%20P1490358.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="410" data-original-width="700" height="374" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqjGEeowBLklvUexaIsAIVrYjn_V3lmd4RwEa3Sk3gvsF6r0vgao5xNtWdHqLEWLSZ64hTHqBaVsfBU5DeCvrgPH6elBcoShZhWoL2itnPFKatTMxhYW5rrrdS3_0I2RYp966x3kuWkUV3r0xI-JF20CmRPhaOe8Z3M0SGXPlm40EvuDDZ_2mewGlAgg/w640-h374/a%2011%20P1490358.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>The press of men between the houses is so tight that it might appear as if nothing has happened but Steapa is down, split in two by the man who didn’t like a 2nd head waved in his direction and one of Rolf’s men has also fallen as the fight continues.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyIUFn65hYQ2BzNapCOzSbqoCw7XIPDRGTGqXjv4V8LzQZzs1u1kCRx6Q2sV6INVnmHdfgoDhHjKq12gLOCf0UnTfjFor1SiaD1d5RNvccf2WnwJtAw1z02crXVkyGoQ21EY-vsmDMxmCIjcbnpcVhVZ8cNiFuHoYI8DWAo6r1accNzj0EWGL9JDyuIg/s700/a%2012%20P1490362.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="524" data-original-width="700" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyIUFn65hYQ2BzNapCOzSbqoCw7XIPDRGTGqXjv4V8LzQZzs1u1kCRx6Q2sV6INVnmHdfgoDhHjKq12gLOCf0UnTfjFor1SiaD1d5RNvccf2WnwJtAw1z02crXVkyGoQ21EY-vsmDMxmCIjcbnpcVhVZ8cNiFuHoYI8DWAo6r1accNzj0EWGL9JDyuIg/w640-h480/a%2012%20P1490362.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>As Argonor’s men exit the church some of them are carrying small but valuable items of loot. There’s no sign of Harrald Horned Helmet, who must be busy gnawing on some poor priests bones or maybe collecting some larger treasure from within the church.</div><div><br /></div><div>Vagabond Skallagrimson looks on in disbelief, how can 6 Swedes hold up 15 Saxons. Then he realises, “how can they not”. Swedes are Northerners, forged in Ice and Fire, they’re a force to be reckoned with; the Saxons from Wessex are just softie southerners.</div><div><br /></div><div>The reality is that the Vikings are veterans of countless fights, skirmishes and battles, even harking back as far as WRG 4th edition but the West Saxons are in their first fight, the paint on their shields is barely dry. It’s no wonder they are looking a little shaky and unsure how this form of warfare should be played, besides, we are using my rules.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiguUdiCVmNo7ngm8wfptA97nBU878a7pbrvwOzwlUUiicPsmo1ThniGr599qYuuxxQqZQPz_RgN59Gbh4tNMTl7_W_JWkowMMvuR3J96hw2cpZwzr7t75nZT10hViN5Hkr444FkuboL2CfaqqnbNI_podqkNYaKUUqB8bgTbP8l3tlNVexZY1bBGqvcQ/s700/a%2013%20IMG_0429.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="488" data-original-width="700" height="446" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiguUdiCVmNo7ngm8wfptA97nBU878a7pbrvwOzwlUUiicPsmo1ThniGr599qYuuxxQqZQPz_RgN59Gbh4tNMTl7_W_JWkowMMvuR3J96hw2cpZwzr7t75nZT10hViN5Hkr444FkuboL2CfaqqnbNI_podqkNYaKUUqB8bgTbP8l3tlNVexZY1bBGqvcQ/w640-h446/a%2013%20IMG_0429.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Snappison was so busy fighting in the front rank that he lost control of the action. Eventually; pushing his opponent back he realised that most of his men in reserve are just shouting encouragement to the front rank fighters.</div><div><br /></div><div>Get round the back of these turnip eaters he shouted at them and reluctantly his 2nd 3rd rank moved to outflank the Swedes. Climbing two fences slowed them down a little and they still haven’t got into place yet.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvB1RKxGdcqbND_4dUwgYVjhY4JBszPw4ECuNuSCX81QQJYcGPdAkeRQglZiaR63EpasQ917UtKM9aF5wlAkLekXilPN3zMuuXyG4VkiRCfaKAiCNA6p_gg0HuJm0b4s5oURvHrq9G2hLVwMWOiZqNq6APh9tdw9M_EvwY79c23rD5XkMRcjg2PRnthw/s700/a%2014%20P1490367.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="451" data-original-width="700" height="412" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvB1RKxGdcqbND_4dUwgYVjhY4JBszPw4ECuNuSCX81QQJYcGPdAkeRQglZiaR63EpasQ917UtKM9aF5wlAkLekXilPN3zMuuXyG4VkiRCfaKAiCNA6p_gg0HuJm0b4s5oURvHrq9G2hLVwMWOiZqNq6APh9tdw9M_EvwY79c23rD5XkMRcjg2PRnthw/w640-h412/a%2014%20P1490367.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Before the men of Wessex can reach the action there’s a roar of “With me” from Argonor and the four of them crash into the rear of the Swedish line, the men of Uppsala stand no chance and those that are not slain surrender. “Good to see you at last” puffs Snappison as some of his men disappear into a small hut looking for loot but the main body can be seen in the distance about to enter the Long House.</div><div><br /></div><div>I think they finally realized that this is a raid for loot and glory, not a long hard slog against determined foes.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiFHHUkqA47m1Fd6Ro3uRV697gnIJGKSBKID1nEV4rcYx5UsVavJGIqph9NALDroPLqAeyDpSV-mtuDyRXyoq4RfPHyFoQk73ITyrfgo9T57VKlAPZy0HZ2gbgsHvIFWxyasc_8WRZNEAQeF91R80TRh8c7Wk6R5cjYa-gFuwjxC-AhKFhG2-uNVi0Nw/s700/a%2015%20P1490368.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="429" data-original-width="700" height="392" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiFHHUkqA47m1Fd6Ro3uRV697gnIJGKSBKID1nEV4rcYx5UsVavJGIqph9NALDroPLqAeyDpSV-mtuDyRXyoq4RfPHyFoQk73ITyrfgo9T57VKlAPZy0HZ2gbgsHvIFWxyasc_8WRZNEAQeF91R80TRh8c7Wk6R5cjYa-gFuwjxC-AhKFhG2-uNVi0Nw/w640-h392/a%2015%20P1490368.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Harrald Horned Helmet finally leaves the church following the men with the loot. He leaves it burning fiercely, he’s obviously read the scenario conditions and a burned out church is worth a lot of points, also he’s a devout Pagan.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifz5zKwe3dLj-6u1rJ3pY-MPXA9ALl7gkTD7zbCPrj-8gw339HxUO3BN_RZCU1HQBPu7W2k48StRJhY9hgqKLu-vwuuDG6jl-Zd9rU1OdD8TsDhsMT1H9be9KoPiiEStpOiY53L3M2WMkmuT6T--nR7LQh4x4itH0UrKNUdMyFluYHizWDGKFWK5l-mw/s700/a%2016%20P1490369.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="700" height="412" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifz5zKwe3dLj-6u1rJ3pY-MPXA9ALl7gkTD7zbCPrj-8gw339HxUO3BN_RZCU1HQBPu7W2k48StRJhY9hgqKLu-vwuuDG6jl-Zd9rU1OdD8TsDhsMT1H9be9KoPiiEStpOiY53L3M2WMkmuT6T--nR7LQh4x4itH0UrKNUdMyFluYHizWDGKFWK5l-mw/w640-h412/a%2016%20P1490369.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Two of Snappison’s men are carrying sacks of grain from the hut, the 3rd chap wasn’t strong enough to lift his sack or barrel and was left behind, grunting and sweating to try again.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg84RoNzAZvuuxYqxQ-SC6A3jPDc_Ve4KYYTWgA7IEhGRGblXzvsXyke58xTnbPHF2GR2ZcGx0eokNxbXTSm78jYiClENaw_c_f_z9KVR7UE5z4JyZidxECW74X9VmGUHWmuZzH9rrHJ_fHuzaX3PfLmtFX2IS42JMPVWFZ1rlj85VKxT5GDNSEPiS6-A/s700/a%2017%20IMG_0434.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="388" data-original-width="700" height="354" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg84RoNzAZvuuxYqxQ-SC6A3jPDc_Ve4KYYTWgA7IEhGRGblXzvsXyke58xTnbPHF2GR2ZcGx0eokNxbXTSm78jYiClENaw_c_f_z9KVR7UE5z4JyZidxECW74X9VmGUHWmuZzH9rrHJ_fHuzaX3PfLmtFX2IS42JMPVWFZ1rlj85VKxT5GDNSEPiS6-A/w640-h354/a%2017%20IMG_0434.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>The largest group of Saxon’s are now in the Long House and totally lose control.</div><div><br /></div><div>Not shown for those of a sensitive disposition or who are easily offended but the women of the house prove more enticing than the wealth all around them. Snappison’s men are going to spend a long time before they can get on with the main job of looting and burning.</div><div><br /></div><div>Unknown to them, the men of the Homestead are starting to return from the fields, in dribs and drabs at first but once Rolf’s neighbours arrive this small stream of men would become an unstoppable river.<br /><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhG1OEtedQO0ZNEa4c-G_oJIKXHvdVbY870zuxsoysvxUuTaVCorJkuvAPLfN-6cPYi0W-qfNUC9aUDLNlAyS8pzEC7DCXtFJRo8jyMiTiO5HMqD7O4yaqflwSwdGziZdskZpLoD9aHU-OJENp56t5kp7ml6aVnNe7e0f4qCS7wHY1Loa171Qcz3e9utg/s700/a%2018%20P1490374.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="357" data-original-width="700" height="326" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhG1OEtedQO0ZNEa4c-G_oJIKXHvdVbY870zuxsoysvxUuTaVCorJkuvAPLfN-6cPYi0W-qfNUC9aUDLNlAyS8pzEC7DCXtFJRo8jyMiTiO5HMqD7O4yaqflwSwdGziZdskZpLoD9aHU-OJENp56t5kp7ml6aVnNe7e0f4qCS7wHY1Loa171Qcz3e9utg/w640-h326/a%2018%20P1490374.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Argonor and Snappison’s men are scattered throughout the settlement, the ones in the Long House out of control and the lad who has gone into the hut on the right also starts making eyes and some poor Uppsala maiden and will be a while before he can get on with looting properly.</div><div><br /></div><div>In the hut on the left the weakling has still not managed to lift the barrel of beer onto his shoulder. Maybe he should have drunk some of it to lighten the load.</div><div><br /></div><div>Middle left Snappison himself emerges from a hut carrying a small barrel of mead, lighter and more valuable than beer.</div><div><br /></div><div>The various looters are slowly making their way to the ship but are dismayed to see in the distance, the banner of Red Orm, the first of Rolf’s neighbours to arrive in force.</div><div><br /></div><div>The raider’s initial advantage in numbers is slowly eroding, have the men of Wessex lost too much time fighting and now womanising? The scales of fate are starting to balance on a knife edge.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEic81ozuxlXFDlI520E2xZr9bSb-SsZVV_xPGUNM5k-VJBzoFT6kttbTY3a0mE8YblxYO-pgFhrtQyPTWiHFTfg4YrnSh1BxPKT_ermCDRJhquTJdy-RfLRqrrYkxFTQ7EeO5u7j9KXWuJIIFTujV3UiVR2DVdEyJyYIDJ60udRaBWPPC86pnFxijd86w/s700/a%2019%20%20P1490382.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="568" data-original-width="700" height="520" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEic81ozuxlXFDlI520E2xZr9bSb-SsZVV_xPGUNM5k-VJBzoFT6kttbTY3a0mE8YblxYO-pgFhrtQyPTWiHFTfg4YrnSh1BxPKT_ermCDRJhquTJdy-RfLRqrrYkxFTQ7EeO5u7j9KXWuJIIFTujV3UiVR2DVdEyJyYIDJ60udRaBWPPC86pnFxijd86w/w640-h520/a%2019%20%20P1490382.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Rolf (Lime green shield) has surrendered and is under guard. Harrald Horned Helmet has gone into the Long House, a man of ice he is not swayed by the debauchery going on in there and immediately starts to light a fire. His intention is obviously to burn the place down.</div><div><br /></div><div>I did say he’d read the scenario rules and a burning Long House is almost worth as many points as a burning church.</div><div><br /></div><div>Seeing Orm in the distance has galvanised Snappison (Purple cloak, Black plume) and he dropped his barrel of mead to join with his men. The chaps with the barrel and sack are Argornor’s men and they know better than to drop loot until it’s time to RUN.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBonGmvewjIKE5uw4s8axNQFQ-csHbAtsVBEOSWYhmBx9jtmTD8aCDFejVE_ZEVef0ys-iNdmfzmeQ17S7mhxtAmRAwqnEYD0FegAwFpBWXyOnoQ4Ow0b3hvvfYctiR7loENP_WvXnFpfoIKiibP93rid3eIWsnkAiIMoq1cTozm88sOYjlwEsCpkw9w/s700/a%2020%20P1490379.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="467" data-original-width="700" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBonGmvewjIKE5uw4s8axNQFQ-csHbAtsVBEOSWYhmBx9jtmTD8aCDFejVE_ZEVef0ys-iNdmfzmeQ17S7mhxtAmRAwqnEYD0FegAwFpBWXyOnoQ4Ow0b3hvvfYctiR7loENP_WvXnFpfoIKiibP93rid3eIWsnkAiIMoq1cTozm88sOYjlwEsCpkw9w/w640-h426/a%2020%20P1490379.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Argonor’s Long Ship, Wave Dancer pulls into the beach. Those of you with poor eyesight might think that is Snappison’s glasses case but you would be wrong, it is indeed a shapely 44 oared long ship the scourge of the North Sea and Argonor’s delight. Well one of his delights!</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBefuVBg6ydit-ODeJJvx-ViC6YngWfD6gr__YGIkHFyzXyF6gDFEVCemUX7Gnq5V_o05X-QBrcC3CuX1kzEfPvR-JMiMZtQksvazbIyUX2W8IkuNbctesNfaVliww8bLFpWxj_h5JsVSEM_dL-4ikj8DLhzZi5JYuU5-w8gX1M59K_720RoaSgGtH3Q/s700/a%2021%20P1490372.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="525" data-original-width="700" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBefuVBg6ydit-ODeJJvx-ViC6YngWfD6gr__YGIkHFyzXyF6gDFEVCemUX7Gnq5V_o05X-QBrcC3CuX1kzEfPvR-JMiMZtQksvazbIyUX2W8IkuNbctesNfaVliww8bLFpWxj_h5JsVSEM_dL-4ikj8DLhzZi5JYuU5-w8gX1M59K_720RoaSgGtH3Q/w640-h480/a%2021%20P1490372.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Unconcerned by Orm’s arrival Argonor leads some of his men into the homesteads storehouse. There should be plenty to steal in there or is the word liberate, I’m not sure.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj32UulvyynOr8HkNwdIB8glkHodoWVAD0D7HNklozOjusAg73r5SPlgPHfd0S9MRMoYif2b9Jbi-17PqaZGBmhMVG1ZkeDQeQSQrS8rBEozyehgT7mQ97rCwKKMWWhurE3huTM3Nd_ygyhKdbgj4glHQ6jD6wx6egZ1FXtYFeI784fXXQnrJd99ZaMFw/s700/a%2022%20IMG_6009.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="421" data-original-width="700" height="384" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj32UulvyynOr8HkNwdIB8glkHodoWVAD0D7HNklozOjusAg73r5SPlgPHfd0S9MRMoYif2b9Jbi-17PqaZGBmhMVG1ZkeDQeQSQrS8rBEozyehgT7mQ97rCwKKMWWhurE3huTM3Nd_ygyhKdbgj4glHQ6jD6wx6egZ1FXtYFeI784fXXQnrJd99ZaMFw/w640-h384/a%2022%20IMG_6009.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Harrald has managed to get a small fire going but not enough to set the damp thatch ablaze. The chaps making eyes at the maidens have run out of steam and are ready to obey their Lord’s angry shouts to “get the hell out of there”. Red Orm has arrived and charged straight at Snappison’s hastily drawn up shield wall.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidg_DTmEAWgHinQfGLd9ygMabmouHOdWpYM26Uip2LidNvdehttdQ3Z4Ck8M_XN0_NbyjAfzzJltVPlv1UaYtj8mdd_y6qxFQG0uP3yUkHRbIYyYpmZVl_HGhXZUrtkEJDLcPQFhCJThrin2Fquo0CrzbstfVipflOl_vxbd6zad_YKt4v1b797i_TJQ/s700/a%2023%20P1490376.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="525" data-original-width="700" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidg_DTmEAWgHinQfGLd9ygMabmouHOdWpYM26Uip2LidNvdehttdQ3Z4Ck8M_XN0_NbyjAfzzJltVPlv1UaYtj8mdd_y6qxFQG0uP3yUkHRbIYyYpmZVl_HGhXZUrtkEJDLcPQFhCJThrin2Fquo0CrzbstfVipflOl_vxbd6zad_YKt4v1b797i_TJQ/w640-h480/a%2023%20P1490376.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Not able to carry the sacks and barrels from the Storehouse in time, Olaf has been ordered to set the rest on fire.</div><div><br /></div><div>He’s also read the scenario notes.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSE9zO_EekgHGkpc3UQhD6a-cWdO0xEMStXBJ6H5Bd3ydRNa74ockRVTX_n5OoUVbiD9tSwFMKgOuT8L7apOgSWqL032dcrgO9Ipbzg21T7AFoG6JAinK5xZj-PMncbYC7y9tP-oDYDatVIiMTov6Cv1hNqqNI_5aRcp6LhduK6UPUPiSNsSewIjgRGw/s700/a%2024%20P1490383.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="479" data-original-width="700" height="438" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSE9zO_EekgHGkpc3UQhD6a-cWdO0xEMStXBJ6H5Bd3ydRNa74ockRVTX_n5OoUVbiD9tSwFMKgOuT8L7apOgSWqL032dcrgO9Ipbzg21T7AFoG6JAinK5xZj-PMncbYC7y9tP-oDYDatVIiMTov6Cv1hNqqNI_5aRcp6LhduK6UPUPiSNsSewIjgRGw/w640-h438/a%2024%20P1490383.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>He’s also luckier than Harrald and the thatch catches fire immediately.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirYQv1qqG7BofQKx957m1YpJgNPXk07H65Le-xul3_Pt3BmVI6IP1ETV991TIcH-pabMLH11G-DtYfZd6LiQl75ZZQa0NzVZYo9huU-Gxt-HV0H1PiX5MN5vwb4PAuFJxtyUoz3wq7obGPtxIgNMkSR0QZGsOlSp-CPx9k1ERFTklgoq5KTO9VFYZC1g/s700/a%2025%20P1490384.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="435" data-original-width="700" height="398" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirYQv1qqG7BofQKx957m1YpJgNPXk07H65Le-xul3_Pt3BmVI6IP1ETV991TIcH-pabMLH11G-DtYfZd6LiQl75ZZQa0NzVZYo9huU-Gxt-HV0H1PiX5MN5vwb4PAuFJxtyUoz3wq7obGPtxIgNMkSR0QZGsOlSp-CPx9k1ERFTklgoq5KTO9VFYZC1g/w640-h398/a%2025%20P1490384.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Meanwhile more neighbours arrive and make their way through the drying hayricks nearest us.</div><div><br /></div><div>If they’re quick they will cut off the raiders from their ship.</div><div><br /></div><div>Just as worrying is another small group advancing from the far right, out of sight in this picture but they’re forming the classic pincer movement, that knife edge is getting sharper.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXkiODS7G7N5yMxgV4Ut-HHqkaRN0_sxnr2O8xSxqUOwpc8_AdXzj5ScOzC-U0HAcQ-mTxIWLfRELLGEmiE6qEC62hdr-CuAH_E5cXmF_cGxkajnMuw4qfCncSwtFV4milKQ4mV62uvz6Da-bwGMMRLY-qJ1fIYQqsuCgL5uNc2MgQ6YAd3eaTvFrlGg/s700/a%2026%20P1490388.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="525" data-original-width="700" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXkiODS7G7N5yMxgV4Ut-HHqkaRN0_sxnr2O8xSxqUOwpc8_AdXzj5ScOzC-U0HAcQ-mTxIWLfRELLGEmiE6qEC62hdr-CuAH_E5cXmF_cGxkajnMuw4qfCncSwtFV4milKQ4mV62uvz6Da-bwGMMRLY-qJ1fIYQqsuCgL5uNc2MgQ6YAd3eaTvFrlGg/w640-h480/a%2026%20P1490388.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>The fight by the Long House is fierce but the lines fall back to reform and taunt each other; the dead and wounded have been pushed aside to create room for the fighting men.</div><div><br /></div><div>Snappison is wondering if he should have gone on holiday to Weston Supermare rather than visit his friend in Dane-Mark.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPRcPEXs7ZHw2oqLTIusTR4xk5QrKNqVJCeU96smUra0_nXgKXe7_8cKGukzmkfoVOLLF8XAUc069xd0PhH6dIgeGJTawKWtjzEgKU4eEwddmYmE-kZjucl8l0dx6lp1XLxFinacK9qsWM3y6fLA6DqB120RZQRcRa_O0Q9FxuTq7uXd5VOL4o39cJ0g/s700/a%2027%20IMG_0438.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="493" data-original-width="700" height="450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPRcPEXs7ZHw2oqLTIusTR4xk5QrKNqVJCeU96smUra0_nXgKXe7_8cKGukzmkfoVOLLF8XAUc069xd0PhH6dIgeGJTawKWtjzEgKU4eEwddmYmE-kZjucl8l0dx6lp1XLxFinacK9qsWM3y6fLA6DqB120RZQRcRa_O0Q9FxuTq7uXd5VOL4o39cJ0g/w640-h450/a%2027%20IMG_0438.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Harrald is having no luck with his fire but the raiders in the house are making their way out, empty handed but thankful not to be caught in the firestorm that Harrald will undoubtedly cause – eventually.</div><div><br /></div><div>The Skáld Fyrndagas Sweota is among the fallen in the shield wall, who will sing songs of Snappison’s great deed’s if there’s no Skáld?</div><div><br /></div><div>Probably no-one the way things are going. All of the West Saxons have dropped their loot so they can move faster and fight harder, the Danes aren’t giving up theirs so easily, there’s no points for dead Swedes.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7FbEqAnzhFBrQzQFVu2Acz7HdgAktSncrp5dZZvgoNSDgNZPjkGuYyi5YqJpKc2PDEUKXg5EpeJvL9mgpDTBR6xRwwKpx2Cv5b8u4awViJrNnR4HiFKgWrdU0Ry2lvxwa5wd8uuGomW-i8j0XCEUtCkjeNOLLH_3CQ-3a98i_d4shJqEhM24ySMhL6A/s700/a%2028%20P1490387.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="467" data-original-width="700" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7FbEqAnzhFBrQzQFVu2Acz7HdgAktSncrp5dZZvgoNSDgNZPjkGuYyi5YqJpKc2PDEUKXg5EpeJvL9mgpDTBR6xRwwKpx2Cv5b8u4awViJrNnR4HiFKgWrdU0Ry2lvxwa5wd8uuGomW-i8j0XCEUtCkjeNOLLH_3CQ-3a98i_d4shJqEhM24ySMhL6A/w640-h426/a%2028%20P1490387.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>The warriors coming through the hayfield have cut off two of Argonor’s men, these two are still carrying loot from the church but it looks as if they will have to fight for their lives in a minute. The other small warband is approaching from our right.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDXagwTNSlTVSxQ4kMs810ccJyxFelHyulYwzdoa4t9VcyU9dlPyPcyByfGHEaXJqTxDUSFceZxVJdqIjKQ0kz0yvLVibx-d2zA7fm0n8yTD8eZjNOzyBY6FAkjck2EsFEJRfuUyxyvJsMom5I2rBY5WFKx0aF2jKeXNKQsv9bljULXZxHNlBWeMphfg/s700/a%2029%20IMG_0436.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="345" data-original-width="700" height="316" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDXagwTNSlTVSxQ4kMs810ccJyxFelHyulYwzdoa4t9VcyU9dlPyPcyByfGHEaXJqTxDUSFceZxVJdqIjKQ0kz0yvLVibx-d2zA7fm0n8yTD8eZjNOzyBY6FAkjck2EsFEJRfuUyxyvJsMom5I2rBY5WFKx0aF2jKeXNKQsv9bljULXZxHNlBWeMphfg/w640-h316/a%2029%20IMG_0436.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Just a dramatic shot of the same action. Sorry – we had a surfeit of pictures.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXc_wudZALdiOn82jGoYObUUXbcxb-JwKYrIu2yyf1K2Lff45lUQNfLv3ZwS0LHLCTMD-cbeyzT-9zTyw3lMG28067nIj3aS2rpxkFXB8sQnCxKFUHZQJmXLxrOb3B3Wvx7obgxtN_AiJqe6cTzOut5AKI6xJxiYAhtp95oit8lf_bi4fW6hFuuxJ04A/s700/a%2030%20IMG_6019.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="260" data-original-width="700" height="238" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXc_wudZALdiOn82jGoYObUUXbcxb-JwKYrIu2yyf1K2Lff45lUQNfLv3ZwS0LHLCTMD-cbeyzT-9zTyw3lMG28067nIj3aS2rpxkFXB8sQnCxKFUHZQJmXLxrOb3B3Wvx7obgxtN_AiJqe6cTzOut5AKI6xJxiYAhtp95oit8lf_bi4fW6hFuuxJ04A/w640-h238/a%2030%20IMG_6019.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>There are many more of the Uppsala men arriving, drawn no doubt by the smoke from the burning buildings.</div><div><br /></div><div>They are still a long way from the raiders but closing fast.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsFMUQQH8a5T2T6WrSNd6_Z6YECYfZ1t_DUxSVl4VaB9K8dNevzcxBPBSjBw7HtdsVochVpjur3ljXlPwlJcjWyDhLKOEHm5scvlochndtV5aYw0NIxDTL8ZaD3MKXVf14gf0ZiEIzILTmnqwMoYFcQERgtxGDMoVE8A5e74MECEgs16YLPKJNGdpeSA/s700/a%2031%20P1490397.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="525" data-original-width="700" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsFMUQQH8a5T2T6WrSNd6_Z6YECYfZ1t_DUxSVl4VaB9K8dNevzcxBPBSjBw7HtdsVochVpjur3ljXlPwlJcjWyDhLKOEHm5scvlochndtV5aYw0NIxDTL8ZaD3MKXVf14gf0ZiEIzILTmnqwMoYFcQERgtxGDMoVE8A5e74MECEgs16YLPKJNGdpeSA/w640-h480/a%2031%20P1490397.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Finally the fire actually has smoke, and we all know - there’s no smoke without fire, and the rush for the door becomes a stampede.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFSdtED-HUw_koW-PBq-GRRVWC11iqBzWXLMMnUAiVJupyFuIjrH6M_YbTLW7mg_cw7lq9cs9TEEqVQ2DbQNqUhcNRxuMcjAOEUuSd2tpWhrJo_q5bsQgcXmbVx0RT53kUr0Sb_FQLOptkKKiKV74zNSJ3dMnpQpw_gWxxXq2pxTFq1UJZ7z5pn1VlDA/s700/a%2032%20IMG_0439.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="439" data-original-width="700" height="402" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFSdtED-HUw_koW-PBq-GRRVWC11iqBzWXLMMnUAiVJupyFuIjrH6M_YbTLW7mg_cw7lq9cs9TEEqVQ2DbQNqUhcNRxuMcjAOEUuSd2tpWhrJo_q5bsQgcXmbVx0RT53kUr0Sb_FQLOptkKKiKV74zNSJ3dMnpQpw_gWxxXq2pxTFq1UJZ7z5pn1VlDA/w640-h402/a%2032%20IMG_0439.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>The Uppsala lads have cut off the retreat to the sea, Argonor has led 3 of his warband through the gap between the field and the hut and attacked the Swedes from the rear, I’m told this is a legitimate tactic to use, but what do I know.</div><div><br /></div><div>The other group, the ones who have been out of sight so far, have finally come in to sight and attack the two chaps carrying the loot from the church. Are you still with me, I hope you’re not as confused by all this as I am.</div><div><br /></div><div>Snappison is trying to make a fighting retreat and has pulled his men back a little as Harrald watches his handiwork in the Long House. He likes fire, and flames and the crackle of burning things, I imagine he’s a bit of a worry if you’re sharing a berth with him.</div><div><br /></div><div>Rolf is being hurried towards the ship by a small band of West Saxons (on the left) who unlike their Jarl have also read the scenario notes and realise Rolf is worth points.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiddK8TWOgIJ88-tE-62Y9Y4C-xS3rHXpbNS_xaCMHkVyY_S3TZX-636WYMVlhhYzbVr4l0dziXMwgNc8HnIYKZgFit3QgZlR_FgKcIaiMkEWyTEuMgNKiHKPiXIm7svC0JyNavABkE4omSs4Fn7URJItRZk29527UQnhYa_vY3aMH6WDHnFHLAe-Dopg/s700/a%2033%20IMG_6016.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="394" data-original-width="700" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiddK8TWOgIJ88-tE-62Y9Y4C-xS3rHXpbNS_xaCMHkVyY_S3TZX-636WYMVlhhYzbVr4l0dziXMwgNc8HnIYKZgFit3QgZlR_FgKcIaiMkEWyTEuMgNKiHKPiXIm7svC0JyNavABkE4omSs4Fn7URJItRZk29527UQnhYa_vY3aMH6WDHnFHLAe-Dopg/w640-h360/a%2033%20IMG_6016.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Red Orm shouts in exultation as his men surge forward, pushing the West Saxons backwards, they are taking a beating. Jarl Snappison is down, defeated by a blonde haired warrior and things are getting very sticky for the raiders. Snappison thinks to himself, “we should have run sooner, bugger this fighting lark” as blood seeps into his boots and makes a mess of his new cloak.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhm9ijH7o-EhqybHvf8636AIAgo0o11x-wgGiNKPRA0nh5em7nJSxJiVnvxlzBSGc7H1Yi8oPjjYU7RwHb0ERKvopQfN9ZeKducCTvwLdDbg81kQqomzNlSyGu_f95JOgnexeh_sAS9t1mbB5ZenCX2PoL_Qe3D9R6HX9kYEghF_TglPNE06jZr600_cg/s700/a%2034%20P1490391.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="431" data-original-width="700" height="394" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhm9ijH7o-EhqybHvf8636AIAgo0o11x-wgGiNKPRA0nh5em7nJSxJiVnvxlzBSGc7H1Yi8oPjjYU7RwHb0ERKvopQfN9ZeKducCTvwLdDbg81kQqomzNlSyGu_f95JOgnexeh_sAS9t1mbB5ZenCX2PoL_Qe3D9R6HX9kYEghF_TglPNE06jZr600_cg/w640-h394/a%2034%20P1490391.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div>Ketil Trout has arrived and leads his men forward past the church. The raiders are now completely outnumbered and will have to either be very fast on their toes or very cunning indeed to get out of this.<br /><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdhUkvnrSTawHHqXr4HZQ7kX93SZ0slwQ8LLTBVQfw68GFWbnYE1PVD4M4_bIL4hoC0qf8jZeSw5sM301yCZM8rCDeerVhe0VDK66J-lh8Uv-E5Qg2KwJ7WGeIEPUfNgHfUrughhidaTM_BN3PPZj7wy5N5peK1YMAP5y-QXFSxApXOfImLPAFBl94HQ/s700/a%2035%20P1490398.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="473" data-original-width="700" height="432" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdhUkvnrSTawHHqXr4HZQ7kX93SZ0slwQ8LLTBVQfw68GFWbnYE1PVD4M4_bIL4hoC0qf8jZeSw5sM301yCZM8rCDeerVhe0VDK66J-lh8Uv-E5Qg2KwJ7WGeIEPUfNgHfUrughhidaTM_BN3PPZj7wy5N5peK1YMAP5y-QXFSxApXOfImLPAFBl94HQ/w640-h432/a%2035%20P1490398.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>The crucial fight is now between the men from Uppsala and the Danes of Argonor. Northman against Northman. If the Danes can defeat the Swedes they will open the way for what’s left of the West Saxons to escape. Of course they will leave behind their Jarl Uthred Snappison, his Skáld Fyrndagas Sweota, and Steapa or Leofric or maybe both, I’m still not sure which is which but I’m sure I’ll be told later.</div><div><br /></div><div>The fight on the far side is between the two Church robbers fighting to retain their loot and their lives and four Swedes. Closest to us are the Danes, a Wolfshead, Vagabond Skallagrimson, a man with a budgie on his shield and on the far right Argonor himself. Argonor as befits a hero is fighting 2 opponents.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_FOJUA5Up2YhRUaMUpzUyx4JTWVxIrnarANAnEBt9GbTo_a6DT6N3G-E_4YpYOKOLEvisefGCIoKyWevIBYlqps1QTSf2qVJE3lF4EOKmCAqqWfZdahhO-DxUMA43QI5jUAjcRDUyFH3P9TB13fwwLW7-3aBHobj36ggzzoQ49KEoA03oJRppWgO3CQ/s700/a%2036%20IMG_6014.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="390" data-original-width="700" height="356" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_FOJUA5Up2YhRUaMUpzUyx4JTWVxIrnarANAnEBt9GbTo_a6DT6N3G-E_4YpYOKOLEvisefGCIoKyWevIBYlqps1QTSf2qVJE3lF4EOKmCAqqWfZdahhO-DxUMA43QI5jUAjcRDUyFH3P9TB13fwwLW7-3aBHobj36ggzzoQ49KEoA03oJRppWgO3CQ/w640-h356/a%2036%20IMG_6014.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>The fighting is hard and good men are hurt and incapacitated, Argonor was defeated, so was Skallagrimson but on the right the Church robbers pushed back two of their enemy and held the other two at bay, some small consolation in a rapidly declining situation.</div><div><br /></div><div>With a roar that could be heard above the tumult of the battle Harrald seeing his new Lord fall, rushed to his aid, the Argonor’s Prancing Horse banner flying high beside him as the Bannerman waved it menacingly in the direction of the Swedes.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQ_KBfojZcuZ6WF7GMtTVe2ugfGXUQBkFZKjXsWavXtMb8xviadgSe8o3XAgDZrCs6HtIVcii5IFYRRrEGgRieIy8r1jm_Um17RJ0SeLZ1kpYmpkmlwD--WjVY7q9Ycuih2EXiDjiKSvd39xg-RtsifalzQLHtBFk1TO0NdbmYpcP1ttizHapX6hHqCA/s700/a%2037%20P1490403.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="484" data-original-width="700" height="442" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQ_KBfojZcuZ6WF7GMtTVe2ugfGXUQBkFZKjXsWavXtMb8xviadgSe8o3XAgDZrCs6HtIVcii5IFYRRrEGgRieIy8r1jm_Um17RJ0SeLZ1kpYmpkmlwD--WjVY7q9Ycuih2EXiDjiKSvd39xg-RtsifalzQLHtBFk1TO0NdbmYpcP1ttizHapX6hHqCA/w640-h442/a%2037%20P1490403.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Rolf’s homestead is ablaze, mostly thanks to one man, Harrald, but the Danes and West Saxons are surrounded by the more numerous Uppsala men.</div><div><br /></div><div>The fight had been long and hard but as daylight closed it looked like the end for our raiders, all the heroic leaders were injured and unable to carry on the fight, all except for Harrald Horned Helmet. A man tall in stature and long on cunning, he shouts for a truce, Red Orm and Ketil Trout agree.</div><div><br /></div><div>“We have Jarl Rolf and will trade him for our lives” Harrald began. Neither Orm or Ketil like Rolf but when Harrald added the sweetener “and we’ll leave the booty behind as well. You can share it as you wish” - they both agreed.</div><div><br /></div><div>So the men of Dane-Mark and the men of Wessex sailed back to Argonor’s Long House not richer in booty but proud in their destruction of Rolf’s Farmstead.</div><div><br /></div><div>The Skáld Fyrndagas Sweota, made a swift recovery and by the time Wave Dancer made port he was half way through a long verse, mainly about the prowess of Jarl Uthred Snappison but the men of Dane-Mark knew who the real heroes were and they were all Danish.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>So Argonors Saga continues, it would be nice to write another chapter of it sooner than in another five years time but who knows how the Norns will spin their web and change the fate of men, not I for sure.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>This was the first of five games we played when the Mad Lord Snapcase journeyed northwards from his home in the hills of Devon to visit me in the wild fastness of the Derbyshire Dales. My Vikings have rarely been out of their comfortable storage in the last 30 or so years and it was a treat to get a few of them running round and creating mayhem after all this time. The inspiration was of course that Snappers has decided for no discernable reason to paint a few West Saxons and it would have been churlish not to have them carouse with seasoned veterans from the 70’s.</div><div><br /></div><div>Hopefully you made it to the end, it’s a long story but after all – it is a Saga.<br /></div><div>Cheers</div><div><br /></div><div>PS It's also my 100th post.</div>Vagabondhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14031648950206231742noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7655102169795953648.post-7891426779424928182022-11-09T06:15:00.000+00:002022-11-09T06:15:08.239+00:00 The Great Escape – The Movie<div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCap4lB9RfqQdBEoFE4m5hrnyNG-T6gk630HgsIQkdK8foBUuN8ngxYgo7sB3mMtSymsnHkpRt7-kcCey_cp0xPVFrJ7rgzCQfytNDlwN_9RPCgtpYwrnTpyCAx6r7r4sr6bSO9gD1I78jWihBvNKBneh179I6mPOXat5Zy60FNLzu0MAHhzk-QetCFg/s700/c001%20P1490210.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="422" data-original-width="700" height="386" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCap4lB9RfqQdBEoFE4m5hrnyNG-T6gk630HgsIQkdK8foBUuN8ngxYgo7sB3mMtSymsnHkpRt7-kcCey_cp0xPVFrJ7rgzCQfytNDlwN_9RPCgtpYwrnTpyCAx6r7r4sr6bSO9gD1I78jWihBvNKBneh179I6mPOXat5Zy60FNLzu0MAHhzk-QetCFg/w640-h386/c001%20P1490210.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Looking down from the hill overlooking the camp Snappers opined “We can’t let this go” Dougers agreed with him and the only dissenting voice was Vaggers. “Look you two; we’ve only just freed you from the clutches of the German Army, who’s left to rescue you if we all get captured this time.</div><div><br /></div><div>He looked despairingly at Bunty and received a blank stare back.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipt22l1aJvyNxyxeVnDgtsrVoqRfOMwDTmObqWKy7Sy0uQEAcRefzuPY0vUcEO3ncEGF1pU5eZE6kSqmzLXkJyaoO--nKIRzlunGz18NZmTRUYH8ufSzJbau-MkDyvcNm3JuIBr82WYKsIMrnRC4dyg6M1pntBjXD9VAS-XEz4fNvSQzM80X-ae6HpcQ/s700/c002%20P1490211.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="525" data-original-width="700" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipt22l1aJvyNxyxeVnDgtsrVoqRfOMwDTmObqWKy7Sy0uQEAcRefzuPY0vUcEO3ncEGF1pU5eZE6kSqmzLXkJyaoO--nKIRzlunGz18NZmTRUYH8ufSzJbau-MkDyvcNm3JuIBr82WYKsIMrnRC4dyg6M1pntBjXD9VAS-XEz4fNvSQzM80X-ae6HpcQ/w640-h480/c002%20P1490211.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>These are my responsibility said Snappers, this is my land and they are my people, he’s never really got over the concept of medieval fealty.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJaEMffuFQLbl03qmdFI24nik6GZ52UOQdll_9y3vF3q4e_pZ2G_fGY73hZC7-YlkfuLBg4lu9jWehlEcAtRDnEvTyXihlKS9bo7hQ3RvuwbQUoQXVja8K0Ysljptnip4jkl9AHh5RD1vy2rFEcUgyyLSfkhbQDzO1crOXmnpTHwXC9qjCPHFcvYHfDA/s700/c003%20P1490215.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="525" data-original-width="700" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJaEMffuFQLbl03qmdFI24nik6GZ52UOQdll_9y3vF3q4e_pZ2G_fGY73hZC7-YlkfuLBg4lu9jWehlEcAtRDnEvTyXihlKS9bo7hQ3RvuwbQUoQXVja8K0Ysljptnip4jkl9AHh5RD1vy2rFEcUgyyLSfkhbQDzO1crOXmnpTHwXC9qjCPHFcvYHfDA/w640-h480/c003%20P1490215.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Look they’re even interning the Clergy and the Sisters from Mother Teresa’s Nunnery or whatever they call it.</div><div><br /></div><div>I didn’t like to point out that these were Catholics and he’d been at war with the Catholics ever since Good Queen Beth’s time.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiEJ2rYgnZwpKpqn5CV9UfGBb7-hnIeQz2vBJtI0OzNrddW_CWgk7AP7nB_9aY2p0RUmag6vtfYhGoI5BBF7HQK2UcqsRHfCBXRACcURijNpBDxRFTgfsCX9lPX4ovF63SngeDKMjhqPTOQ8rRlvtCVwdLgsPw94jvDGnlYAFBBKHzrCfI3sAR8zpp9A/s700/c004%20P1490223.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="525" data-original-width="700" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiEJ2rYgnZwpKpqn5CV9UfGBb7-hnIeQz2vBJtI0OzNrddW_CWgk7AP7nB_9aY2p0RUmag6vtfYhGoI5BBF7HQK2UcqsRHfCBXRACcURijNpBDxRFTgfsCX9lPX4ovF63SngeDKMjhqPTOQ8rRlvtCVwdLgsPw94jvDGnlYAFBBKHzrCfI3sAR8zpp9A/w640-h480/c004%20P1490223.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>OK, lets do it, how do you want to play it out I asked. He looked vaguely disconcerted and then responded, the same as always. Oh no, not the knock, knock who’s there I asked. Well is there any other way.</div><div><br /></div><div>I suppose not, I guess you want me to be the knocker I asked resignedly. Of course old chap – you do it so well he grinned.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrD7ByLE_40G-_id3qTwknDC3JwZcuO_pkuXg-y_vKWpm9bviV5KunwO2iIPR-o614WkkOXTv_VDWU2quHjNmuGfqnjSamR5ZnJ6WpFn-Ykjo6wimajguJhP00LpadDQTBV0eqeNRd_D0q6BWQBNONts3wuLygwoR2SD2fQten1LjC8xePYW4y0qSXtA/s700/c005%20P1490213.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="525" data-original-width="700" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrD7ByLE_40G-_id3qTwknDC3JwZcuO_pkuXg-y_vKWpm9bviV5KunwO2iIPR-o614WkkOXTv_VDWU2quHjNmuGfqnjSamR5ZnJ6WpFn-Ykjo6wimajguJhP00LpadDQTBV0eqeNRd_D0q6BWQBNONts3wuLygwoR2SD2fQten1LjC8xePYW4y0qSXtA/w640-h480/c005%20P1490213.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Knock, knock I smiled at the grim looking SS guard on the outer barrier.</div><div><br /></div><div>What the hell do you want Gerda replied.</div><div><br /></div><div>Err – I have another batch of prisoners for you I responded.</div><div><br /></div><div>You’re not Jim or Fred she said, they’ve been driving the trucks with the Internees.</div><div><br /></div><div>Err – no, I tried all of my charm but met a stony reserve.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIUnF9cewkrEK8uk51iCgR5rAIE_33yLSBbi555J_BtqgPpnXe1vpB2JJetosaRPWc7DtOmv3oHPY-1ox_T_mFcPh0TkoAEiVQMWARXVUVYYG3YAvg3gzbkuj3uH_3Vb_g3T0MFg5463FvcU2Yx7u5_R9TqcZq9yErCIzSUQPOX-2V8s7lQOV3ELMxWA/s700/c006%20P1490214.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="525" data-original-width="700" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIUnF9cewkrEK8uk51iCgR5rAIE_33yLSBbi555J_BtqgPpnXe1vpB2JJetosaRPWc7DtOmv3oHPY-1ox_T_mFcPh0TkoAEiVQMWARXVUVYYG3YAvg3gzbkuj3uH_3Vb_g3T0MFg5463FvcU2Yx7u5_R9TqcZq9yErCIzSUQPOX-2V8s7lQOV3ELMxWA/w640-h480/c006%20P1490214.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Looking over her shoulder I could see the 2nd gate and wondered how the hell we were going to get in if she wouldn’t let us through.</div><div><br /></div><div>Bugger off - she suddenly said when the dice roll finally went her way. We’d spent quite a while with me trying my charm against her brains but as they say brains will do as brains will do, although I’ve no idea what that means. We both realised what I was trying to do wouldn’t work.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcUXt9XR1z4ilgrQJQen0SrZmCAKugv1BARQHEg9Kcv00rr0U_yOL_vK0MzuBUhGxl6kg60kNpoejGJY6zGW-ccDHwteTJ9_QcHIoTEIxfq0H3BaBJjG8G8tDx2r3fxfq-iG4rTPKXMmBmwlUfkTVF4vTx5lePlaAvMgRYKcC7gG4TePQrm3sY2gNLuQ/s700/c007%20P1490224.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="525" data-original-width="700" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcUXt9XR1z4ilgrQJQen0SrZmCAKugv1BARQHEg9Kcv00rr0U_yOL_vK0MzuBUhGxl6kg60kNpoejGJY6zGW-ccDHwteTJ9_QcHIoTEIxfq0H3BaBJjG8G8tDx2r3fxfq-iG4rTPKXMmBmwlUfkTVF4vTx5lePlaAvMgRYKcC7gG4TePQrm3sY2gNLuQ/w640-h480/c007%20P1490224.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Well I did all a man can do when spurned by a woman. - I shot her.</div><div><br /></div><div>Yes I know it wasn’t such a gentlemanly act, I had a double barrelled shotgun and she had a bolt action rifle, but equality is overrated, never go into a fight unless the odds are on your side.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitl98idYhTQJtOWdjSpX6_95m5NvQq4H_GMexUaoEeQa79A_V9RrqBmJUxFCeOhe0hNFwf31AHtvc43yvjvtQICrPd3RcsOmaIvWdU5IIDPEwnk_ARX5QhLjivtnyQv5YCSLPhRNNrH7iqF8YDpPlk6Lnowp9TONyI1FvyUv6ny93RGK9R0xsK0I9B1g/s700/c008%20P1490225.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="525" data-original-width="700" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitl98idYhTQJtOWdjSpX6_95m5NvQq4H_GMexUaoEeQa79A_V9RrqBmJUxFCeOhe0hNFwf31AHtvc43yvjvtQICrPd3RcsOmaIvWdU5IIDPEwnk_ARX5QhLjivtnyQv5YCSLPhRNNrH7iqF8YDpPlk6Lnowp9TONyI1FvyUv6ny93RGK9R0xsK0I9B1g/w640-h480/c008%20P1490225.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Go Go Go I shouted to Bunty who had been sat quietly in the driver’s seat of the truck. She’d been listening to her man trying to charm another woman and failing completely. She shoved her foot to the floor and the big truck leapt forward. Crashing into the big wooden barrier it pushed it out of the way like a piece of matchwood.</div><div><br /></div><div>Gerda was down on the ground bleeding like a stuck pig, although I’ve never seen a pig stuck so not really sure what that looks like.</div><div><br /></div><div>Don’t imagine it’s very pleasant though.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqXpd1o9TSN33fa1yCjnXgz-laOlHoZ_6Brkvq4Wtb1XUsdZX9vf1iW68oxfNyA_dmh3jmGt49KjFTxyxu6kXuc_U6YLE4xNoXv_dVnoMfFyHINW3V4Oau2IJlJhN_qXzQgF3nRSeuWfLtPaLM9nFZAiDSRBXr8i7f6au4vKEeMt5B-FOg0bAnfA_Qng/s700/c009%20P1490226.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="525" data-original-width="700" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqXpd1o9TSN33fa1yCjnXgz-laOlHoZ_6Brkvq4Wtb1XUsdZX9vf1iW68oxfNyA_dmh3jmGt49KjFTxyxu6kXuc_U6YLE4xNoXv_dVnoMfFyHINW3V4Oau2IJlJhN_qXzQgF3nRSeuWfLtPaLM9nFZAiDSRBXr8i7f6au4vKEeMt5B-FOg0bAnfA_Qng/w640-h480/c009%20P1490226.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Even from where I was standing I could see the whites of the Italian Guards eyes as Bunty drove the truck straight at the gate. He raised his rifle but a little too late as there was a resounding crash and the truck burst through.</div><div><br /></div><div>He jumped to one side and didn’t get crushed as the truck careered into the compound.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfIV0D2wbZjf6ZV4lyehtQ7vXTMaTVVzaCgIcZLGJ-tjceKBAkxkgT1xjM7q0dJxFApVvAjGhDlZMLS_xorIlFlujwqGa3qo_Qc0XuVVmfVUWwzC3luhVCsPN260VpvTkRqKti24Y1P1tqzfum1cJ0oGq2B-EIz_I64FXNg5ma5CtBAN6fb9LRuY8T4A/s700/c010%20P1490227.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="525" data-original-width="700" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfIV0D2wbZjf6ZV4lyehtQ7vXTMaTVVzaCgIcZLGJ-tjceKBAkxkgT1xjM7q0dJxFApVvAjGhDlZMLS_xorIlFlujwqGa3qo_Qc0XuVVmfVUWwzC3luhVCsPN260VpvTkRqKti24Y1P1tqzfum1cJ0oGq2B-EIz_I64FXNg5ma5CtBAN6fb9LRuY8T4A/w640-h480/c010%20P1490227.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>It flicked to the right and started to roll, Ingrid and Luca the guards jumped out of the way as did the Rev Green, he was surprisingly lithe for a man of his size and years, but the Nuns were caught unawares.</div><div><br /></div><div>Sister Monica was killed in the blink of an eye and Sister Matilda was thrown 10 ft into the air before landing with a crunch and she was out of any fight there might be.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinB76gl9zgzC87TuxsBTtQZKPk8OnkdzsPIoTfjDQVxpfG1tQhA6n0tz3JkSjHMPrUpKf6w27eJuo8jJt40Qq1gfcn5z5PWESCHAYhpUV3x5q3eaJS3N7Kt0Q0tZxtoTeJFktJBR_VOdJND1G1GFwNMwpe1mO_iRNuSyHR8Wvs-u_lyuBtCK1xHdPoxA/s700/c011%20P1490228.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="525" data-original-width="700" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinB76gl9zgzC87TuxsBTtQZKPk8OnkdzsPIoTfjDQVxpfG1tQhA6n0tz3JkSjHMPrUpKf6w27eJuo8jJt40Qq1gfcn5z5PWESCHAYhpUV3x5q3eaJS3N7Kt0Q0tZxtoTeJFktJBR_VOdJND1G1GFwNMwpe1mO_iRNuSyHR8Wvs-u_lyuBtCK1xHdPoxA/w640-h480/c011%20P1490228.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Reactions varied throughout the camp. Major Kamilla Altman of the SS was stunned but Amelia Frost thought that now was a good time to indicate her disapproval at being rounded up and interned in the camp. Her walking stick twitched and she really would have liked to bring it down on Kamilla’s head, but quickly realised that she was probably too old to start a cat fight, as she’d heard them called, and it might not have the desired effect, so she stayed her hand.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTitI56QTekQHCcbUbST9u4wuh9U0gLq3zzHHRE4yZCWvvefYJcUKm99q6pEX5nwAkORjhh2xNYPJr2EZ8azzgxOmaWBj7KUn4gfpP1W0mZcomnsozDORFEo1bcFMVRqaPcuatnvpcZZjqJwmOGq6kAKZDjtwUTtK0NpIK_j6VGDqWafIDJIERmFluuQ/s700/c012%20P1490229.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="525" data-original-width="700" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTitI56QTekQHCcbUbST9u4wuh9U0gLq3zzHHRE4yZCWvvefYJcUKm99q6pEX5nwAkORjhh2xNYPJr2EZ8azzgxOmaWBj7KUn4gfpP1W0mZcomnsozDORFEo1bcFMVRqaPcuatnvpcZZjqJwmOGq6kAKZDjtwUTtK0NpIK_j6VGDqWafIDJIERmFluuQ/w640-h480/c012%20P1490229.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Ingrid of the SS and Luca both devout Catholics, although Ingrid can’t admit to it, rushed forward and tried to help the Nuns, as Kamilla a devout self server runs forward with her gun in hand to check the truck. She sees the limp body of Bunty Hampster-Crust in the driver’s seat and relaxes a little.</div><div><br /></div><div>Most of the guards are stunned by this turn of events, although not as stunned as the occupants of the truck.</div><div><br /></div><div>Bunty the driver is out of the fight as is Mad Patsie who was sat in the back. Snappers, Dougers and Spankers are still conscious even if a little banged about. They gradually collect them selves and make their way to the back of the truck.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhO2SeEJfRD6fsdEqrPofD8zVR-4aursLpEHQpRPU-Yo-vt7MNQcZ73e_7cuZiv-gPUMAPXcbnu1BbzVASVWfBMGXjJM0DplcNENBE2W48jm6ldPnaKVWZIDHYK3985SaB6FLzhsenR9Ffh84e09Ajri7C3y0U5HbQNdDRVExAYN5YK77SiqFmeHL0Mug/s700/c013%20P1490230.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="525" data-original-width="700" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhO2SeEJfRD6fsdEqrPofD8zVR-4aursLpEHQpRPU-Yo-vt7MNQcZ73e_7cuZiv-gPUMAPXcbnu1BbzVASVWfBMGXjJM0DplcNENBE2W48jm6ldPnaKVWZIDHYK3985SaB6FLzhsenR9Ffh84e09Ajri7C3y0U5HbQNdDRVExAYN5YK77SiqFmeHL0Mug/w640-h480/c013%20P1490230.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Bunty me love screamed Vaggers as he ran forward to help his beloved woman. He should have been paying more attention to what was happening elsewhere, but love is blind and Fiore the guard saw him coming and fired off a single shot from his bolt action rifle.</div><div><br /></div><div>Fiore is a bit of a good shot and even though Vaggers was running fast enough to break the 100yards school record, it wasn’t fast enough to outpace Fiore’s bullet and he was hit, - hard - and went down and wouldn’t get back up in this fight.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIe5sx9fj5PEE6CeM6NxJ4ionosw2rrkpt4rd2g8LiqYJahPrIH0IrxTgB9GK80znVcj_DqiS2Jz2JnEOcRbIAAxBREZKdlGxM_pS-J5E441BWFlDrq-o3gxUvDPoft-MA93vooGX_sE_86VROTj5vjF1yaPQnXfKL_yc9cSoeueP8hu0AaeWHvE5_vg/s700/c014%20P1490231.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="525" data-original-width="700" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIe5sx9fj5PEE6CeM6NxJ4ionosw2rrkpt4rd2g8LiqYJahPrIH0IrxTgB9GK80znVcj_DqiS2Jz2JnEOcRbIAAxBREZKdlGxM_pS-J5E441BWFlDrq-o3gxUvDPoft-MA93vooGX_sE_86VROTj5vjF1yaPQnXfKL_yc9cSoeueP8hu0AaeWHvE5_vg/w640-h480/c014%20P1490231.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Snappers, Dougers and Spankers slowly climbed out of the back of the upturned truck. Snappers and Dougers being pragmatic men saw that they were surrounded with gun toting German and Italian troops and threw their hands up in the air.</div><div><br /></div><div>Spankers though, failed her brains test. She’s going to do something silly. She should have run but instead drew her pistol and opened fire on the nearest guard who happened to be Luca the Italian. He was so surprised by this that even though he had his rifle at the ready Spankers was too quick for him. He was even more surprised when she hit him between the eyes and he fell dead. It was no consolation that she’s not a very good shot (she has other attributes) and it was just a lucky random 6 on the dice. Dead is dead as they say in the morgue.</div><div><br /></div><div>That’s when the brown stuff really hit the fan and everyone started shouting, running and in some cases even shooting.</div><div><br /></div><div>Retribution for Spankers ill considered action was swift but inaccurate. Giuseppe off to our left opened fire on her, missing by a whisker as well as everyone else in that crowded area. Of course Snappers and Dougers had already hit the deck, these old pro’s move quickly when they need to and that probably saved them.</div><div><br /></div><div>I use a random activation, weighted to the best characters and the next to activate were Spankers and Snappers.</div><div><br /></div><div>Snappers, who strangely has a very Anglocentric view on life, knows that a true English Gentleman doesn’t surrender one minute and then pull a gun on his adversary the next, it’s just not cricket, so he just stayed on the ground.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnC1wosNulNwsjkiYPXMMhNaqPpnbrkG0XY7FSGFhSKAnNV3xmHxfcVkGwmSm-OOWBrz9oL9PbEW7tJk6TnXTqbi6A4H3_f-6zMBIj2Mt82B0XClFIahqfQ4VDk7WZo5j8gf7KJYHUwitUfrsZPwTChi1U5_vTaebz-AK4mx7tv7N2h9JvQXs-DTrUHw/s699/c015%20P1490232.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="458" data-original-width="699" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnC1wosNulNwsjkiYPXMMhNaqPpnbrkG0XY7FSGFhSKAnNV3xmHxfcVkGwmSm-OOWBrz9oL9PbEW7tJk6TnXTqbi6A4H3_f-6zMBIj2Mt82B0XClFIahqfQ4VDk7WZo5j8gf7KJYHUwitUfrsZPwTChi1U5_vTaebz-AK4mx7tv7N2h9JvQXs-DTrUHw/w640-h420/c015%20P1490232.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Spankers took a more considered view of her predicament and with the words that Arnie would make famous years later she shouted “I’ll be back” and ran through the gate and as far down the road as her legs could carry her. Until recently she’d been a pretty handy 100m sprinter and indeed one of Snappers prized possessions is a photograph of her in the Berlin Harriers running kit. The flying boots that she’s taken to wearing lately hardly slowed her at all and she was covering a lot of ground very quickly.</div><div><br /></div><div>A few bullets whizzed past her, but the guards were winded having to run to get into position to fire and nothing came anywhere near her.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhchUT0ZMSh45AE_k38BrAlaAjgOk7_q3NJkyqTbMSYKtQwH42JLpJw3VXnOWpZVunCEGcVba_rdIKeMadPwxK8cuG2I001HuDD0YRmZfNZ679Ykc8eYZRV4l52otwzSsYZDcJahf6EDv0w9pP7OW667rZBK5eC48FHXVqyl5ugF9IqS8enzX-z2HHgzA/s700/c017%20P1490233.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="525" data-original-width="700" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhchUT0ZMSh45AE_k38BrAlaAjgOk7_q3NJkyqTbMSYKtQwH42JLpJw3VXnOWpZVunCEGcVba_rdIKeMadPwxK8cuG2I001HuDD0YRmZfNZ679Ykc8eYZRV4l52otwzSsYZDcJahf6EDv0w9pP7OW667rZBK5eC48FHXVqyl5ugF9IqS8enzX-z2HHgzA/w640-h480/c017%20P1490233.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div>Well the two old Duffers, I mean hero’s are incarcerated again, this time in a place a little more secure than a cellar in Greater Snoring.</div><div><br /></div><div>No one has escaped from the Cooler – yet. Of course they are the first English occupants of the place so that’s not such a daunting fact as it might seem. Given a teaspoon and a bit of wood they will soon have a tunnel underway.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8MYQlgdAdnPLIcriYKgs6qdXuiw6R_JByX4fk53uYzKfMhgvx_JDWGUld4EX66tZNyj2ddJT1YiO0MHGQaf603DUFct_UOaVRUHKXl7J3e8nEBLICwFJnubsLlAEGjvFwzJUmNDhudnRwUBhTNoudgELKGo29yP1Uxusn4BDpXI3ckGjPqEgQg6bs5w/s700/c018%20P1490234.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="525" data-original-width="700" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8MYQlgdAdnPLIcriYKgs6qdXuiw6R_JByX4fk53uYzKfMhgvx_JDWGUld4EX66tZNyj2ddJT1YiO0MHGQaf603DUFct_UOaVRUHKXl7J3e8nEBLICwFJnubsLlAEGjvFwzJUmNDhudnRwUBhTNoudgELKGo29yP1Uxusn4BDpXI3ckGjPqEgQg6bs5w/w640-h480/c018%20P1490234.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div>The small hospital is full to over flowing, patients are laying on the floor because there aren’t enough beds and of course there is no nursing staff either. Sister Matilda who has the skills might have helped out if Bunty hadn’t run her over and was a little miffed that she was sharing the floor with the erstwhile Bunty and the other intrepid rescuers Mad Patsie and Vaggers.</div><div><br /></div><div>Vaggers might have enjoyed his sojourn in the hospital with three young women if the floor wasn’t so hard and the wound in his leg didn’t hurt so much. There was the added disadvantage that there was no medication or pain relief available either, however :-</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-9wquUWM0PyadhQ0mHtH3VZAjb3XbbIh5km6QtZjZH9Ek9ywu6QH0D7twKflxx5LExC8DpVL-SQh3S6UgPyUCyOITvJfBH45QNKK3RLzojSEFtq3z8bX0pIXr8q2n_aOCgXVbJNUg3dcriG6NXUOy_ANVRqxzJiK3GV_AB8GxFzyJJT87r6_sQ2ZaNg/s700/c016%20P1490235.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="525" data-original-width="700" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-9wquUWM0PyadhQ0mHtH3VZAjb3XbbIh5km6QtZjZH9Ek9ywu6QH0D7twKflxx5LExC8DpVL-SQh3S6UgPyUCyOITvJfBH45QNKK3RLzojSEFtq3z8bX0pIXr8q2n_aOCgXVbJNUg3dcriG6NXUOy_ANVRqxzJiK3GV_AB8GxFzyJJT87r6_sQ2ZaNg/w640-h480/c016%20P1490235.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>It was better than the alternative, as the Reverend Green surveys the 3 new graves and wonders who is occupying the fourth one that was already there this morning.</div><div><br /></div><div>Well as plans go, trying to charm your way into an Internment Camp wasn’t such a good idea and driving the truck through the barrier didn’t work as well this time as it did with the shop window in Greater Snoring.</div><div><br /></div><div>You live and learn.</div><div><br /></div><div>Years ago someone called something like Affrik posted a number of games using the Pulp Alley rules and in one of these he has some Agents enter a Secret Facility using forged documents. Each encounter was a combat between the good guys to see if they could persuade the bad guy’s that their documents were genuine, or it might have been the reverse, it was a long time ago. Anyway I’ve always wanted to use the idea of breaking into a camp of some sort with the same idea. It obviously didn’t work here but now I have something to break into I’ll try and find his game report and see what his criteria were and probably have another go.</div><div><br /></div><div>Thanks for reading – if you did.</div><div><br /></div><div>Cheers</div>Vagabondhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14031648950206231742noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7655102169795953648.post-35979312461083006232022-11-06T14:51:00.002+00:002022-11-06T14:51:32.943+00:00The Great Escape - The Camp<div>There was great rejoicing in the frozen North when we had a visit from the King in the South. Well he’s not really a King himself but I’m sure there’s a Regal ancestor somewhere in the dim and distant past of the reprobate, who is known round these part as The Mad Lord Snapcase.</div><div><br /></div><div>The celebrations lasted for days, virgins were sacrificed, goats and bullocks roasted by the score, ale and wine consumed in great quantities and we played five games, two of which I've already posted.</div><div><br /></div><div>Unfortunately the other member of the Triumvirate Doug ex EM4 couldn’t leave his ancestral home, something to do with a pack of hounds and the fact that he gets a nose bleed when travelling North. I personally believe it’s down to the fact that the battery on his motorised scooter needs charging too many times to make it up the Great North Road.</div><div><br /></div><div>One of the games we played is the new 02 Hundred Rules that the Mad Lord has invested in, and so he sent me instructions on the sort of terrain that would be suitable and Ibuilt it to order, so I thought I should show off. Show it off I mean!</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgi8nyUlSSMkoIM23K1P2rOambSa6IE7MkTUGR3_1isrDH08acxAAjay3D4_GlGpueTwpKV39E4KZGC6QXjHhISlGdJENI27GLqRm5H9ZvgVv7ya89jgbYvZadh7GVifBM2dJX4eOuztP7Kf1OmGxq-n5Lly4NTJ4wla0YXc_zAKxCk0fs8cdNP9n-ZPQ/s700/a001%20P1490186.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="525" data-original-width="700" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgi8nyUlSSMkoIM23K1P2rOambSa6IE7MkTUGR3_1isrDH08acxAAjay3D4_GlGpueTwpKV39E4KZGC6QXjHhISlGdJENI27GLqRm5H9ZvgVv7ya89jgbYvZadh7GVifBM2dJX4eOuztP7Kf1OmGxq-n5Lly4NTJ4wla0YXc_zAKxCk0fs8cdNP9n-ZPQ/w640-h480/a001%20P1490186.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>If you read my story about the rescue of the Mad Lord Snapcase (Snappers) and Doug not EM4 (Dougers) you might be familiar with some of these faces, of course it was a few months ago and a lot of wine has gone under the bridge since then so you could refresh your memory it's only a few post's down. Yes - I know it’s pretty unlikely, but you might not be aware of the invasion of East Anglia following the British retreat at Dunkirk and this might make more sense if you are aware of it. Perhaps!!</div><div><br /></div><div>They appear to be lined up in front of a wooden hut!</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiM1SBSqmRlSAOcKy9dLsSMTaecIe8xSo_aGOlCcGWrrTuTE0isfPDfcwkLc4UG_JSJcjW13iwdW5O_39y8IFW7hj5NhWWZOeDKPvq5Od-IpWVkXgrpLmp3fBOWE1TNy2-jv-DEkt80lF88f_Xu--EKGzZc_gZkIIAdW_5WfJTFVlDw0YNU2ab7qUucQ/s700/a002%20P1490188.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="525" data-original-width="700" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiM1SBSqmRlSAOcKy9dLsSMTaecIe8xSo_aGOlCcGWrrTuTE0isfPDfcwkLc4UG_JSJcjW13iwdW5O_39y8IFW7hj5NhWWZOeDKPvq5Od-IpWVkXgrpLmp3fBOWE1TNy2-jv-DEkt80lF88f_Xu--EKGzZc_gZkIIAdW_5WfJTFVlDw0YNU2ab7qUucQ/w640-h480/a002%20P1490188.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>They appear to be lined up in front of some German Officers as well, what the heck is going on?</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoSZHo7jDscSv_joMD2Bhmki2-4Eut21rZ9qzG4SgB3CrAwoje3V-hKaJbTn1z25zYZam3SoE9DLyNtG2NhRoobxwHbUcEGDaZNGTl56-kHPzg51RHalwsycXv_ZtOZxImOUwONKWGXTQvSAMs6PfGBgpE73ZLXIrKp4jslWRjIF9ns1eJQgzixyydMQ/s700/a003%20P1490202.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="525" data-original-width="700" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoSZHo7jDscSv_joMD2Bhmki2-4Eut21rZ9qzG4SgB3CrAwoje3V-hKaJbTn1z25zYZam3SoE9DLyNtG2NhRoobxwHbUcEGDaZNGTl56-kHPzg51RHalwsycXv_ZtOZxImOUwONKWGXTQvSAMs6PfGBgpE73ZLXIrKp4jslWRjIF9ns1eJQgzixyydMQ/w640-h480/a003%20P1490202.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Meinhard Wenke of the Gestapo and Kamilla Altman of the SS haven’t been in East Anglia long but they’ve taken a distinct dislike to the residents of Greater Snoring and are keen to show it.</div><div><br /></div><div>Following the fracas in Greater Snoring the German Army were quick to respond, rounding up anyone who might have been involved in the rescue of Snappers and Dougers and they’ve shipped them off to an old British Army camp near Thetford.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0Q-DDIoKo_2v_KCJYUCNb3zcii8NafiXv6AiSi0xEfBB3xB6WguuqjBMwWOB_LU5UMcF6OL6oruihKnQzI0drfIw4XTytmSg-CroANbHhf6rXxKxYtqqiDRq4N-CNkrmDbm91fepgbMe47cyihH2HVwubml-5d50TYdVf90gPjNq6Nfqgy-yKjOPP6A/s800/a004%20P1490185.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="800" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0Q-DDIoKo_2v_KCJYUCNb3zcii8NafiXv6AiSi0xEfBB3xB6WguuqjBMwWOB_LU5UMcF6OL6oruihKnQzI0drfIw4XTytmSg-CroANbHhf6rXxKxYtqqiDRq4N-CNkrmDbm91fepgbMe47cyihH2HVwubml-5d50TYdVf90gPjNq6Nfqgy-yKjOPP6A/w640-h480/a004%20P1490185.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>These camps have every modern convenience.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiynFJ50ELt_rrNYdmFOs6L-IYk3xNDNkgYRVhvpnEnsUcrIJCNjXU_PSa7tgOTKr4UlR5L5m3-tS3jzOO00jBVaj6Xg87t4WlBgnII-WhobWth129ZVD0RQY9LlAPksZmQB75xdJ2_KV40Uv_dA_GvZI2jXMQc9rHy-llhdTgr39CX00s9codWi4mquw/s700/a005%20P1490194.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="525" data-original-width="700" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiynFJ50ELt_rrNYdmFOs6L-IYk3xNDNkgYRVhvpnEnsUcrIJCNjXU_PSa7tgOTKr4UlR5L5m3-tS3jzOO00jBVaj6Xg87t4WlBgnII-WhobWth129ZVD0RQY9LlAPksZmQB75xdJ2_KV40Uv_dA_GvZI2jXMQc9rHy-llhdTgr39CX00s9codWi4mquw/w640-h480/a005%20P1490194.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>The ones for the inmates have no doors; there’ll be no tunnelling out through the privy in this camp.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkTG5Fy3an01wG2sfM9AzcUentd2Q-NOHBYK-MQdygs4qpXk5CLdGs6tbdZReX1rMCaAQ2bSYbUqV701J-GpBrCSOvjk6t8Xm36eJZVTpJAMHE9CUqFH0stxXSaXHaHqg0DMPgRRAr8hsjIFVehBL_z66K70a_zESgsDZfpQuOQXEeInAyU6fCxpB-mQ/s700/a006%20P1490196.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="525" data-original-width="700" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkTG5Fy3an01wG2sfM9AzcUentd2Q-NOHBYK-MQdygs4qpXk5CLdGs6tbdZReX1rMCaAQ2bSYbUqV701J-GpBrCSOvjk6t8Xm36eJZVTpJAMHE9CUqFH0stxXSaXHaHqg0DMPgRRAr8hsjIFVehBL_z66K70a_zESgsDZfpQuOQXEeInAyU6fCxpB-mQ/w640-h480/a006%20P1490196.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>The ones for the guards have doors and paper, well newspaper at least, but it does provide reading matter as you wait for natures call.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh369WIT95Hsxp2MI-ZKvncGc8usWNpFTt3y0eDtSZ6DYURcEY2e30ElXutxIlLlUIV3kR8Wxk86xpzQn5YmKxdguwu6frtuNx2LZRSnG-oidSqbVNRyxM4bIAioHlaIu8rYjfqnCIbopQQTBZod-HvhSfra_-PfOuOFn46W7CFMQ0-NwjSDQ6WQHv21w/s700/a007%20P1490189.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="525" data-original-width="700" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh369WIT95Hsxp2MI-ZKvncGc8usWNpFTt3y0eDtSZ6DYURcEY2e30ElXutxIlLlUIV3kR8Wxk86xpzQn5YmKxdguwu6frtuNx2LZRSnG-oidSqbVNRyxM4bIAioHlaIu8rYjfqnCIbopQQTBZod-HvhSfra_-PfOuOFn46W7CFMQ0-NwjSDQ6WQHv21w/w640-h480/a007%20P1490189.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>More internees are arriving through the main gate. Well it’s the only gate and has a strong guard to stop any escapees.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQcVroU88j-26sA1fnfmoxDodSu3CluNJeAs2YGgNMKje8Rq7otqnSeZndHWOKdYztWXJiyUeSDOOKtOJ37KSd5nIl-QH5JXP5AzBLBdPDWK0J5l6UJGGuOVCY-OCR4OOJVTCVF9oU9qQK8R2JN_m_8MKPhhyflNwca5gyAbN1TzEH8CgNUbhbXrvJ6A/s700/a008%20P1490201.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="525" data-original-width="700" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQcVroU88j-26sA1fnfmoxDodSu3CluNJeAs2YGgNMKje8Rq7otqnSeZndHWOKdYztWXJiyUeSDOOKtOJ37KSd5nIl-QH5JXP5AzBLBdPDWK0J5l6UJGGuOVCY-OCR4OOJVTCVF9oU9qQK8R2JN_m_8MKPhhyflNwca5gyAbN1TzEH8CgNUbhbXrvJ6A/w640-h480/a008%20P1490201.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Gerda is the strong guard and she looks pretty ferocious. Somewhere there’s a dog, a big dog, a Doberman dog but I think Gerda is still more frightening.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh97Km1GkhI9OJXRjh2GkoVI1meQic7zD2kMTu71QYmXY0bltE39HCil2DOE6KZNxVc-Hjy3Isp6F-NIgCPkz3b1b_K_lbFCEpZYcH79KVQ8dSjG7tOKY6x4yvzPJ66l4VhvilYy8PgeCrby-f6qu-U-aJvIkl1c8Va00zU1ruvRC0Mn5LYIpdrFcImiA/s700/a009%20P1490191.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="525" data-original-width="700" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh97Km1GkhI9OJXRjh2GkoVI1meQic7zD2kMTu71QYmXY0bltE39HCil2DOE6KZNxVc-Hjy3Isp6F-NIgCPkz3b1b_K_lbFCEpZYcH79KVQ8dSjG7tOKY6x4yvzPJ66l4VhvilYy8PgeCrby-f6qu-U-aJvIkl1c8Va00zU1ruvRC0Mn5LYIpdrFcImiA/w640-h480/a009%20P1490191.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>The camp is filling up quickly as three more truck loads of dodgy characters are delivered using the locally requisitioned trucks.</div><div><br /></div><div>There would have been more trucks available but something to do with a sugar shortage at the local shop and sticky fuel will stop most diesel engines I believe.</div><div><br /></div><div>You can see why Wenke of the Gestapo and Altman of the SS dislike the locals so much.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSTMfMd2CkRlyGv0yRPX1KobJikDC3gpZThYQslcocfhHyOkw6qeinuQOqzKXmmcTxbakSj_PW3-noSC8w2eUGQEIKf88cUVmlORg7lHqybeG0m4_E1dxXHLF-d7I16GKLAtUd1OwgHc8Tj49xBIUADDq4f6vJx4pmH5kTEv3fFeZsJRa9AyeITngiKg/s800/a010%20P1490183.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="800" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSTMfMd2CkRlyGv0yRPX1KobJikDC3gpZThYQslcocfhHyOkw6qeinuQOqzKXmmcTxbakSj_PW3-noSC8w2eUGQEIKf88cUVmlORg7lHqybeG0m4_E1dxXHLF-d7I16GKLAtUd1OwgHc8Tj49xBIUADDq4f6vJx4pmH5kTEv3fFeZsJRa9AyeITngiKg/w640-h480/a010%20P1490183.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Some work has been carried out clearing the local forest on the south and west side but it still reaches the wall at the back of the compound.</div><div><br /></div><div>I wonder if they try and dig the tunnels, Tom, Dick and Harry will they encounter many tree roots and will this slow them down.</div><div><br /></div><div>Somehow I can’t see Mrs Peacock and Professor Plumbovski digging very far.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9XbzOkaH-4ckrEObP20U3tf7uUlhY2RoOmC2A76XQwaNVI20PsDfMopWGnAo6RJpimCUTRhqL_N7lCKW2UF_Di8ARgjUtUStQLmZoYzeIcNx7bTOHdlk19FlXPklMVkOEztdlFu2GehOP9VjN0LNlojugXWuyTwohTY-PaMAnL35XQbw-YEIzoDWmfA/s700/a011%20P1490197.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="525" data-original-width="700" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9XbzOkaH-4ckrEObP20U3tf7uUlhY2RoOmC2A76XQwaNVI20PsDfMopWGnAo6RJpimCUTRhqL_N7lCKW2UF_Di8ARgjUtUStQLmZoYzeIcNx7bTOHdlk19FlXPklMVkOEztdlFu2GehOP9VjN0LNlojugXWuyTwohTY-PaMAnL35XQbw-YEIzoDWmfA/w640-h480/a011%20P1490197.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Just outside the perimeter fence to the south east there is a rough wooden cross at the head of a small mound of earth. Your guess is as good as mine!</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEht_uLPBoNXs5sg0eipc0203h3qQp4_cU5NYqxRrnkRf4Tp9a0Nwpcnt4hGWhx-Ry0RD-zhb1rOvXpZ4TTwmWmvJYS5ZP-dnIrwtny8I2KekOlBSvPX7KRAnm3fs-yf9U3tY_ONV3aVgKPNfQXof_1uRcYK0LMFf1xSNbatB2uKGeXr9GybcB8-NSnadQ/s700/a012%20P1490200.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="525" data-original-width="700" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEht_uLPBoNXs5sg0eipc0203h3qQp4_cU5NYqxRrnkRf4Tp9a0Nwpcnt4hGWhx-Ry0RD-zhb1rOvXpZ4TTwmWmvJYS5ZP-dnIrwtny8I2KekOlBSvPX7KRAnm3fs-yf9U3tY_ONV3aVgKPNfQXof_1uRcYK0LMFf1xSNbatB2uKGeXr9GybcB8-NSnadQ/w640-h480/a012%20P1490200.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>On the inside of the wire is a vegetable patch, I recognise Cabbage but not the other stuff, any ideas?</div><div><br /></div><div>It looks like the Italians have been seconded to guard duties as Vito patrols the fence line. You don’t know who Vito is? I told you to read the previous story.</div><div><br /></div><div>Ok that’s the scenery for the Mad Lords game. He’s been painting Commandos, SAS, SBS by the score, as well as German guards by the ones (I think he’ll be the British and I’ll be the Germans) and so there is a faint possibility that he’ll post about it here but as I’ve still got this set up on my table.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5o94_iJTLw92rp0mu5RMBaJo79EdRFmJzmQIF1cQBn4lwUdr7Id81lLoDqGW3a_0i1zsNKmjjRwsCl7nY7zMit4LeudloMQD1X3sjtFEAzTE-EBJeLVMLeiRmIe-U0Fy6nfYLP1P61_Bw_7LGi39wkuoHXbhdKKyh6qVY_NnxA9iMbdUePCEOBBF-qQ/s700/a013%20P1490204.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="525" data-original-width="700" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5o94_iJTLw92rp0mu5RMBaJo79EdRFmJzmQIF1cQBn4lwUdr7Id81lLoDqGW3a_0i1zsNKmjjRwsCl7nY7zMit4LeudloMQD1X3sjtFEAzTE-EBJeLVMLeiRmIe-U0Fy6nfYLP1P61_Bw_7LGi39wkuoHXbhdKKyh6qVY_NnxA9iMbdUePCEOBBF-qQ/w640-h480/a013%20P1490204.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>And these characters seem to be in the vicinity I might just play a game before I move on to the next element of the extravaganza.</div><div><br /></div><div>What do you mean, who are they?</div><div><br /></div><div>Snappers disguised as Sir Henry, Spankers disguised as Isla von Strum. Patsie Jones disguised as Mad Patsie and she seems to have taken a shine to Dougers, disguised as George, or Sir George as he’d like to be known. Bunty Hampster-Crust disguised as Hazel Arnesen and Vaggers disguised as William Morris that well known art and craft man.</div><div><br /></div><div>I told you to read the previous story.</div><div><br /></div><div>The buildings are all from EBob Miniatures, they’re printed card, glued to foamboard and are free. Free is good where I come from, although free usually means it’s been stolen.</div><div><br /></div><div>Pip Pip as the Mad Lord would say.</div>Vagabondhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14031648950206231742noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7655102169795953648.post-1332211123697428302022-10-02T18:17:00.000+01:002022-10-02T18:17:16.112+01:00The Mabel Street Mob - Bank RaidAlmost everyone has heard of Bonny and Clyde, John Dillinger and Baby Face Nelson but in their day The Mabel Street Mob were just as renowned for their daring and brutal deeds. Bank raids were commonplace, gunfights with the cops more so and for some reason; both acts were looked on as heroic by the poor and not so poor alike.<div><br /></div><div>I’d like to describe one such Bank raid now, but if you want to find out more about the Mob there are some other tales available to read.</div><div><br /></div><div><a href="http://vagabondswargamingblog.blogspot.com/2018/09/the-mabel-street-mob-police-raid-on.html" target="_blank">http://vagabondswargamingblog.blogspot.com/2018/09/the-mabel-street-mob-police-raid-on.html</a> this is the first time they came to my attention. The Cops had a tip off and aimed to take the Mabel Street Mob down. It didn’t go well for the Cops although they did arrest one of the outfit.</div><div><br /></div><div><a href="http://vagabondswargamingblog.blogspot.com/2018/10/the-mabel-street-mob-to-rescue.html" target="_blank">http://vagabondswargamingblog.blogspot.com/2018/10/the-mabel-street-mob-to-rescue.html</a> is the story of the daring Jailbreak to rescue their comrade before she spilled the beanz.</div><div><br /></div><div>This then is the story of the famous Little Whiskey Bank Raid; it made Coffeeville sound like a kindergarten party.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzElKZjZ2JSBus_3flb16ys9_6Ilhmx4pNTaAacv54zuff5KGc395RvXlWWyD_Bu7Gkj3qaDwPYQh8DtisoNjhOSHc1MaxxQuFWNFyBrnsyRICtQXxJVXX83ZW6NWmwgZ7JST3z1GcD0RmPYToCLhJLnH0Zxgp2mUCIvnlUX412Q43V42gFtLqEXFHNA/s700/a001%20P1490510.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="536" data-original-width="700" height="490" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzElKZjZ2JSBus_3flb16ys9_6Ilhmx4pNTaAacv54zuff5KGc395RvXlWWyD_Bu7Gkj3qaDwPYQh8DtisoNjhOSHc1MaxxQuFWNFyBrnsyRICtQXxJVXX83ZW6NWmwgZ7JST3z1GcD0RmPYToCLhJLnH0Zxgp2mUCIvnlUX412Q43V42gFtLqEXFHNA/w640-h490/a001%20P1490510.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Little Whiskey in the 20’s - nothing much has changed on Main Street, it’s still the only street in town. Gasoline engines rated in horse power drive car’s and horses still foul the road way and enrage drivers with their slow acceleration.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsY0cKiMGudj7PZgt5ApoiKhA_Qcz-Sv1oHTP7PQyFrO2xQJNmeTMP01Snq8dYKTd525TCmXeTGOAdOiaI5563_YPYCqBUlnH-jOKS0hT7EcOoNgK0Ky25Kum5DFhVAdvuFeRsia1rVOp6-oss3q_9gMjZYCAHUwdVxmrmH8GqHYUEV4goMg1MNtQzUQ/s700/a002%20IMG_6114.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="467" data-original-width="700" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsY0cKiMGudj7PZgt5ApoiKhA_Qcz-Sv1oHTP7PQyFrO2xQJNmeTMP01Snq8dYKTd525TCmXeTGOAdOiaI5563_YPYCqBUlnH-jOKS0hT7EcOoNgK0Ky25Kum5DFhVAdvuFeRsia1rVOp6-oss3q_9gMjZYCAHUwdVxmrmH8GqHYUEV4goMg1MNtQzUQ/w640-h426/a002%20IMG_6114.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>The town is still fairly quiet and although Chester doesn’t drive the stage through at breakneck speed other drivers are just as inconsiderate.</div><div><br /></div><div>This pair of vehicles are travelling at 30 miles per hour down Main Street, a totally unnecessary speed the concerned citizens believe.</div><div><br /></div><div>Although Chester would have been proud of them.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYllj7v9q4k7khMscV52ErtDbgK5lggGz0fLK77RHFaLlzx4qwO-h8M2z0LPREaBrY4SOP1lx07nR2sLA4DQht1os8CJhkjJ7PDbDWYLpO3_q4UZyHesA4vRWhBA7rxFburUTkqEewouzisYiUidKqPXh0Pc9PS9In0U7ab3aI1ZwxNRBM4cKrD8MG_g/s700/a003%20IMG_6115.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="474" data-original-width="700" height="434" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYllj7v9q4k7khMscV52ErtDbgK5lggGz0fLK77RHFaLlzx4qwO-h8M2z0LPREaBrY4SOP1lx07nR2sLA4DQht1os8CJhkjJ7PDbDWYLpO3_q4UZyHesA4vRWhBA7rxFburUTkqEewouzisYiUidKqPXh0Pc9PS9In0U7ab3aI1ZwxNRBM4cKrD8MG_g/w640-h434/a003%20IMG_6115.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>From the other end of town you can see how little has changed from its wild days in the 1860’s and 70’s. The lumber piles are still there, no new buildings have been erected and the bank hasn’t gone bust as was predicted by the gloom mongerers.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfGruVb1ZLRScsJmGaKC_m_d7M5l53kaJggckXKim_2NlTXxKvN8E1m5a67vyM3cfDqmAnYmiZvzpBSdAmqJnDqxdziRSk5wHgNlCqnW472SKW-3VLyxXonP9-a2RzXAvy8II8sMoprdcWfuj7luPtg42DDDKtt2o12oXVIduZdEfGFJsQiFP2Rg_imA/s700/a004%20P1490509.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="525" data-original-width="700" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfGruVb1ZLRScsJmGaKC_m_d7M5l53kaJggckXKim_2NlTXxKvN8E1m5a67vyM3cfDqmAnYmiZvzpBSdAmqJnDqxdziRSk5wHgNlCqnW472SKW-3VLyxXonP9-a2RzXAvy8II8sMoprdcWfuj7luPtg42DDDKtt2o12oXVIduZdEfGFJsQiFP2Rg_imA/w640-h480/a004%20P1490509.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Big Jim's Corral is still here, although now run by his Grand Daughter, Little Jenny, and in spite of the changing times, it still seems to be full of beeves.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqMVmTBJHB_U-Zm0w-ZA8OycbcDef7OHoJTaIeGfuVAj4aFQghMZXbVEwOjiWijnTpL0xj62-pF3dj5XBZWKvf8urq_wqxpj_Vm4fmgCe1FP3OJwF3varP8iFVIuWQyT1hfywsx3Kw-TNeviFpxSQ9aIEKD_c_bk3IznZB1bmEQGEGI2akqu9wgNXmJQ/s700/a005%20P1490511.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="525" data-original-width="700" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqMVmTBJHB_U-Zm0w-ZA8OycbcDef7OHoJTaIeGfuVAj4aFQghMZXbVEwOjiWijnTpL0xj62-pF3dj5XBZWKvf8urq_wqxpj_Vm4fmgCe1FP3OJwF3varP8iFVIuWQyT1hfywsx3Kw-TNeviFpxSQ9aIEKD_c_bk3IznZB1bmEQGEGI2akqu9wgNXmJQ/w640-h480/a005%20P1490511.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>The Grocery business is now run by the Chinese, Yu Lon Chi keeps a tight reign things but Chu Mai Ling has turned Blonde Edna’s Brothel into an Opium Den. The town has sure cleaned up its act.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiikBjPfZtoKxAc2ajs6g2IKQSd3hVHxtC6xdU3ZdSB41NqUAnOjuKSZTAIbxyFLDee3U8VwaPiWAzGJ9ulCQ_yxMZI9IdTos13FcfnJafO_X9Ywi1nSokmr7gPCrzOJps2GTVz9a_7c8lWN668RUkYgu51N_nzv2IFQGUFt0ZxMW2Tk62h1DLv8yqDpQ/s700/a006%20P1490513.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="440" data-original-width="700" height="402" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiikBjPfZtoKxAc2ajs6g2IKQSd3hVHxtC6xdU3ZdSB41NqUAnOjuKSZTAIbxyFLDee3U8VwaPiWAzGJ9ulCQ_yxMZI9IdTos13FcfnJafO_X9Ywi1nSokmr7gPCrzOJps2GTVz9a_7c8lWN668RUkYgu51N_nzv2IFQGUFt0ZxMW2Tk62h1DLv8yqDpQ/w640-h402/a006%20P1490513.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>The Tail Feather Saloon is still in business as a coffee shop but owned by the Bank who foreclosed on their loan when the previous owner Whiskey Jack drank himself to death. There was no way he was going to destroy all his whiskey on the 17th Jan 1920 but the effort of drinking it all proved too much for him.</div><div>For 10 cents you can visit his pickled body in the back room of the Saloon and for another 10 cents touch the glass from which he tried to drink all the whiskey.</div><div><br /></div><div>These concerned citizens are wondering if they should support the drive to ban coffee as well as alcohol, it’s the Devil’s liquid and a stimulant after all.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEI42hxbcgML_CzRENZ7uU_ia1HYjU3uLeO8N02WkGcMIuNfS-6D8mKK_Cf6IRru2tXcvWsPMaEg7TKPI29Vh9z5augmddiQfxFtYSgUPN5wYiOvaISh-pe23_4NZNrsez2CQHTZ1itDuubr_YAemyzSz05BusQycjmFMSSDim0hlnA5Ng8wmYHKTomg/s700/a007%20IMG_6117.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="430" data-original-width="700" height="394" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEI42hxbcgML_CzRENZ7uU_ia1HYjU3uLeO8N02WkGcMIuNfS-6D8mKK_Cf6IRru2tXcvWsPMaEg7TKPI29Vh9z5augmddiQfxFtYSgUPN5wYiOvaISh-pe23_4NZNrsez2CQHTZ1itDuubr_YAemyzSz05BusQycjmFMSSDim0hlnA5Ng8wmYHKTomg/w640-h394/a007%20IMG_6117.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>The Sheriffs office is still next door to the Bank and he keeps a horse and car outside to run down the frequent transgressors of the towns laws. The Bank is the strongest supporter of Law and Order in the town and the Sheriff has been known to help them with debt collection – for a small donation to his re-election campaign fund of course.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi22ttn2d63KJdpmraJ5rkoNCWhuqo1RaQQcxDBp7cA-F6uiZzRMhm0LW5Qfq0SlGCtYUWyINFoPxtJTiuXuGgKBDwRtsfDeUqUHrYUoGrOvPku_zGG7aDzTdrngkdrAOWtx3gx_1jmC2xYwZKArBEFKwaSe3C7ku8p0WWamGbLWHRuUsd2LlFi-z-_Ig/s700/a008%20P1490518.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="525" data-original-width="700" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi22ttn2d63KJdpmraJ5rkoNCWhuqo1RaQQcxDBp7cA-F6uiZzRMhm0LW5Qfq0SlGCtYUWyINFoPxtJTiuXuGgKBDwRtsfDeUqUHrYUoGrOvPku_zGG7aDzTdrngkdrAOWtx3gx_1jmC2xYwZKArBEFKwaSe3C7ku8p0WWamGbLWHRuUsd2LlFi-z-_Ig/w640-h480/a008%20P1490518.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Clutching his bible and praying for redemption Rev Green wonders how he can increase his congregation and get them to build him a new church. Well any church would do, as he’s preaching by the roadside cross on the edge of town.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfepT5WY0g8Zrlz03hP_0jlzF7S8bS9mZUmEZJx5J-VfdbKhj8yg9pDeWNbDX03a_pFrFjklf8vDm40nuntcCJ3qJQKbgSEVBukvrmbT7I9pmRnACfGCG9Lo4svkTyeWPFkqFLnk_MKtdBQtMQJ7qUzWJnkdDhlCBXpRIS3ZgLRNbIw4V8XPQ8VvEALg/s700/a009%20P1490517.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="414" data-original-width="700" height="378" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfepT5WY0g8Zrlz03hP_0jlzF7S8bS9mZUmEZJx5J-VfdbKhj8yg9pDeWNbDX03a_pFrFjklf8vDm40nuntcCJ3qJQKbgSEVBukvrmbT7I9pmRnACfGCG9Lo4svkTyeWPFkqFLnk_MKtdBQtMQJ7qUzWJnkdDhlCBXpRIS3ZgLRNbIw4V8XPQ8VvEALg/w640-h378/a009%20P1490517.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>As the two vehicles speed by at 30 mph these 2 concerned citizens turn and watch, tut tuting all the time.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVvNnFN9QGYaaaQAos02lT-nQT0AtG43bu8sS5PWB2qjN1NUlypy1k-5MXvsuIhppPbVBgcoppEqua6AevQ_KX9nvNgvMPa6DUPyQTCxJ0EizHUW1YYzJPDhYr_n-1NTQI5Gkcp2NQ9hbeysxBlCr2OcJhK3LaeUtu_Xg4xES_cUAjMk6YT8lsnskUpw/s700/a010%20IMG_6118.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="467" data-original-width="700" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVvNnFN9QGYaaaQAos02lT-nQT0AtG43bu8sS5PWB2qjN1NUlypy1k-5MXvsuIhppPbVBgcoppEqua6AevQ_KX9nvNgvMPa6DUPyQTCxJ0EizHUW1YYzJPDhYr_n-1NTQI5Gkcp2NQ9hbeysxBlCr2OcJhK3LaeUtu_Xg4xES_cUAjMk6YT8lsnskUpw/w640-h426/a010%20IMG_6118.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Pulling a U turn in the middle of Main Street the small black car pulls up in front of the Bank in a small cloud of dust and the dark blue van parks inconspicuously by the side of the building.</div><div><br /></div><div>(This is the Mad Lords idea of inconspicuous)</div><div><br /></div><div>Two young, good looking and well dressed women climb out of the car and enter the Bank by the main door.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhW7Bn3IRCuyFWJPJhllLl7XlflHfBxIWBv5qc8WuUIwy_vccnBN73pqckkPPJbbLimFsSBsxCkcIwNsBHEmQGU-vJCTW3OulyZYJed_zPHlcmdRzF2wqQdR-61AdteGelsOu5NKgGrVHd-eMtwopkC140I3uEbOeKyuD-aqmYpN6ySs2D6Ein8lRm4Kg/s700/a011%20IMG_0462.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="416" data-original-width="700" height="380" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhW7Bn3IRCuyFWJPJhllLl7XlflHfBxIWBv5qc8WuUIwy_vccnBN73pqckkPPJbbLimFsSBsxCkcIwNsBHEmQGU-vJCTW3OulyZYJed_zPHlcmdRzF2wqQdR-61AdteGelsOu5NKgGrVHd-eMtwopkC140I3uEbOeKyuD-aqmYpN6ySs2D6Ein8lRm4Kg/w640-h380/a011%20IMG_0462.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Two rather wild eyed women leave the rear of the van and take up station by the back door of the bank but looking down the alley in the direction of the back door of the Sheriff’s Office. Another two follow them round to the door and wait.</div><div><br /></div><div>Inside the bank there’s a lot going on. One of the young women collapses on the floor and her companion shouts for help. The Guard looks perplexed but his English is poor and it is only when one of the Bank Tellers shouts for him to get the lady a chair that anything happens.</div><div><br /></div><div>The tall Asian woman says that’s not good enough, they are here to make a big deposit and must see the Bank Manager immediately.</div><div><br /></div><div>This doesn’t go down well with one of the Tellers but the other one goes to see Mr Grossman the Manager and he agrees that they must extend aid to the young ladies. The length of thigh that the one on the floor is showing might have had something to do with his decision or it might have just been a good dice roll. We’ll never know.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMHX3GZmsIAjYNcxBz9BX_AeBV1yR-0B4AAvRWXGkqVpNdqTI1kJiMbIASvhj1DtJFwpCIBph70qs9dy5q8F_YGXrGuikV29ZMDRVZPw_N05zukA304S84OLs67KXbgluUxKhRc__Y_kKmv5VCBbGN2Jqtf2j6qhPprb-j5fIXgCqTZNnwmFiJxYQwWA/s700/a012%20P1490515.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="547" data-original-width="700" height="500" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMHX3GZmsIAjYNcxBz9BX_AeBV1yR-0B4AAvRWXGkqVpNdqTI1kJiMbIASvhj1DtJFwpCIBph70qs9dy5q8F_YGXrGuikV29ZMDRVZPw_N05zukA304S84OLs67KXbgluUxKhRc__Y_kKmv5VCBbGN2Jqtf2j6qhPprb-j5fIXgCqTZNnwmFiJxYQwWA/w640-h500/a012%20P1490515.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Having invited them into the Office he had the good sense to keep the Bank Guard with him but as their story became a little wilder he decided they were up to no good and started to draw his pistol. He was slow and his Guard was slower, both were shot and wounded by these innocent looking women. Little did he know that he was dealing with the infamous leader of the Mabel Street Mob, Lian Su Smith and her able Lieutenant Nicole Boursier or he wouldn’t have been so quick to draw a gun on them.</div><div><br /></div><div>Grossman had left the key to the office door in the lock but the one to the outside door wasn’t there and so Lian and Nicole couldn’t let their confederates into the office. (This rather put a crimp into the initial plan of attack but don’t worry there was a contingency plan).</div><div><br /></div><div>The gunfire drew the two Bank Tellers to the Managers office door but by this time Lian had locked it and so they couldn’t get in. Probably just as well for them I guess.</div><div><br /></div><div>Anyway by the time they decided one of them should go and get the cops Nicole had frisked Grossman (I think it’s still acceptable in polite society) She’d found the key to the Banks back door and opened it to issue instructions to the rest of the Mob waiting impatiently outside.</div><div><br /></div><div>Nicole quickly realised that the safe was a large old fashioned one on a stand and not built into the wall, but it had a combination lock rather than a key and so she would have to get the combination from an unwilling and very brave Bank Manager.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIUlYsF8WJUcPeR5AEIq4wgKaGQAgIvuUzt3PtjezMTF_iQc6QHN9nCAs1Q-c0Jl4thI6R7tmeVDGp97nsspa-ozSdsfG7Ysj6GDv7K5KFCEaQ-2KpiQpwALW9k_2heGo_8iLesOS497ZK74EHW0ivGlceTVD18efHXoZoEhD9wT3oEM1fDmP0LM0s4g/s700/a013%20IMG_6119.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="304" data-original-width="700" height="278" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIUlYsF8WJUcPeR5AEIq4wgKaGQAgIvuUzt3PtjezMTF_iQc6QHN9nCAs1Q-c0Jl4thI6R7tmeVDGp97nsspa-ozSdsfG7Ysj6GDv7K5KFCEaQ-2KpiQpwALW9k_2heGo_8iLesOS497ZK74EHW0ivGlceTVD18efHXoZoEhD9wT3oEM1fDmP0LM0s4g/w640-h278/a013%20IMG_6119.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Faster than a striking rattler she issued instructions to her hench<strike>men</strike>, persons I mean. Loretta Solerno was sent to the front of the Bank to stop anyone leaving the premises and informing the Cops of the raid. She thought, rightly, that there was a chance the small calibre weapons hadn’t been heard.</div><div><br /></div><div>Nicole, on advice from Lian had tried to coerce the combination from Gutman, this wasn’t working, so she shot him in the leg to further her argument but he was a stubborn old man and refused to help.</div><div><br /></div><div>Quickly she evolved another plan, one as cunning as a fox and daft as it’s brush. Ruth Marriot was sent back to the van and reversed it round to the back door of the bank. Meanwhile Mad Patsie and Barbara Vasseur were still watched for any signs of the Cops emerging from the back door of the station.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPgskOjtqUt4T9Lia3dNc3gjqqPXA5bWXTosNfzeO6pReJXqdhaqEnh2eJb1N9sOwzoH09jdpfS15gp7VQNN87kv2DJsLnSyAgsXl1mmDy_DzoVWZPJDoGmuI2voqUR4Wi-rNUy6Kn9pfLfLOMQBkWEl7fBJuG28V3TDkhc-c8hn9F23WgrHeubdHj6g/s700/a014%20P1490522.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="488" data-original-width="700" height="446" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPgskOjtqUt4T9Lia3dNc3gjqqPXA5bWXTosNfzeO6pReJXqdhaqEnh2eJb1N9sOwzoH09jdpfS15gp7VQNN87kv2DJsLnSyAgsXl1mmDy_DzoVWZPJDoGmuI2voqUR4Wi-rNUy6Kn9pfLfLOMQBkWEl7fBJuG28V3TDkhc-c8hn9F23WgrHeubdHj6g/w640-h446/a014%20P1490522.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Loretta arrived at the front door of the Bank just in time to see one of the Bank Teller’s leaving. She opened her coat displaying the Thompson SMG hidden under it and the Teller decided that discretion was the better part of valour and moved back into the bank.</div><div><br /></div><div>Unfortunately for Loretta there was another woman by the bank door. She was an undistinguished bystander but didn’t like Loretta strong-arming the Teller and so she stepped in. Loretta was disinclined to pull the Thompson out into the open for anyone to see it so she punched the bystander, Amelia Eckard. Who punched her back. These two were fairly ineffectual fist fighters and so it took quite a while to reach a conclusion but the conclusion was Loretta laying on the boardwalk nursing a bloody nose.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPqnwJClxP-BXcpWJTok6t2SJitIB6uWAsmWjdgbjkYJUcg_4umFxiidTvBbrd5fk3SvoLvE4r8qEl1UXsnBgwx6I73BcKzyFzhIjLDrEuubJ5nq3oDf6t2anT92rER548K18g84BW3-3mLl7a0fl7M_8qapeVAsoA37XdH6k-zq5n8WHfK-MhKDl3zg/s700/a015%20P1490523.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="525" data-original-width="700" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPqnwJClxP-BXcpWJTok6t2SJitIB6uWAsmWjdgbjkYJUcg_4umFxiidTvBbrd5fk3SvoLvE4r8qEl1UXsnBgwx6I73BcKzyFzhIjLDrEuubJ5nq3oDf6t2anT92rER548K18g84BW3-3mLl7a0fl7M_8qapeVAsoA37XdH6k-zq5n8WHfK-MhKDl3zg/w640-h480/a015%20P1490523.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>The two concerned citizens had hurried across the street to inform the cops of the fist fight in progress on the boardwalk in front of the Bank but they needn’t have rushed because 2 of the cops burst out through the door, guns in hand before they arrived.</div><div><br /></div><div>They had already been told that the Mabel Street Mob were in town by one of the first concerned citizens who’d recognised the driver of the small black car and rushed to inform the law.</div><div><br /></div><div>There are a lot of concerned citizens in Little Whiskey.</div><div><br /></div><div>“Blasted busy bodies” the Mad Lord was heard to mutter quietly under his breath.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYK2XlZDBzTTVMawhkI7xNhFoGeVzRr5rP1LAFDZ2zd_SO8Yp9AmS1EqeRcSi8yDWy56fz3MpAb-XCbE1mxS_o95vV8qUrgvjO68_GavmktheatmRkIoiKdKyuXlolb-QkZZPMXfVnxxthwYLmPG9x7L_TMdhSzegRKTIWfcMFHyNy4T5FDD_EEfuwkA/s700/a016%20IMG_6121.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="493" data-original-width="700" height="450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYK2XlZDBzTTVMawhkI7xNhFoGeVzRr5rP1LAFDZ2zd_SO8Yp9AmS1EqeRcSi8yDWy56fz3MpAb-XCbE1mxS_o95vV8qUrgvjO68_GavmktheatmRkIoiKdKyuXlolb-QkZZPMXfVnxxthwYLmPG9x7L_TMdhSzegRKTIWfcMFHyNy4T5FDD_EEfuwkA/w640-h450/a016%20IMG_6121.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>“Gordon Bennett” was his next utterance as 3 more figures erupted from the back door. They were led by the redoubtable Captain Andy Donovan. ‘Big Andy’ to his troops. As usual he led from somewhere in the middle, figuring rather large Walter would provide a big enough shield in case there was any gun play.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrpsrapFL_3l6LkBG9HR2rYGTQ3x45faI9oE0hZQaIcL7NUA7WKqkE096Ys1qxB1itdeMBAtIW14W9F_c2EuzDq360wpWctyvNOfBjq8eVzkE35ewgBKcM8YsJc23FTYuuz6M5Mw04hQvISXlJlToh1y1HaN0Y-ZlpJTDhDodwwbJUTlrAqL_Io2kp5w/s700/a017%20IMG_6122.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="413" data-original-width="700" height="378" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrpsrapFL_3l6LkBG9HR2rYGTQ3x45faI9oE0hZQaIcL7NUA7WKqkE096Ys1qxB1itdeMBAtIW14W9F_c2EuzDq360wpWctyvNOfBjq8eVzkE35ewgBKcM8YsJc23FTYuuz6M5Mw04hQvISXlJlToh1y1HaN0Y-ZlpJTDhDodwwbJUTlrAqL_Io2kp5w/w640-h378/a017%20IMG_6122.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>He was wrong.</div><div><br /></div><div>I’ve reported before about Barbara’s skill with the shotgun and the apple pips so I won’t repeat that witticism here but when the smoke drifted away there were only 2 women standing. They quickly made their way into the Police Station intending to outflank any trouble on Main Street.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguuZ-HOe022_TRC-ygy5lw4oB6rKnB2v8_vG5YLldBtoLzskZ_HG-yOI9B_pcFOh5c8-RwYN1ts0Nrsl2RQMMcRCRkPmR-_-ticoXKQbyuFS4v-cfyZtCrp4p4Yv7ezW2REXoYjjtsuhdlx9n9HSUL2B6N_-vOUBBnovFQttyXZDHr-08ITlhaPhPk9g/s700/a018%20P1490527.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="538" data-original-width="700" height="492" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguuZ-HOe022_TRC-ygy5lw4oB6rKnB2v8_vG5YLldBtoLzskZ_HG-yOI9B_pcFOh5c8-RwYN1ts0Nrsl2RQMMcRCRkPmR-_-ticoXKQbyuFS4v-cfyZtCrp4p4Yv7ezW2REXoYjjtsuhdlx9n9HSUL2B6N_-vOUBBnovFQttyXZDHr-08ITlhaPhPk9g/w640-h492/a018%20P1490527.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>This turned out just as badly for them as it had for the cops. Big Jim had been left to hold the fort. He was hit in the exchange of gunfire but treated the shotgun pellets with distain, drawing his side arm he shot Barbara and she went down. Patsie was taken by surprise at shots coming through the window, “by heck, that was a surprise’ she thought sinking to the floor.</div><div><br /></div><div>Jim looked at the window and the broken glass on the floor and the blood on the floor and the 2 wounded women on the floor and thought ‘bugger I’ve got a lot of cleaning up to do’.</div><div><br /></div><div>Out on Main Street there was a rat-a-tat sound as a full magazine of .45 bullets were fired off indiscriminately from Loretta’s Thompson.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGxKAcaWD4UeyIdxW2iIYZ3yL7BqaoP9ZGCJem7OaAmz-BL4WXfQjWATZDXe38cHifpt8BWhnD3Qt0LakmbhS1PirMzo0LZF4ukg1HKaWU0Xb3QsRh2HgyoVg-XijLIGkzxDv5NFXX2xSnSiDxWYCcOGY38sDQfVvUCY7fQ08l4V33KoXX12Z2PR4tjg/s700/a019%20P1490526.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="469" data-original-width="700" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGxKAcaWD4UeyIdxW2iIYZ3yL7BqaoP9ZGCJem7OaAmz-BL4WXfQjWATZDXe38cHifpt8BWhnD3Qt0LakmbhS1PirMzo0LZF4ukg1HKaWU0Xb3QsRh2HgyoVg-XijLIGkzxDv5NFXX2xSnSiDxWYCcOGY38sDQfVvUCY7fQ08l4V33KoXX12Z2PR4tjg/w640-h428/a019%20P1490526.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Loretta had decided to stop playing nice and as she rolled onto her knees she blasted Amelia Eckhart. Then shot Policewoman Juanita Aguila - dead. In the fusillade of shots Policeman Norman Grumach had also fallen but he’s tough and was slowly getting to his feet.</div><div><br /></div><div>Rev Green and the concerned citizens looked on in horror before taking to their heel.</div><div><br /></div><div>Really concerned now.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3OZuWCcaz1zlmFKzzoQLjDsKxkvDBCCbfNAjF330RL2Z18EMRJCSgv--dUuC98K_oRtPUoKsNv1J_fbCVmz_cTumK8BY2KBvshn7mIer3QmT6l8T_o2HN-C2NcFDS8PO-dqsnpyKYfg3p7Lw1NuD_ylAflTysqhlKi2KcDTxB5TN_WXWJMZta99ZJHg/s700/a020%20IMG_6126.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="485" data-original-width="700" height="444" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3OZuWCcaz1zlmFKzzoQLjDsKxkvDBCCbfNAjF330RL2Z18EMRJCSgv--dUuC98K_oRtPUoKsNv1J_fbCVmz_cTumK8BY2KBvshn7mIer3QmT6l8T_o2HN-C2NcFDS8PO-dqsnpyKYfg3p7Lw1NuD_ylAflTysqhlKi2KcDTxB5TN_WXWJMZta99ZJHg/w640-h444/a020%20IMG_6126.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Loretta slid another magazine into the Thompson as she slowly walked towards the struggling Policeman, before firing a long burst at close range and poor Norman struggled no more.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnDPQ4l4TbM2-M5cHLsHw7JOvZlwqUt2Wk5Z6EPXwtoKzmy8rlWBuoMBCmqg7Zk9RxwKH7KGGF1CKR0K_NQS4RSkGruLmQHlenOadixHv1VFDpQCBY0IPIixadqgJr3isOawKIeDaLdjcV3aGp__1z1-JoH_w5vO2ag6LmtvzVE4PLJAxS_1XXE7weOg/s700/a021%20P1490529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="434" data-original-width="700" height="396" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnDPQ4l4TbM2-M5cHLsHw7JOvZlwqUt2Wk5Z6EPXwtoKzmy8rlWBuoMBCmqg7Zk9RxwKH7KGGF1CKR0K_NQS4RSkGruLmQHlenOadixHv1VFDpQCBY0IPIixadqgJr3isOawKIeDaLdjcV3aGp__1z1-JoH_w5vO2ag6LmtvzVE4PLJAxS_1XXE7weOg/w640-h396/a021%20P1490529.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>My apologies, in the excitement I forgot to inform you of the cunning plan to break into the safe without the Bank Managers help.</div><div><br /></div><div>As usual with the Mad Lords plans it was simple and complex, all at the same time. They would drive the blue van up to the back door of the bank and attach the tow chain to the safe and then pull it out of the bank.</div><div><br /></div><div>What tow chain I asked, and was informed that they had cleverly taken one with them, for just such eventualities you know – well you would – wouldn’t you. Snapcase smiled an ironic smile when he announced this, but it soon turned to a frown when I asked how long the chain was. We threw some dice and decided it wouldn’t reach.</div><div><br /></div><div>In a blink of an eye there was another plan, an oven ready plan no less.</div><div><br /></div><div>Ruth Marriot has been instructed to drive the blue van - at speed - through the back door and window of the bank. She had to do this in reverse so that they could use the, too short, tow chain.</div><div><br /></div><div>Snapcase had a gleam in his eye when he proposed this plan and the gleam became a beam of triumph when Ruth didn’t damage the vehicle in this exploit. Banks ain’t what they used to be you know.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgNCyS42Dvpo4xY4Lhwydyw-5D6blIUtiQGHHP7uWt2X7I6L4alJhh1gFEdGEL4oAlsoOIGI6TGW7LmYMxBwEx1FpfFYP2xtskKN5Fku_NPBMSuLQ_qn_r7jOVlIlq4czxD1mID2zUYR-v1zP0PMN0hbH04ujpmXPZFV5eVu9IwWWfwqcKqQwnMKbWsA/s700/a022%20IMG_6125.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="409" data-original-width="700" height="374" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgNCyS42Dvpo4xY4Lhwydyw-5D6blIUtiQGHHP7uWt2X7I6L4alJhh1gFEdGEL4oAlsoOIGI6TGW7LmYMxBwEx1FpfFYP2xtskKN5Fku_NPBMSuLQ_qn_r7jOVlIlq4czxD1mID2zUYR-v1zP0PMN0hbH04ujpmXPZFV5eVu9IwWWfwqcKqQwnMKbWsA/w640-h374/a022%20IMG_6125.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Driving forwards slowly so as not to rip the back axle off the truck Ruth has pulled the safe out of the bank and then set off down the alley behind Main Street, Lian’s sat in the passenger seat ensuring she goes in the right direction.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjS8RJthaPHmNjppdaCW_Nm23_NgCUgDPhG_iphbzkyJ4OC5o_vQ4X_kl4uCoBY22n_kOWHjfbAssL37fGacfP9WrHDEUF1cBDjJ3xIoeB22OvCH5qfFIUHwyjgEA503TYEM11U9cH8vCNdoK5wk0oBRmuuQQEpJ1A8_wfx774qa0qyxjFTbLeaRf7tig/s700/a023%20P1490532.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="525" data-original-width="700" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjS8RJthaPHmNjppdaCW_Nm23_NgCUgDPhG_iphbzkyJ4OC5o_vQ4X_kl4uCoBY22n_kOWHjfbAssL37fGacfP9WrHDEUF1cBDjJ3xIoeB22OvCH5qfFIUHwyjgEA503TYEM11U9cH8vCNdoK5wk0oBRmuuQQEpJ1A8_wfx774qa0qyxjFTbLeaRf7tig/w640-h480/a023%20P1490532.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>Nicole with a sideways glance at the brave but bashed about Bank Manager also leaves by the back door and calmly walks around to the small black parked car. Loretta is still kicking Norman in the head even though the poor fellow can’t feel anything.</div><div><br /></div><div>Never underestimate the vengance of a Sicilian woman when she’s upset.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQHYqpdUAtQ-YVdY8yEWlN6OD-Iyab5cti85PDU7IRNkVWAZ1RV9X8jffHQmsxM1y7bSS_tn0_uDfb8NW0Ko0uBea5CZ0uXQVYzYi6l5h26DaUejS-x6XtyNekz7JEOtxqLZGqiUlVGNCu8XHbjNK4GAl3giIo0IejFBOEa8pTUx3PynxeO6RTuhc1ew/s700/a024%20P1490534.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="415" data-original-width="700" height="380" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQHYqpdUAtQ-YVdY8yEWlN6OD-Iyab5cti85PDU7IRNkVWAZ1RV9X8jffHQmsxM1y7bSS_tn0_uDfb8NW0Ko0uBea5CZ0uXQVYzYi6l5h26DaUejS-x6XtyNekz7JEOtxqLZGqiUlVGNCu8XHbjNK4GAl3giIo0IejFBOEa8pTUx3PynxeO6RTuhc1ew/w640-h380/a024%20P1490534.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div>“Come on” shouts Nicole as she guns the engine, “I’m taking this” Loretta replies as she gets into the police car and they drive off down Main Street.</div><div><br /></div><div>THE END</div><div><br /></div><div>Post script: You see the chap in the maroon jacket laying by the roadside, well he was the one who had informed the police that he recognised the Mob as they drove to the bank. Loretta ran him down on her way out of town.</div><div><br /></div><div>Never underestimate the vengance of a Sicilian woman when she’s upset.</div><div><br /></div><div>Another wild and woolly game, enlivened by the Mad Lords unpredictable plans although he’s predictable when revenge is called for 😈 there’s no doubt about that.</div><div><br /></div><div>Well the Mob need a safe cracker to open the safe once they’ve dragged it out of town but Mad Patsie is the Mob’s expert in this matter. She does like fire and explosions but unfortunately she’s back in jail with Barbara Vasseur both of them in need of medical attention.</div><div><br /></div><div>I guess there’s only one thing to do. 😀</div>Vagabondhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14031648950206231742noreply@blogger.com4