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File: BrokenEmpireSeigeCover.jpg (365 KB, 940x940)
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The Emperor is dead and with him the Empire has followed. What was once a glorious civilization has splintered and crumbled. Once Noble Nobles now scramble for any inch of land they can keep underneath their thumbs, while bandits from within and invader from without threaten to tear away any last semblance of order.

You are Ursula von Sternberg, the daughter of a noble house along the Iron Coast, and you lead your own mercenary company by the name of the White Dragons. Composed of veterans you've built up over previous contracts, they're tough, rough, and you wouldn't have 'em any other way.

Leading every charge are the Blackshields, heavy infantry armored in half-plate and mail and armed with either shields and heavy blades for the frontline or wicked polearms for the supporting ranks. They fight in brutal lockstep and with a coordination that only comes from countless drills. More than one enemy assault has routed when faced with their steel and Aegrin, the man with more in common with a bear and wielding a Greataxe to match, is more than happy to test their mettle.

Providing covering fire and skirmishing are the K'Voss, light infantry armored in reinforced leathers and armed with a multitude of melee weapons, shields, and heavy crossbow. They prefer to set up above their targets and rain steel down upon their foes, but they have and will get stuck in if a force approaches their firing lines. Vahxil, a seasoned woman from the deserts of Ahkasji, is responsible for guiding their volleys to best strike at your foes.

Your newest recruits are two platoons of Caedian Pikemen, lead by the Sergeants Volk and Marcus. Armed with iron pikes and armored in scale mail, these medium infantry show some amount of promise in your eyes. For now, only Silver and food keeps them from reverting back to the broken men you found them as. In time, though, you'll make something out of these sorry lot.

And last are the Linebreakers, Heavy cavalry armored in chain mail and armed with everything from warhammers to lances. They are your personal unit, leading from the front atop your prized mount Tempest, and they know no fear in the face of your enemies. Between smashing enemy positions, cutting off retreats, and just generally being the Hammer to the Blackshield's Anvil, the Linebreakers are your rapid response.

>Cont.

Previous Threads: http://suptg.thisisnotatrueending.com/qstarchive.html?tags=Broken%20Empire%20Quest
>>
>>3704249

You are currently in the town of Capol, the breadbasket of Sekan. It appears that the farmers here have formed a militia to defend themselves from Horse Raiders, but from the way the mayor has been more than willing to pay you perhaps they haven’t been so successful. As decent of a deal that’s been offered already, you can always do better.

“I’d like to request two other provisions be added to the contract: one, we recieve a supply of grain and we be given a place to base ourselves within the town. Both are for the duration of the contract, naturally,” You’ve seen plenty of grainaries on the way to the negotiating table, so you imagine the first request will be easy enough. The second though, is a different story, so it is to your well-hidden surprise that the mayor easily nods in response.

He motions for his son to continue writing as he speaks, “Yes, yes, a grain ration is easily enough to provide. As for housing, you can use the estate to the north-west. It was once the home of a Caedian diplomat, but he ran off once his precious emperor bit the dust. In exchange for these two, I will add the rider that you and your men are not to purposefully harm any of the townsfolk.”

The son finishes scribbling away before he pushes the contract over you to review before signing.

Contract with Capol
> The White Dragon Company shall defend the township and people of Capol against all threats.
> The White Dragon Company shall be paid in Silver for their service. Additionally, they shall be supplied a grain ration and residence.
> Riders: The White Dragon Company shall not bring harm to any of the residents of Capol.
> Signers: Sir Oleg Madejski, Captain Ursula von Sternberg

Accept the Contract?
> Y
> N
>>
>>3704288
>Y
Wasn't planning on harming any townspeople anyways, let's just make sure to communicate the importance of this to our men. We can't lose our payment because someone decided it was a good idea to rape a farmers daughter.
>>
>Y
>>
>>3704288
>> Y
>>
>>3704288
>> Y
>>
>>3704288
>> N
Taking over the town seems more profitable
>>
>>3704288
>> Y
>>
>>3704288
>Y
It’s easy money. These horsemen don’t know who they’re fucking with.
>>
>>3704288
>Y
>>
QM fucking deadass?
>>
>>3704976
Nah he usually posts in around 7 hours from now
>>
>>3704976
Timezoned probably
>>
>>3705080
Friendzoned probably
>>
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>>3704976

First posts went up before I went to work so I could get the thread back up and running. Can't post during work, sadly.

>>3704296
>>3704309
>>3704313
>>3704708
>>3704782
>>3704783
>>3704964
>>3704288

Looking over the contract, you find no loopholes or vague statements that could be misinterpreted. It is simple and direct, the best part being that you are in full command of your Company on the field of battle. The mayor may request an escort for any trade caravans if he hears back from his contacts in other towns, but when the chips are down your word is as good as law.

As you and Oleg sign off at the bottom, his son returns with two lumps of hot wax. Both of you stamp your personal seals alongside your signatures. The young man sets aside the first before presenting the second, which is finished just the same.

The paperwork settled and your copy in hand, you stand and speak your Oath, "I, Ursula von Sternberg, with my Company of the White Dragons, make a solemn vow to fight to the death for the sake of Sir Oleg Madejski and the township of Capol!"

The mayor looks to his son for a moment, a flicker of what might be relief passing across his face, before responding, "Leon, take the Captain here to the old manor and give her the keys."

You roll up your copy, the wax already having cooled, and slip it into one of the hard pouches along your hip. Leon eyes you coolly, but you motion for him to lead on. Outside not much has changed, though you see several people whispering conspiratorially as you walk by. It isn't far to the manor in question, being just about the only other homestead in Capol that has a second floor. The grounds show the signs of not being maintained in some time and some parts of the masonry could use work, but on the whole the structure, a bit larger than two barns put together, will suit your Company nicely. Leon palms a ring of keys before walking off, leaving you to consider what to do next.

> Cont.
>>
>>3706232

> At this point, I will give you all the choice of how to spend your time in Capol and what to do with your platoons. While Aegrin, Vaxhil, Sergeant Volk, and Sergeant Marcus will stay with their respective troops, you have yourself and Victor that you can assign to aid in a given choice.

White Dragon Company Forces:
> Blackshield Halberdiers (Spearmen) (Veterans) (100/100) (+2 Armor and +2 Bonus against Cavalry)
> K'Voss Sharpshooters (Skirmishers/Crossbowmen) (Veterans) (200/200) (+2 Bonus and 1 Armor Pen while firing Heavy Crossbows)
> Linebreakers (Heavy Cavalry) (Veterans) (50/50) (+3 Bonus to Enemies in Defensive Formations. Causes Enemies to Rout.)
> Caedian Pikemen (Spearmen) (Experienced/Weary) (200/200)

You assign your troops to:
> Training
> Fortifying the Manor
> Entrenching the perimeter of Capol
> Scouting the region around Capol
> Scouting Zackasky (Township, controlled by Horse Raider Cohort)
> Diplomatic mission to Islinth (Sole City of Sekan, Trading Center)
> Diplomatic mission to Levola (Township, Industrial Center)
> Other

Add to one Choice Each:
> Captain Ursula von Sternberg (Leadership: +3, Silver Tongue: +3, Engineering: +3)
> Victor Weidmann (Engineering: +???)
>>
>>3706324
Really liking this Quest and setting. Been following this one pretty closely.

We should assign our Blackshields and a unit of Pikemen to training, making sure that the pikemen are running the same drills as the Blackshields. Our K’vossi and the other unit of pikemen should focus on reinforcing and improving the perimeter of the township under our direct supervision. trenches and sharpened stakes should do wonders to put off encroaching horse raiders.

Our LineBreakers should patrol around town and the perimeter, giving a sense of security to the town and a hint of who is the real power in town.
>>
>>3706324
> Blackshield Halberdiers (Spearmen) (Veterans) (100/100) (+2 Armor and +2 Bonus against Cavalry)
> Victor Weidmann (Engineering: +???)
> Fortifying the Manor

> Linebreakers (Heavy Cavalry) (Veterans) (50/50) (+3 Bonus to Enemies in Defensive Formations. Causes Enemies to Rout.)
> Captain Ursula von Sternberg (Leadership: +3, Silver Tongue: +3, Engineering: +3)
> Scouting the region around Capol
>>
>>3706324
> Linebreakers (Heavy Cavalry) (Veterans) (50/50) (+3 Bonus to Enemies in Defensive Formations. Causes Enemies to Rout.)
Patrol the Town

> Blackshield Halberdiers (Spearmen) (Veterans) (100/100) (+2 Armor and +2 Bonus against Cavalry)
> Caedian Pikemen (Spearmen) (Experienced/Weary) (200/200)
> Captain Ursula von Sternberg (Leadership: +3, Silver Tongue: +3, Engineering: +3)
Training

> K'Voss Sharpshooters (Skirmishers/Crossbowmen) (Veterans) (200/200) (+2 Bonus and 1 Armor Pen while firing Heavy Crossbows)
> Victor Weidmann (Engineering: +???)
Entrenching the perimeter of Capol

I also want us to explore the town a bit and make ourselves comfortable in the Manor. It's not everyday a merc captain gets comfortable lodgings for ourself.
>>
>>3706405
Support
I'd like to see more mundane daily life stuff and more of our personal thoughts
>>
>>3706383

Good to hear that you are enjoying it.

>>3706362

Don't forget to include actions for the K'Voss and the Caedian Pikemen.

>>3706405
>>3706455

If you guys want scenes of mundane life, let me know specifically what interactions you want to see. I've been keeping the mundane to a minimum, because I assumed anons wanted more of a focus on the combat and Company Management, but if you all want to see specific stuff then I'll be sure to include it at some point.
>>
>>3706504
>If you guys want scenes of mundane life, let me know specifically what interactions you want to see. I've been keeping the mundane to a minimum, because I assumed anons wanted more of a focus on the combat and Company Management, but if you all want to see specific stuff then I'll be sure to include it at some point.
A nice balance of business and the mundane would be great. Getting to know the new Sergeants, fraternizing with our men, getting comfy at the manor, and other things you can come up with QM.
>>
>>3706324
> Blackshield Halberdiers (Spearmen) (Veterans) (100/100) (+2 Armor and +2 Bonus against Cavalry)
> Caedian Pikemen (Spearmen) (Experienced/Weary) (200/200)
> Training

> K'Voss Sharpshooters (Skirmishers/Crossbowmen) (Veterans) (200/200) (+2 Bonus and 1 Armor Pen while firing Heavy Crossbows)
> Victor Weidmann (Engineering: +???)
> Entrenching the perimeter of Capol
> Fortifying the Manor
Have crossbows and engineer working on both


> Captain Ursula von Sternberg (Leadership: +3, Silver Tongue: +3, Engineering: +3)
> Scouting the region around Capol
>>
>>3706504
>If you guys want scenes of mundane life, let me know specifically what interactions you want to see

Whatever you’re comfortable with Qm. The various interactions between our company, various townsfolk and our officers would be neat
>>
>>3706324
> Linebreakers (Heavy Cavalry)
> Scouting the region around Capol

> Blackshield Halberdiers (Spearmen)
> Entrenching the perimeter of Capol

> Victor Weidmann (Engineering: +???)
> K'Voss Sharpshooters (Skirmishers/Crossbowmen)
> Fortifying the Manor

> Captain Ursula von Sternberg (Leadership: +3, Silver Tongue: +3, Engineering: +3)
> Caedian Pikemen (Spearmen) (Experienced/Weary) (200/200)
> Training
>>
>>3706504
Watching from our manor the farmers and workers go about daily life, farming, moving stuff, milling, talking, kids playing.

Watch the militia do their militia thing, and maybe laugh, then ,maybe give some pointers.

watch families and neighbors interact with one another.

Speak to any farmers or hunters if they have any, and people who leave the town outskirts and return.

This can be spread out over several posts of us staying in Capol.
>>
>>3706504
What the other anons said + going shopping for equipment, getting to know the factions of interest in the town and everyday life with locals.

>>3706687
Going scouting one is suicidal
>>
Speaking of militia do we have permission to raise and train the militia from the townsmen?
>>
>>3706687

While you can split up the K'Voss between two tasks, you will need to decide on one or the other for Victor to focus on.

And I'm assuming you'd be bringing the Linebreakers along with you for Scouting since you haven't got them down anywhere else.

>>3706725
>>3706692

I will keep these in mind for the future.

>>3706748

If there is a direct assault against Capol, the militia will join the battle. However, they are assuming that you all will be doing most of the heavy lifting when it comes to combat; that is the entire reason behind hiring the Company in the first place, after all.

As for training them, sure you could speak with Leon about arranging something with the men that aren't working in the fields at the moment. Keep in mind that the overwhelming majority of them are in plainclothes, armed with pitchforks, and are really only a fighting force when defending their homesteads.
>>
>>3706806
I would say have Victor help with fortifying the town

>>3706736
Your right I forgot to put the line breakers in but they should join the scouting.
>>
>>3706405
+1 but can we divide the K'Voss so half of them fortify our manor and the other half entrench the town.
>>3706504
If the players can't understand a character then they won't get attached to them. More interactions with our officer and soldiers, and more contemplative thoughts from the MC perspective. I think the first thread is a good example for it.
>>
>>3706806
Do we have a squire or batman who cleans our stuff and takes care of our horse? If we don't we should get one.
>>
>>3706692
So this where you been hinding hmmmm
>>
>>3706982
>+1 but can we divide the K'Voss so half of them fortify our manor and the other half entrench the town.
Sure
>>
>>3706989

Your 2nd among the Linebreakers takes care of your horse and you give your equipment a wipe down before going to sleep. I'll include him into the story at some point, probably one of the upcoming scenes.

Vote Tally is:

Blackshields
> Training: 5
> Entrenching the perimeter of Capol: 1

K'Voss
> 50/50 Entrench/Fortify: 4
> Fortify: 2

Linebreakers
> Scouting/Patrolling the region around Capol: 6

Caedian Pikemen
> Training: 6

Ursula
> Training: 4
> Scouting: 1

Victor
> Entrenching: 4
> Fortifying: 3

> Roll 6d20's. First 4 are BO3, Last 2 are BO2. I'll add modifiers after the fact.
>>
Rolled 13, 16, 3, 10, 8, 16 = 66 (6d20)

>>3707498
>>
Rolled 2, 15, 12, 3, 8, 5 = 45 (6d20)

>>3707498
>>
Rolled 10, 17, 1, 18, 1, 13 = 60 (6d20)

>>3707498
>>
>>3707507
>>3707554
>>3707557

> Blackshields: 13+3= 16 for Training
> K’Voss: 17+4= 21 for Entrenching
> K’Voss: Crit Fail for Fortifying
> Linebreakers: 18 for Patroling around Capol
> Caedian Pikemen (Volk): 8+3= 11 for Training
> Caedian Pikemen (Marcus): 16+3= 19 for Training

Well, the good news is that there was only one crit fail. The next series of updates will certainly be interesting.

While Volk’s Platoon is getting back into the swing of things, Marcus’ is making leaps and bounds to the point where you can begin more specialized training. You focus on training them for:
> Assault (Armor/Bonus while Charging)
> Defense (Armor/Bonus while Entrenched)
> Skirmishing (Mobility/Bonus to Javalins)
> Write in

Considering the next update won’t be for a while, feel free to discuss if you want something else for your pikemen to train into. For example, you could have them become Blackshield Auxiliaries.
>>
>>3707602
*cough* Volk critically failed
Or do one do not overwrite other numbers in training?
>>
>>3707606

BO2 for the last two rolls.
>>
>>3707602
> Assault (Armor/Bonus while Charging)
> Skirmishing (Mobility/Bonus to Javalins)
Probably more of the latter.
What about Roman style Infantry?
>>
>>3707602
>Defense
That is a roll we still haven't filled, as the the black shields are more open field anti cav and not fortification defense. Our ranged and hammer is good, some more people to properly hold the line are a nice addition.
>>
>>3707602
>> Defense (Armor/Bonus while Entrenched)
>>
>>3707602
>Defense (Armor/Bonus while Entrenched)
>>
>>3707602
>> Assault (Armor/Bonus while Charging)
>>
>>3707602
>> Assault (Armor/Bonus while Charging)
They should be used to support the Linebreakers
>>
>>3707602
>> Assault (Armor/Bonus while Charging)
>>
>>3704249
>>3707602
Excuse the intrusion, but with your 3rd thread your quest has made it into the quest timeline. Do you have any preference for the image to mark its place in it or should I just use the OP's?
>>
>>3709450

Whichever one works best for you, I suppose.

>>3707660
>>3707665
>>3708244

Defense

>>3707651
>>3708417
>>3709042
>>3709175

Assault

Looks like Assault is the one to take it, narrow as it is.

The next few updates will include some of those requested mundane scenes, as well as the 'mundane' scene of that K'Voss critfail.
>>
>>3707602

Township of Capol, Outskirts

The sounds of men shouting and screaming fill the air, occasionally cut off as one tackles another into the mud. Sergeant Volk and Sergeant Marcus are in the thick of it, bellowing out orders to their men as the go through the various exercises you devised for them. It is the same wringer that you put the Blackshields through, so it is only natural that Aegrin and his boys are there to show the Caedians how its done.

The giant man himself is laughing and grinning as he slogs through the muck of the unseeded field you requisitioned for training grounds. A wooden wall, assembled from the supply wagon it had been collecting dust in, is an easy obstacle to Aegrin as he nearly reaches the top of it just standing up; the three pikemen from Volk's platoon have no such advantages and none of the three make it up on their first attempt. As the older Sergeant chews them out for slowing down, they scramble to help one another up and over. Slowly but surely they're getting there.

What's far more promising is where Marcus has his men performing dead sprints in full kit, minus the pikes naturally. There are no complicated obstacles in their way, they've already completed them to a satisfactory degree some days ago, but their run includes the incline that's been created by the K'Voss. With Victor at the helm, they've made great strides in turning the open edges of Capol's fields into an entrenched hell for anyone stupid enough to assail them. For Marcus' men, that means that there are plenty of mounts of loose soil to run their exercises on. While so many men in armor would normally trample the soil smooth and compact, Victor's made sure to have the K'Voss heap fresh soil on the tracks.

When the platoon reaches the end of the 'track' and collapses as Sergeant Marcus quietly gives them a five minute break, he subtly looks over and nods to you. You'd noticed it as well, mentally counting away as they ran: they'd broken their previous record. You smile as you watch Aegrin and several Blackshields 'spar' against Sergeant Volk's platoon, thankfully in padded equipment but that does little to lessen the force behind your subordinate's fists. Things are progressing along nicely here.

If only that was true elsewhere.
>>
>>3710164

Township of Capol, White Dragon Company Manor

Surprisingly enough, the Manor was in better condition than anticipated. Sure, the outer masonry needed some work, but the walls were solid, the roof had no visible signs of damage, and the previous occupant had left most of his furniture. That meant that your quarters had a fully-stocked office and bed with sheets. After the last several years of living on the road, this is damn near a return to the luxury you enjoyed in your youth.

Raising the White Dragon's Banner above the ramparts had stirred in you such a feeling of nostalgia, to see your family's crest raised once more. Even in such a small town as Capol, where the son of the mayor works in the fields, you are more proud than ever of how far you, and the Company, have come.

The sound of merriment echoes into the darkening sky, as your men eat their nightly meal in large circles around a crackling fire pit. Jokes are traded, cheers and jeers raised in equal measure, and on every last one of their faces is the kind of happiness that comes with knowing that you won't have to worry about being caught in a rainstorm while you sleep. A warm meal, a cold mug of ale, and the promise of silver; the three foundations of good morale and you have all of them in abundance currently.

Stirring yourself a cup of tea, another luxury you never thought you'd enjoy again, you're about to take your first sip when there's a series of dull thumps from outside your door. You pause, grabbing the sword you always keep on your person, and are about to shout out when there is a sinister crack from above.

Then Vaxhil crashes into your desk.

You just stare blankly as the tan woman pushes herself up, meets your gaze, and immediately snaps to attention.

"Captain."

"Vaxhil."

"I can explain," Her words are slightly less reassuring as she picks several chunks of wood out of her hair.

You look up at the hole in your office's ceiling, where another K'Voss Trooper tries to duck out of sight before you spot him, before looking back down, "I'd love to hear it, after you get off my desk."

> 1 Unit of K'Voss Sharpshooters (90/100)
>>
>>3710278

> I need to leave things here for the night, tomorrow will continue with a few more scenes. I'm thinking one of a few of the townsfolks watching the Linebreakers on patrol, going with your 2nd to meet with the militia and Leon, and one or two others if I think of them. Aside from them, we will continue the story shortly.
>>
>>3710278
Does the 90/100 mean that they are killed or just out of action for a while?
>>3710300
Thanks qm. Some more ideas, a town like this would have an active social life so we could try to socialize with the important people here in balls and parties. A few mundane decisions to accompany the scenes would be neat too.
>>
>>3710394
The -10 means we lost 10 people who fell from a rooftop and died.

j/k its probably %10 of that units overall integrity.
>>
>>3710278
10 people who ended up with a sprained ankle or a dislocated shoulder from the fall. We did not invent OSHA standards yet.
>>
I'd forgotten to do so during the relevant post, but here's the results of Sergeant Marcus' training.

> Caedian Shock Pikemen (Spearmen) (Experienced) (100/100) (+1 Armor and +1 Bonus while Charging)

>>3710738

Originally, I was under this impression as well. However, the original OP noted that the Linebreakers had the [50/50] notation, so assume that those numbers reflect the actual number of troops in each 'group'. For ease of use, I've dubbed them all as 'platoons' for lack of better term. If anyone has a better term let me know, as Squadrons are far too small a nomination and Company has the opposite issue in addition to being, well, your entire Mercenary outfit.

>>3710394

For the first, >>3712042 has it just about in one. Nothing too serious, especially with Doc around to treat them, but when you're a crossbowman, not being able to properly aim and reload that heavy crossbow can be crippling in battle. Not that bad for a crit fail, but due to the necessary repairs the manor will not gain any fortifications and the injuries will be present in the next combat encounter.
>>
>>3710394

Forgot to answer the second bit about rubbing shoulders with the local nobility. The long in the short of it that, outside of Mayor Oleg, Capol has no nobility. As Ursula mused, even the 'ruler' of Capol's son works in the fields.

Now, if you all had chosen to march to Islinth and take a commission there, there'd be more than a little rubbing shoulders to be done with the upper echelon of society. There may be chances for this in the future, as you expand your influence and area of operations, so I will try to keep the request in mind.
>>
>>3713017
>The long in the short of it that, outside of Mayor Oleg, Capol has no nobility. As Ursula mused, even the 'ruler' of Capol's son works in the fields.
Sounds perfect... for a hostile takeover
>>
>>3713084
Calm yourself brother we must make sure to outnumber their militia, know their trade routes, and make the peasants like us enough to not follow a scorched earth policy out of spite. We can just subvert the mayor to become our puppet when he runs out of money. We have time.
>>
>>3713084
I think just being the only people keeping the peace, and generally getting paid to fight sounds better.
If we can spread out enough and replace all the local forces then we are lord in all but name.

They might not fight back until far to late.
>>
>>3713392
True but ruling allows us to recruit and train militia to join our company. Right now we can't do that. Being a lord would allow us to gather more and more forces and until we can conquer this region.
>>
>labeled as a quest
>is run like a civ

Go fuck yourself, faggot.
>>
>>3716825
Y so mad
>>
>>3713017
QM still alive?
>>
>>3710278

Township of Capol, Outskirts

"Richie getcher dumb arse back to work 'n stop starin' before I tan yer hide."

Despite the harsh words, and the knowledge that they weren't told in jest, young Richard couldn't tear his eyes away from the majestic sight before him. The strangers that had come to town scant a week prior was the most exciting event to happen to the enthralled youth. So he continued watching the men on horse back as they made their rounds beyond the trench the colorful ones dug up over the last few days, unaware of the disgruntled mother approaching from behind.

"Ah!" He squeals as his ear is harshly yanked, "Uncle! Uncle!"

"Oh, ya 'ill be callin' 'Uncle' if ya don't get ta work pull these weeds up, ya welp!" The woman lets go, looking off to where the heavily armored riders suddenly stop and several draw steel, "Ya don't get no ideas now Richie. Leon says these are better folks than the last, but if ya know what's good for ya keep that nosy head of yers down." She goes back to work with her sickle on a particularly stubborn weed.

"C'mon, ma! They're just so... they're..."

"They're what?!"

Any further conversation is cut off as the riders approach the ditch, several breaking off in either direction as another trio dismount. They lead those massive horses across the strange wooden construct spanning the large ditch and go to mount back up again when one of them stops.

"Ah, you folks," One of the riders flips up his helm, favoring the two locals with an easy smile. He gives a waving motion as he looks back before getting back into the saddle, "You all are gonna want to get back into town, things are startin' to get interestin'."
>>
>>3721745

Township of Capol, Proper

"So the Horse Raiders are finally making their move."

"Yep! Sure seemed like they were mobilizing," Marvin, a man slightly lackadaisical in his manner, which is odd for a Linebreaker, but you know that he's more than capable when not directly supervised. It's the reason why you've promoted him to lead your heavy cavalry in your steed. With your current contract and this most recent development, you need to be able to be anywhere on the battlefield to lead your Company and that, as with the last few battles you've been in, means that you can't always fight alongside the Linebreakers.

It's a bit sad, but irrelevant at the moment. What is relevant is the reason why the two of you are power-walking to Mayor Oleg's manor.

Leon is there at the door waiting for you and he opens it for you to enter first. Walking into the same room that you originally negotiated your contract in, you find the mayor himself nervously pacing with several other men already seated. When he notices your presence, there's a flash of panic and relief that goes across his face, "Captain, you're here. Good, good, please sit down."

You do so, not saying a word as everyone has their eyes on you. Marvin dutifully stands behind you and off to your left, thankfully keeping his mouth shut before you speak up, "My men have reported to me that a group claiming to speak on behalf of the Sekan Horse Raider cohort holding Zackasky. They have demanded the surrender of Capol and it's inhabitants without clause. In three day's time, they will be expecting to enter into your town freely and for you, Sir Maedjski, to formally surrender to them."

Leon, as well as the other men that you can only assume are the other leaders of Capol's militia, looks furious at your words while his father just pales.

But that barely compares to their reactions when you speak your next words:
> "When they arrive in three days, it will be a slaughter. I will personally see their chief's head mounted on a pike." You plan to engage the enemy force in open combat at and outside Capol's perimeter.
> "When they arrive in three days, I will be there to greet them. We will be giving them proper White Dragon hospitality." You plan to lure the enemy force into Capol proper to engage them.
> "When they arrive in three days, Capol will be empty. We will gather everyone as best we can, and make good time for either Islinth or Levola." You plan to abandon Capol and escort the townsfolk elsewhere. It just barely fits within the terms of your contract, but you can't imagine Oleg will be particularly happy at your decision.
> "Well, it's been great to know you all. Good luck with whatever it is you shall be doing in the future." You plan to abandon Capol and take your Company elsewhere. This definitively breaks the contract and, if any of them survive, the residents of Capol will be furious with you.
> Other
>>
>>3716825

Roger that, little anon. I shall, for all my days henceforward, to endeavor to fuck myself as skillfully and thoroughly as your Autism has clearly wrought upon you.
>>
>>3721934
>> "When they arrive in three days, it will be a slaughter. I will personally see their chief's head mounted on a pike." You plan to engage the enemy force in open combat at and outside Capol's perimeter.
>>
>>3721934
Did we set up entrenchments, defenses, and traps around the city? If not we have to lure them into kill zones.
>>
>>3721934
>"When they arrive in three days, I will be there to greet them. We will be giving them proper White Dragon hospitality." You plan to lure the enemy force into Capol proper to engage them.
We fortified the town walls, why not use it? Can we borrow the town militia too?
>>
>>3721934
>>3721988
> "When they arrive in three days, I will be there to greet them. We will be giving them proper White Dragon hospitality." You plan to lure the enemy force into Capol proper to engage them.
Good enough.
>>
>>3721934
> "When they arrive in three days, I will be there to greet them. We will be giving them proper White Dragon hospitality." You plan to lure the enemy force into Capol proper to engage them.
>>
>>3721934
>> "When they arrive in three days, I will be there to greet them. We will be giving them proper White Dragon hospitality." You plan to lure the enemy force into Capol proper to engage them
>>
>>3721984

With Victor leading the efforts, the perimeter of Capol, with the exception of the main road, has been firmly entrenched. It won't withstand assault from something like a battery of catapults, but infantry/cavalry would be marching/riding into the mouth of a meat grinder if they tried to fight your Blackshields while behind those defenses.

>>3721988
>>3721997
>>3722003
>>3722037

> (Not so) Empty Fort Strategy

Damn shame about that critfail on the manor Fortifications. Would have made for a great base of operations/fire during this battle if it had succeeded, but them's the breaks

"When they arrive in three days, I will be there to greet them. We will be giving them proper White Dragon hospitality," Whether it is your cold words or even colder delivery, Oleg goes a bit pale for a moment before regaining his composure. You arch an eyebrow at his reaction before continuing,"You bought our services with Silver, Mayor, and we will be performing them with sharp Steel. Marvin, go back to the Company and call for an Officer's Meeting. I will attend to it shortly."

The man shoots off a crisp salute before leaving the manor. When you turn back, the rest of the room has apparently regained their wits and begin murmuring to themselves.

By the time you leave as well, they have agreed to bring the militia to bear mainly to keep the unarmed residents of Capol safe. The Mayor's home will be used to keep all the civilians safe and the militiamen will form a cordon around it. Not an ideal situation, but an acceptable one for certain.

Your own manor is a flurry of activity as men examine their kit for faults, run simple drills, and prepare themselves for the days ahead. While their 'envoy' claimed that it'd be three days until they arrived, you fully expect them to arrive early.

Entering into your quarters, recent repair to the ceiling and all, you find Aegrin, Vaxhil, Marvin, Sergeant Volk, Sergeant Marcus, and even Victor all waiting for you. They salute as you pass, circling around your desk as you wave them down and pull out a map of the township, as well as the additions the older Iron Coast engineer has made.

Pulling out a few token, you begin arranging them on the map.

> Cont.
>>
>>3723062

White Dragon Company Forces:
> Blackshield Halberdiers (Spearmen) (Veterans) (100/100) (+2 Armor and +2 Bonus against Cavalry)
> K'Voss Sharpshooters (Skirmishers/Crossbowmen) (Veterans) (90/100) (+2 Bonus and 1 Armor Pen while firing Heavy Crossbows)
> K'Voss Sharpshooters (Skirmishers/Crossbowmen) (Veterans) (100/100) (+2 Bonus and 1 Armor Pen while firing Heavy Crossbows)
> Linebreakers (Heavy Cavalry) (Veterans) (50/50) (+3 Bonus to Enemies in Defensive Formations. Causes Enemies to Rout.)
> Caedian Pikemen (Spearmen) (Experienced) (100/100)
> Caedian Shock Pikemen (Spearmen) (Experienced) (100/100) (+1 Armor and +1 Bonus while Charging)

Allies:
> Capol Militiamen (Spearmen) (Hardened) (100/100) [DESIGNATED TO DEFEND CIVILIANS]

Positions to Fill:
> Ambushers. Unit(s) designated to directly encircle and attack the Raiders at your mark.
> Patrol. Unit(s) designated to stay on Capol's outer perimeter to intercept enemies attempting to flee or additional enemy assault. (Bonus from Victor's Fortifications)
> Manor Defense. Unit(s) designated to maintain security of Manor Base for use as operations base and/or base of fire.
> Other

Captain's got a plan. She's always got one.

> I'm going to leave this overnight for you all to decide on. Don't worry about deciding where you will be deployed during this battle, as that will be decided at the beginning of it once you've seen what you're going up against.
>>
>>3723102

Oh yeah, and there's the potential morale bonus from the increase in rations. Roll me 4 1d20's BO1 to see if any of your Veterans are getting particularly hyped up for this battle.
>>
>>3723102
>> Ambushers. Unit(s) designated to directly encircle and attack the Raiders at your mark.
Linebreakers (Heavy Cavalry) (Veterans) (50/50) (+3 Bonus to Enemies in Defensive Formations. Causes Enemies to Rout.)
Caedian Shock Pikemen (Spearmen) (Experienced) (100/100) (+1 Armor and +1 Bonus while Charging)

>> Patrol. Unit(s) designated to stay on Capol's outer perimeter to intercept enemies attempting to flee or additional enemy assault. (Bonus from Victor's Fortifications)
Blackshield Halberdiers (Spearmen) (Veterans) (100/100) (+2 Armor and +2 Bonus against Cavalry)
K'Voss Sharpshooters (Skirmishers/Crossbowmen) (Veterans) (90/100) (+2 Bonus and 1 Armor Pen while firing Heavy Crossbows)
K'Voss Sharpshooters (Skirmishers/Crossbowmen) (Veterans) (100/100) (+2 Bonus and 1 Armor Pen while firing Heavy Crossbows)

>> Manor Defense. Unit(s) designated to maintain security of Manor Base for use as operations base and/or base of fire.
Caedian Pikemen (Spearmen) (Experienced) (100/100)

Strong defence + excellent charge
>>
Rolled 15 (1d20)

>>3723116
>>
Rolled 18 (1d20)

>>3723102
Supporting this >>3723193
>>
>>3723116
>Four 1d20

>Best of 1

? Wouldn't that make three anon's rolls redundant?
>>
Rolled 18 (1d20)

>>3723116
>>
>>3723401
One dice for every unit
>>
>>3723102
>> Ambushers. Unit(s) designated to directly encircle and attack the Raiders at your mark.
Linebreakers (Heavy Cavalry) (Veterans) (50/50)

>> Patrol. Unit(s) designated to stay on Capol's outer perimeter to intercept enemies attempting to flee or additional enemy assault. (Bonus from Victor's Fortifications)
Blackshield Halberdiers (Spearmen) (Veterans) (100/100)
Caedian Shock Pikemen (Spearmen) (Experienced) (100/100)
K'Voss Sharpshooters (Skirmishers/Crossbowmen) (Veterans) (100/100)

>> Manor Defense. Unit(s) designated to maintain security of Manor Base for use as operations base and/or base of fire.
Caedian Pikemen (Spearmen) (Experienced) (100/100)
K'Voss Sharpshooters (Skirmishers/Crossbowmen) (Veterans) (90/100)
>>
Rolled 5 (1d20)

>>3723102
supporting this >>3723193
>>
Rolled 4 (1d20)

>>3723193
This
>>
>>3723196
>>3723395
>>3723458
>>3723685

> Blackshields: 15 (+1 Reroll during Battle)
> K'Voss (Wounded): 18 (+1 Reroll during Battle)
> K'Voss: 18 (+1 Reroll during Battle)
> Linebreakers: 5

Even the men with injuries are getting pumped up, though your Linebreakers are keeping a cooler head. Battle will likely kick off sometime tonight or tomorrow, depending on how much time I've got.
>>
>>3723791
>>3723193
>>3723395
>>3723685
We are risking
>Cadian Shock Pikemen
As ambushers if they get caught they will be in a lot of trouble
Also we are living Manor Defense without option to repeal range attacks
>>
>>3723831
It would be a waste of their training not to use the shock pikeman as the ambush force.
>>
>>3723831
They have armor to take a hit. Plus we are going to take a lot casualties might as well be the pike man. Manor defensive well yeah nothing to do about that.
>>
>>3723193
>>3723395
>>3723685
>>3723791

Ambush:
> Linebreakers
> Caedian Shock Pikemen

Patrol:
> Blackshields
> Both K'Voss

Manor Defense:
> Caedian Pikemen

Three Days later

When the day comes, the dirt streets of Capol are empty, the fertile fields untended. Not a single man, woman, or child can be seen sans for yourself and Marvin. You were being literal when you said that you would be there to greet the Sekan Horse Raiders.

The column of men that approach you as the sun rises walk straight down the main road with all the swagger of conquerors. Some are on horseback, but most are on foot. You narrow your eyes as they get closer taking stock of their composition.

Those on horseback are armed with the usual assortment of curved swords and bows, but where the ones you fought previously were crass and rambunctious, these are stone-faced and quiet. From their well-maintained equipment to the way they frequently scan their surroundings, you can easily guess that these are some of their elites.

There are two different types on foot, with the first being men armed with spears of their own. While they are substantially lighter weapons than the pikes your newest recruits wield, they will be no less deadly when in proper formation. The second are more Raiders, though these are carrying two-handed axes just smaller than the one that Aegrin utilizes.

Enemies Revealed:
> 1 Unit of Elite Sekan Horse Raiders
> 1 Unit of Zackasky Men-at-Arms
> 1 Unit of Sekan Reavers

The composite group of raiders and soldiers parts before a single man atop a horse, who rides straight up to you. He is a lanky man for a Horse Raider, though by the recurve shortbow across his back that must be a deceptive appearance. Staring down at you from horseback, there's no disguising the confusion across his face as he watches you calmly drink a cup of tea from behind your desk in the middle of the town square, "You, woman, where is your Chief?"

Your hearing catches the sounds of distant shouting and you can't help the growing grin on your face. They must have tried to send another force around to your flank, right into range of your remaining troops.

Enemies Revealed:
> 2 Units of Sekan Horse Raiders
> 2 Units of Zackasky Men-at-Arms
> 1 Unit of Sekan Reavers

Smirking right up at the man, you put your cup down on the desk before swiftly mounting Tempest as Marvin does to his own horse. Raising your lance, you give your response:
> "I am Captain Ursula von Sternberg, prepare to die!"
> "I am the Chief, and I will be fixing your heads to pikes by sundown."
> Other

(Deployment options in next post due to spacing)
>>
Rolled 61 (1d100)

>>3725431

Deploy!:
> Blackshields (100/100) (+1 Reroll during Battle) (Patrol)
> K'Voss (90/100) (+1 Reroll during Battle) (Patrol)
> K'Voss (100/100) (+1 Reroll during Battle) (Patrol)
> Linebreakers (50/50) (Ambush)
> Caedian Pikemen (100/100) (Manor Defense)
> Caedian Shock Pikemen (100/100) (Ambush)

> Your orders?

Meanwhile, I will roll for if the first K'Voss are effected by their injuries. Anything below a 90 is good for you all.
>>
>>3725431
>Other
"We are the White Dragons, and you will not leave here alive!"
Have Us and the Shock pike-men lead a charge into the Elite horse raiders, with the Linebreakers sweeping into their rear and targeting the Reavers.
Also can we issue commands to units not with us in the ambush?
If so have the K'Voss fire into the Reavers outside the city while the Blackshields make sure to keep the horsemen out of the city.
And just keep the pikes in the Manor for now.
>>
>>3725443
Support this>>3725464
Maybe have the archers shoot once a turn to keep constant pressure on the flank. While the shields brace themselves to hold off anyone that reaches them.
>>
> "You are looking at her. I will be the last thing you see."

I dunno enough to deploy. I suppose I'll support >>3725464

Is this a Low Fantasy setting without magic, or is it just rare, or what?
>>
>>3725468
Yeah your right I would be good to switch their fire.
>>3725443
Can one unit of archers fire on more than one enemy if they split their fire? If so the K'Voss should switch who fires and spread their fire into the three groups of foot men imo so they are forced into a slower approach.
>>
>>3725468
Have the archers focus on the horses to take out their mobility fighters and not let them break our defense formation.
>>
>>3725480
I have to sleep so good luck on the battle everyone. If the ambush is getting overrun pull into the city, and get the militia and pikemen to hold choke points in between the streets. The patrol should be good. The horses are the real danger for their mobility and breaking defense formations.
>>
>>3725443

Order the Crossbows to fire at elite horse raiders and reavers. Basically make themselves the main target. Blackshields defend the Crossbows. When the horse fuckers charge and impale themselves on our defenses we release the ambush force to surround and murder them all.
>>
>>3725526
Supporting
>>
>>3725526

Keep in mind that your Ambush troops are set up in the town proper and the Patrol troops are set up along the entrenched perimeter of Capol. Moving a Unit between the two will require at least a turn.
>>
>>3725777
Ah I seem to have misunderstood. OK then, my plan is just to use the K'Voss to fire and draw the horse raiders into the city where we can ambush them using everything we have.
>>
>>3725474

I’ve thought about this and I’m strongly considering magic as a 1 in 1 million rarity with alchemy being relatively more common.

>>3725478

For the sake of simplicity no. You can have the K’Voss set up in volley fire and then walk their fire across the three groups over three turns, but in this mass combat situations you cannot micromanage your men.

>>3725464

You can issue commands to Units not in the Ambush as a player of this quest. You will not be able to get over to them to give one of them your +3 Leadership bonus without spending a turn relocating.
>>
>>3725464
Why charge outside the town and lose the advantage of our defenses?
>>
>>3725909
I think we only have defenses for the patrol group to deal with the reinforcements. We are using our ambush forces to fight the front group. Since the front group is inside the town square, they are not outside the city.
>>
>>3725464
>>3725468
>>3725474

> Blackshields intercept charging forces
> K’Voss double-volley Sekan Reavers
> Linebreaker Assault Sekan Reavers
> Shock Pikemen charge Elite Sekan Raiders with Ursula at the helm
> Caedian Pikemen stay in reserve

> Roll 6d20 BO3
>>
Rolled 20, 19, 16, 16, 2, 9 = 82 (6d20)

>>3725972
>>
Rolled 3, 14, 8, 13, 20, 10 = 68 (6d20)

>>3725972
>>
Rolled 13, 7, 14, 19, 8, 6 = 67 (6d20)

>>3725972
>>
Rolled 13, 3, 19, 5, 1, 8, 14, 5 = 68 (8d20)

>>3725972

Rolling for enemy forces:
> Sekan Horse Raiders
> 2 for Sekan Reavers (Patrol)
> Sekan Reavers (Ambush)
> Elite Sekan Horse Raiders
> 2 for Zackasky Men-at-Arms (Patrol)
> Zackasky Men-at-Arms (Ambush)
>>
>>3726045
I'm not sure which unit gets the worst of it but it doesn't look good for them.
>>
Rolled 5, 10, 1, 5, 2 = 23 (5d10)

>>3726045

> Elites rolled a 1

You lucky shits.

> Blackshields: 20+4+2= 26 vs 13 (Horse Raiders).
> 1st K’Voss: 19+2= 21 vs 3 (Patrol Reavers)
> 2nd K’Voss: 16+2= 18 vs 19 (Patrol Reaver)
> Linebreakers: 19 vs 5 (Ambush Reavers)
> Shock Pikemen: 20+1+3= 24 vs 1+2 (Elite Raiders)
> Caedian Pikemen: 10 vs 5 (Ambush MaA)

I need to roll:
> Armor Saves for Horse Raiders, Patrol Reavers, Ambush Reavers, and Elite Raiders.

> Horse Raiders (1 AR, 1 Unharmed, 2 Injured, 3-10 Mortal Wound)
> Patrol Reavers (3 AR (1 AP K’Voss), 1-2 Unharmed, 3-5 Injured, 6-10 Mortal Wound)
> Ambush Reavers (3 AR, 1-3 Unharmed, 4-6 Injured, 7-10 Mortal)
> Elite Raiders (2 AR, 1-2 Unharmed, 3-4 Injured, 5-10 Mortal Wound) (Crit Fail: Roll Twice take Higher)
>>
>>3726080
We should get a scene of killing the enemy chief and putting his head on our lance
>>
>>3726094

You will be getting a bit more than just that.
>>
>>3726080
> Elites rolled a 1
Excellent all according to plan.

>>3726094
Or impale the chief and using his body as a shield while charging at the enemy.
>>
>>3726080

> Caedian Shock Pikemen: 24 vs 3 (Elite Raiders) (Rolled 5: Leader Mortally Wound)
> Linebreakers: 19 vs 5 (Ambush Reavers) (Rolled 1: Leader Unharmed)
> Caedian Pikemen: 10 vs 5 (Zackasky MaA)

"We are the White Dragons, and you will not leave here alive!"

At your words, the town center of Capol explodes in violence. Your Linebreakers come from behind the town's granaries at a full gallop, their lances lowered as they smash into the side of the Reavers. The first ranks crumple under the full weight of the heavy cavalry's charge, but that stops when a larger man than the rest comes forwards to rally his lines. A full rout is averted, but when the Sekan Reavers attempt to surge forwards they do not find your men weighed down by lances and a dwindled charge, but the second wave. With warhammers, flails, and the odd heavy blade, your Linebreakers lay into those wild men with the combined strength of reckless abandon and momentum. Their leader gets no further chances to maintain his men's cohesion, as Marvin's lance nearly takes him off his feet. It is only a testament to the quality of his armor that the blow was turned aside, but your second continues his assault.

With the chaos unfolding in front of them, the Elite Sekan Horse Raiders never see the other half of the pincer coming. You and Victor had spent the better part of the last three days setting up a part of the nearest field for Sergeant Marcus' platoon to hide in, and your work pays off spectacularly when what first appears to be a row of corn lowers itself directly behind the Raiders who have hardly drawn their weapons never mind begun to maneuver. The Sergeant in question leads the charge with a bellow of "Oooo-Rah!", something he picked up from the Blackshields. You cannot deny the results of their training, as the Caedians crash into enemy's rear without slowing down. They are running in a dead sprint, in armor, with pikes fixed, and in tight formation, all things that could result in catastrophe on the battlefield.

> Cont.
>>
>>3726513

It could not have got better. Not a single one of those Elites managed to draw their bows before Sergeant Marcus breaks through the other side. He and those directly around him are covered in blood and muck, but they charge into the fray with hatchets drawn.

Perhaps if the chief had the moment to spare, he might have been able to pull enough of his Elites back together to be a threat, but you don't give him a second to breathe. Your lance lashes out at him over and over again, his curved sword having no where near the range to contest your assault. In this dance of steel you have the advantage but your opponent keeps himself barely ahead of meeting a grizzle end up until one of the various brawls spills between the two. As one of your Pikemen works an Elite over with the blunt end of his spear, Tempest rears up and clean snaps his counterpart's leg with his ironshod. That's the last edge you need to end the fight, your first strike removing his sword arm at the elbow as it sends his sword flying off. Your second cleanly punches through the collar of his chest piece and tears his head off with a wet squelch.

Raising your bloodstained lance high into the air, you let out the cry of victory, "Their leader has fallen! Crush them! Break them under Hoof! Drive them into the mud!"

The Zackasky Men-at-Arms that have not been pulled into this slaughter look upon you with horror, a feeling that only grows at the excited shouting of your men. They scramble to avoid being next, only to run right into Sergeant Volk and his men who greet them with toothy smiles and sharp steel.

"'N where do ye laddies thinks yer goin'?"

> Elite Sekan Raiders have been Annihilated!
> Sekan Reavers are Crumbling!
> Zackasky Men-at-Arms have lost heart!

> Cont.
>>
File: K'VossVolleyFire.png (1.27 MB, 874x707)
1.27 MB
1.27 MB PNG
>>3726523

> 1st K'Voss: 21 vs 3 (Patrol Reavers) (Rolled 10: Very Dead)
> 2nd K'Voss: 18 vs 19 (Patrol Reavers)
> Blackshields: 26 vs 13 (Horse Raiders) (Rolled: 5: Mortal Wound)

On the other side of the battlefield, Vaxhil stands before her twin platoons of K'Voss, formed into ranks behind the same entrenchments they've spent the last fortnight constructing. They have their heavy crossbows locked and loaded, shields already set up, and clubs and maces well within reach. Some wear the bandages the good Doc had dressed them with that morning and some have injuries that would warrant them staying off the firing line. But no one man among their ranks does not have a grin on their faces, ones that grow when the Ahkasji woman draws her saber and raises it in the air. Before them a mass of Sekan Reavers charge across the grassy field towards them. On the left, Horse Raiders gallop at full speed while Zackasky Men-at-Arms begrudgingly march up the right flank. Vaxhil gives no concern to either as she silently tips her blade forwards an inch. Her men raise their crossbows and aim squarely down the middle.

When the Raiders come into firing range, she swipes her saber down.

Some two-hundred crossbows spit their deadly bolts into the mass of wild men, the sound an airy roar that screams death. Those steel bolts punch through armor, flesh, and bone as though does not exist and the entire center of their force collapses along with their leader who slumps to the ground, a bolt through each eye.

The Sekan Horse Raiders let out a mournful roar, drawing their shortbows and preparing to fill the men who slaughtered their comrades with their own arrows when the ground beneath them opens up.

> Cont.
>>
Rolled 16, 20 = 36 (2d20)

>>3726566

Pits filled with spikes open up as the horses cross them, sending many a Raider to their messy deaths. Those that avoid the pitfalls find themselves suddenly surrounded by the Blackshields as they rush out of the entrenchments. Aegrin leads the charge, cutting a man, and the horse underneath him, in half with his massive axe. His men follow suit behind the giant of a man as they below out their thunderous "Oooo-Rah!" The hooked polearms of the Blackshields rip Raiders from their mounts, or simply rip their mounts apart if unable to reach them. Those that attempt to retaliate find the darkened, curved steel of these spearmen more than capable of turning aside half-drawn shots. Some meet their ends at the heavy blades the shield bearers wield and some even are pushed bodily into the same pits that initiated the ambush.

One man tries to organize a rear guard action, but he has scarcely finished a sentence before Aegrin gets to him. It is not a clean blow, but the sheer force of it throws the man into the mud split open from hip to shoulder. What little he managed to pull together before dying horrifically breaks and rides off.

The Zackasky Men-at-Arms falter in their advance, having seen what havoc those bolts are capable of while the second group of Sekan Horse Raiders rides up in a vain attempt to save the first wave.

> Sekan Reavers have been Annihilated!
> 1st Sekan Horse Raiders are Routing!
> 2nd Sekan Horse Raiders ride to Reinforce!

> Due to horrific casualties, Both Zackasky Men-at-Arms must roll a Morale Check. DC: 10
>>
>>3726609

> One Success, one Crit Success for MaA's.
> 1st and 2nd Zackasky Men-at-Arms rush the Entrenchments!

Current Status:
> Blackshields (100/100) (+1 Reroll during Battle) (Patrol)
> K'Voss (90/100) (+1 Reroll during Battle) (Patrol) (Reloading)
> K'Voss (100/100) (+1 Reroll during Battle) (Patrol) (Reloading)
> Linebreakers (50/50) (Ambush)
> Caedian Pikemen (100/100) (Manor Defense)
> Caedian Shock Pikemen (100/100) (Ambush)

> Your orders?

Oooo-Rah!!
>>
>>3726615
I'd hoped to capture more men but I guess they're too stupid to learn when they're defeated.

For inside the town, Linebreakers finish destroying the Reavers, shock pikemen and regular pikes charge and destroy the men at arms from two sides.
For outside, K' Voss reload and prepare to receive a charge, Blackshields take position in front of K'voss and prepare for charge from Horse Raiders.
>>
>>3726615
Order Marcus and Volk to carry on the fight in the town, with Volk taking the Men-at-Arms and Marcus moving into the Reavers.
Have Marvin gather the Linebreakers and join us in moving out of the town and charging into the Men-At-Arms attack the entrenchments.
Have the Blacksheilds engage the other unit of horse raiders.
Have Vaxhil use the weakend unit of crossbow men to hold the fortifications while the fuller unit steps back to reload.
However I have a question if we could in the future have some untrained men reload crossbows and supply the K'Voss with loaded crossbows to keep each unit constantly firing.
As in employing a collection of peasants to do this.
>>
>>3726641
Supporting but why not allow both units to reload? Do the Crossbows get maluses if attacked while reloading?
>>
>>3726675
I'm just assuming there wont be enough time to reload before they get attacked, but heck if they can why not.
>>
>>3726615
Supporting >>3726641
How fast can the reserve Pikemen move to the battlefield? Or are they stuck in defending the manor?
>>
>>3726641
>>3726675

The reason why I gave the K'Voss a reload is to keep things somewhat balanced. They've got +2 to hit with 'em and 1 AP, which would be a bit ridiculous if you could use them every single turn. Especially when you've got two full platoons of them.

For reference, any enemy crossbowmen you fight will have this same mechanic.
>>
>>3726681
It depends on the enemy's speed. If the cavalry can get to the entrenchments in one turn the one of archers must have swords out. But if there is a lot of ground both can reload. I think.
>>
>>3726689
If you read this >>3726523 the men at arms have stumbled into the reserve Pikes so no time at all

>>3726690
So they only get disrupted while reloading? Go with the original plan then
>>
>>3726701
Oh I though they were in reserve at the manor to be deployed or were securing the city from any stray patrol. Thank you for the clarification.
>>
>>3726701

Less disrupted and more that the K'Voss know about the 21 Feet Rule.

>>3726710

The intention was to keep them in reserve, but then you guys had just about a perfect first round of combat and those MaA's went for the first defensible location they could find: your manor.

>>3726634

I wasn't expecting this enemy force, which could be considered the first 'proper' boss fight of the quest, to get fucking bodied either.

>>3726641
>>3726675
>>3726689

> Blackshields charge remaining Horse Raiders
> 1st K'Voss switch to melee and cover 2nd as they reload
> Linebreakers peel off to assault Patrol Men-at-Arms next turn.
> Shock Pikemen engage Reavers
> Caedian Pikemen engage Ambush Men-at-Arms

> Roll 4d20 BO3
>>
Rolled 1, 19, 15, 14 = 49 (4d20)

>>3726823
That was nice of MaA to walk into the grinder for us. The dice gods man they mess with everything.
>>
Rolled 14, 11, 13, 7 = 45 (4d20)

>>3726823
Time to use the reroll for Blackshields? With proper dice this time
>>
>>3726844
I think we should wait for the other two rolls. Then use rerolls for any 1 that are not cancelled by a lucky 20.
>>
Rolled 10, 10, 15, 6 = 41 (4d20)

>>3726823
>>
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>>3726830

> Blackshields crit fail

It's up to you anon if you will be rerolling. Aegrin's life could be in your hands.
>>
>>3726871
Reroll. I'll let the anon that rolled the crit fail do it.
>>
>>3726851
We are counting on you anon to reroll something good please.
>>
Rolled 6 (1d20)

>>3726896
Its too much pressure. Death comes too soon for Aegrin.
>>
>>3726917
Aegrin noooo!!! I have failed.
>>
Rolled 20, 15, 19, 11 = 65 (4d20)

>>3726917

The good news anon is that if Aegrin has to make an injury roll, you won't have to roll twice and take the higher of the two.

>>3726823

Rolling for enemy forces:
> 2nd Sekan Horse Raiders (Patrol)
> Men at Arms (Patrol)
> Sekan Reavers (Ambush)
> Men-at-Arms (Ambush)
>>
>>3726934
Rough. But we have the numerical superiority now so we'll still win but take some casualties.
>>
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>>3726830
>>3726848
>>3726866
>>3726917

> Blackshields: 6+2= 8 vs 20+2= 22 (Patrol Horse Raiders)
> 1st K'Voss: 19 vs 15 (Patrol MaA)
> Shock Pikemen: 15 vs 19+2= 21 (Ambush Reavers)
> Caedian Pikemen: 14 vs 11 (Ambush MaA)

> Roll 1d10 BO1

> Aegin (Blackshields) (4 AR, 1-4 Unharmed, 5-8 Injured, 9 Mortal Wound, 10 Dead)
>>
>>3726941
You roll next. Try to save Aegrin.
>>
Rolled 3 (1d10)

>>3726945
Does the shock pikes get a +1 from charging?
>>
>>3726945
And don't the K'voss get a bonus from fortifications?
>>3726957
Aegrin lives woot
>>
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Rolled 13 (1d20)

>>3726959

You are right, that should be a 24 vs 15. The enemy leader just barely avoids an injury roll as he duels Vaxhil, but I also forgot the second group of MaA coming up right behind them. With just how much ass 1st K'Voss is kicking though, nothing but a nat 20 will have an effect on this next round.

>>3726957

> Rolled 3: Unharmed

Aegrin spits in the face of certain death!
>>
>>3726979
Archers with swords holding the line against numerically superior conscripts. While injured and winning. Damn 1st K'Voss are earning their pay.
>>
>>3726979

> Shock Pikemen: 15 vs 19+2= 21 (Ambush Reavers)
> Caedian Pikemen: 14 vs 11 (Ambush MaA)

With their War Chief dead in the dirt, you raise your lance once more and shout over the chaos of the battlefield, "Linebreakers! To me! Sergeant Volk! Sergeant Marcus! I leave clean up to you two!" Wheeling about, you give your heavy cavalry a few moments to break off of their current engagement and form up on you. The distance between the center of Capol and the perimeter isn't far, but Victor was very thorough in his descriptions of just how grizzly your death would be if you didn't follow the proper routes while navigating the entrenchments.

"Roger that, Captain!" Sergeant Marcus responds with a jaunty shout, hefting back up his pike before pointing to the remains of the Sekan Reavers nearby, "You hear her, lads! Get 'em!" Cheers roar out around him as his platoon, covered in blood and glory, move to engage.

But these wild men do not die quietly. Their greataxes swing out in wide arcs, the weight of the weapons and the force behind them high enough to knock aside several men's worth of pikes at a time. Several are pierced by the iron spears, but they send the careful formation into disarray. Marcus is knocked off his feet by the largest among them, and only keeps his head by the men around him covering him.

Meanwhile, Sergeant Volk pushes his men forwards, their better arms and armor allowing them to grind the enemy's advance to a halt, but progress beyond that is not forthcoming. The Zackaskies are desperate to escape what they believe to be an absolute slaughter directly behind them and the first of their ranks practically jump on the Caedian's pikes. Volk is barking orders to his lines to keep the defenses up when a man in superior armor to the men around him pushes forwards and shouts out, "Caedian! I would like to surrender!"

> Sekan Reavers are going down Swinging!
> Zackasky Men-at-Arms are attempting to Surrender!

> Cont.
>>
>>3727047
Accept their surrender, if they bring us the head of the reaver leader.
>>
>>3727047
We offer great benefits from a competitive salary, tax free housing, food, and your lives. Join today or be a grave for tomorrow.
>>
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>>3727047

> 1st K'Voss: 23 vs 15 (Patrol Men-at-Arms)
> Blackshields: 8 vs 22 (Patrol Horse Raiders)

Vaxhil watches as Zackasky Men-at-Arms falter. It is odd to see them here, as with Zackasky under the control of the Sekan Raider cohort, their various knights and men-at-arms would have likely been killed in battle or executed.

"Second ranks, back up and reload. First ranks, we hold this entrenchment."

Yet here they are, being headed by a man in well-worn plate armor and a kite shield of some heraldry. He must have said something to emboldened the men behind him, as they all charge straight at the trench. The Ahkasji woman holds her saber, not for command but for battle, as the first ranks of her K'Voss form up around her. Their heavy crossbows have been set aside for maces and clubs to be used along with their shields. It has been many months since the last time the K'Voss had to get into the thick of things, but everyone stands confidently.

When the first Men-at-Arms vault over the entrenchment, they are met with the focused fury of men trained in fighting in close quarters. The long spears that are so effective in open combat are completely useless in the tight confines of an entrenchment. The K'Voss so thoroughly bloody the noses of the initial assault that the Knight jumps in and begins clearing a beachhead with his arming sword.

> Cont.
>>
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>>3727125

His steel blade flicks out in several deadly swings, but quick reactions and reinforced shields keep the K'Voss Troopers out of harm's way. The Knight motions his men to join him, but pauses as Vaxhil steps forwards with her saber raised.

The two stare down at one another as the Men-at-Arms and troopers both give them a wide berth before continuing to lay into each other. Vaxhil strikes first, her saber probing the Knight's defenses. He knocks aside the first, blocks the second, but ducks out of the way as he narrowly avoids the thin blade finding its way through the thin eye slit on his helm. Several Men-at-Arms cover their leader as he shakes off the blow, but the K'Voss severely limit those that are able to join the fray. The Zackaskies keep coming, with the next group just about to jump into the entrenchment. They do so just as the second ranks of the K'Voss finish reloading.

No more than a hundred feet away, Aegrin leads the charge against the next group of Raiders. His Blackshield dutifully follow their leader, crushing the remains of the first attackers under the iron boots. But without the element of surprise, these Raiders wheel themselves around and unload a salvo of arrows against the incoming pikes. The giant of a man takes several of them and for a bare moment looks like a pincushion. He laughs them off, though several of his men cannot say the same as stray shots hit gaps between armor.

It is this scene that you see as you bring the Linebreakers around, perfectly positioned to pounce upon the exposed rears of the Zackaskies or the Sekans.

But not both.

> Sekan Horse Raiders continue their Assault!
> Zackasky Men-at-Arms are being Crushed!

Current Status:
> Blackshields (85/100) (Patrol)
> K'Voss (90/100) (+1 Reroll during Battle) (Patrol) (In Melee)
> K'Voss (100/100) (+1 Reroll during Battle) (Patrol)
> Linebreakers (50/50) (Patrol)
> Caedian Pikemen (100/100) (Manor Defense)
> Caedian Shock Pikemen (95/100) (Ambush)

> Your orders?

Victory just in Sight, if only you can Hold On!
>>
>>3727162
>Blackshields continue the charging the horse raiders
>1st K'Voss keep killing the maa
>2nd K'Voss fire on horse raiders
>Linebreakers charge maa
>Pikes accept surrender if the maa turn and attack Reavers
>Shock pikes finish off the reavers
>>
>>3727162
Support this >>3727187
>>
>>3727187
Supporting
>>
>>3727187
>>3727191
>>3727193

> Blackshields charge Patrol Raiders
> 1st K’Voss continue fighting Patrol Men-at-Arms
> 2nd K’Voss fire at Patrol Raiders
> Linebreakers charge Patrol Men-at-Arms
> Sergeant Volk accepts the Zackaskies’ surrender and attempts to convince them to turn on the Reavers.
> Shock Pikemen try to finish off Reavers.

> Roll 6d20, BO3
>>
Rolled 4, 16, 18, 11, 17, 20 = 86 (6d20)

>>3727195
>>
Rolled 6, 12, 11, 8, 17, 14 = 68 (6d20)

>>3727195
>>
Rolled 14, 19, 9, 15, 2, 18 = 77 (6d20)

>>3727195
>>
Rolled 3, 4, 18, 17, 11 = 53 (5d20)

>>3727195

> Sekan Horse Raiders continue to fire.
> Patrol Men-at-Arms fight on.
> Ambush Men-at-Arms consider a different occupation.
> Ambush Reavers go down swinging.
>>
>>3727203
Extremely dead, very dead, barely dead, alive, extremely dead
>>
Rolled 7, 5, 2 = 14 (3d10)

>>3727197
>>3727200
>>3727201
>>3727203

> Blackshields: 14+3= 17 vs 3+2= 5 (Patrol Raiders)
> 1st K’Voss: 19+4= 23 vs 4 (1st Patrol MaA)
> 2nd K’Voss: 18+2= 20 vs 3+2= 5 (Patrol Raiders)
> Linebreakers: 15+3= 18 vs 18 (2nd Patrol MaA)
> Sergeant Volk Rough Tongue: 17
> Zackasky Men-at-Arms: 17 vs 11+2= 13 (Ambush Reavers)
> Shock Pikemen: 20 vs 11+2= 13 (Ambush Reavers)

I need to roll:
> Armor Saves for Patrol Raiders and Patrol Men-at-Arms.

> Patrol Raiders (1 AR, 1 Unharmed, 2 Injured, 3-10 Mortal Wound) (Double Check, second w/ 1 AP)
> Zackasky Men-at-Arms (3 AR, 1-3 Unharmed, 4-6 Injured, 7-9 Mortal Wound, 10 Dead)
>>
>>3727228

> Alright so the Patrol Raiders are dead as can be and while that Zackasky Knight is alive he’s between the most plucky crossbowmen this side of the Empire and the Linebreakers (I forgot to also give them your +3 Leadership bonus so they manage to edge out ahead of the MaA’s) so he’s ready to surrender.
> I need to go to sleep at this point, so the battle will finish tomorrow. I hope you all enjoyed it and how this system that I’ve cobbled together works.
>>
>>3727234
Thanks QM. That was extremely satisfying to read and play. I assume next session will be quieter as we decide what to do with the prisoners and recover our wounded?
>>
>>3727234
Good night.
Man the 1st K'voss are going to get drunk as hell for the beating they dealt to everything.
>>
>>3727234
Night OP. Thanks for running. We're going to have a great celebration after this and get blacked out from all the fighting and winning.
>>
>>3727234
Thanks for running OP, really liking this Quest so far
>>
Uh any news qm?
>>
Guess it's dead for real now. Shame
>>
>>3736069

Apologizes, dealing with car issues. Hair pulling car issues.

>>3727234

> Blackshields: 17 vs 5 (Patrol Raiders) (Rolled 7: Mortal Wound)
> 1st K'Voss: 23 vs 4 (1st Patrol MaA) (Rolled 2: Unharmed)
> 2nd K'Voss: 20 vs 5 (Patrol Raiders) (Rolled 5: Very Dead)
> Linebreakers: 21 vs 18 (2nd Patrol MaA)
> Zackasky Men-at-Arms: 17 vs 13 (Ambush Reavers)
> Shock Pikemen: 20 vs 13 (Ambush Reavers)

Torn between the sight of both Aegrin and Vaxhil pressed hard, you spur Tempest on towards the rear ranks of the Zackaskies as they struggle to get into the trenches. Your Linebreakers follow after you, lances lowered and hammers raised in preparation for the merge. The roaring thunder of your charge is not subtle, the Men-at-Arms quickly turning to raise their spears and shields in defense; a futile gesture as they scatter just before weapons come down upon them. It is this moment of cowardice that saves the majority of them, only a handful of them are struck down.

The whistle of bolts flies overhead as the 2nd K'Voss open fire over the trench into the turning group of Horse Raiders just as the Blackshields catch up to them. The result is quick, brutal, and very messy as steel bolts turn Sekan horseflesh into so much mincemeat for the second time in so many weeks. The organized formation crumbles right as Aegrin and his men catch up to them.

Below in the trenches, the Knight and Vaxhil continue to clash over and over again. Arming sword scrapes against saber until it is flicked to the side upon where shield blocks the riposte. Around them the 1st K'Voss fight against the Knight's loyal Men-at-Arms. The fighting is close in and dirty, as while the strong steel of the Zackaskies' armor keeps them mostly safe the K'Voss Troopers beat them to the ground with whatever they have at hand; whether that is with club or shield it is a painful experience none the less. While the impromptu duel is at a stalemate, the Knight can see the writing on the wall. By the time you pull up with Tempest, he is surrendering to the Ahkasji woman.

At least, he is attempting to.

"Pick your blade back up, we are not finished yet," Vaxhil has a frown on her face and saber raised, but at least she has not struck down the man.

He shakes his head as he removes his helmet, revealing a rather non-descript man behind the helm. With his arming sword already away, he raises his voice, "We are surrendering, where is your commanding officer?"

"That would be me," Both sides look as you ride up, looking at Vaxhil for a moment. "I am Ursula von Sternberg of the White Dragons, and I accept your surrender."
>>
>>3748072

> This is where this thread ends. Again, I apologize for the delay though that is not the only bit of bad news. I will not be able to continue running Broken Empire for the remainder of August. Keep an eye out for the next thread sometime in the first week of September.
> Thank you all for playing so far, and I hope you're here with me when we continue.
>>
>>3748083
The curse strikes again. Glad you're not dead though.
>>
>>3748083
It is okay real life takes priority. See you soon.



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