Lead Adventure Forum
Miniatures Adventure => Pulp => Topic started by: Doug ex-em4 on July 31, 2020, 12:42:03 PM
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This topic is a continuation of some of the events outlined in The Throppets Hentilaget:
https://leadadventureforum.com/index.php?topic=125080.0 (https://leadadventureforum.com/index.php?topic=125080.0)
From a nondescript, seemingly run-down warehouse, somewhere in England, four grey-clad men emerge. They are a fast response team of the Grey League of Morris. They are needed in rural Borsetshire where a Morris man is in danger. But first, they must not miss the 8.50am X049 bus to Borchester otherwise they will miss their connecting bus to Much Rampling. Such are the tiny margins between success and failure to the men of -
The Grey League of Morris.
(https://velodoug.files.wordpress.com/2020/07/123214a8-387c-4258-8351-d94731590d4c.jpeg)
The first problem to be solved is, where is the bus stop? Opinions appear divided as to whether they need to go left or right.
The Grey League of Morris is a secret chapter of Morris Dancing. They are the military wing. Dressed entirely in Grey, they seek out enemies of Morris, redress slights to Morris and avenge hurt to Morris. Their secret headquarters is situated in the ruined warehouse mentioned above. It is located in a bleak, urban area, far from the usual places associated with Morris dancing. The core of any Grey League operation is the 4 man group, armed with an assortment of weapons. Operatives choose their own weapons; the choice being limited to what they can afford. So pistols, shotguns, rifles and specially weighted Morris sticks are the most common. When on a mission, Grey League groups may recruit irregular helpers from the darker realms of rural England who become willing participants in combating those who threaten the Being of England.
The organisation is so secret that not even veteran Morris dancers know of its existence although vague rumours occasionally circulate. Within the organisation, members refer to each other as "Bullnoses", a whimsical reference to an early model of car made by the Morris company, although there is no connection between the Morris company and Morris dancing, apart from sharing the same name.
What devilry awaits these brave men in Borsetshire....? Time will tell.
Doug
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lol lol
Brilliant!
I sense more wacky fun in the Much-Piddling style on the way.
8) 8)
Huzzah!!!
:D
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Ohh - beware the Grey men of Morris :oLike them
Do I also detect former Combat Zone scenery also?
All the best on this very hot day.
Glen
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Excellent! I have read that the Keeper of the Tomes is know as a Morris Oxford ;)
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Excellent! I have read that the Keeper of the Tomes is know as a Morris Oxford ;)
lol lol lol
I wonder if the Black Ops (or should that be Grey Ops?) division of the Grey League are led by Morris Major?
Great painting Doug, the Grey League are definitely the Mutt's Nuts!
If they are a fast response team would their full title be the Fast Action Response Team, giving you a rather spiffy acronym?
P. S. where is the bus stop?
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I have a file (in a folder called 'Random Games Sh!t') that says:
Surnames:
Morris
Austin
Ford
Talbot
Hillman
Given names:
Maurice
Austin
Ford
Talbot
Nicknames:
‘Robin’
‘Reliant’
‘Sunbeam’
... and I have never known what it's about. But maybe it is of some assistance in piecing together the identities of these secretive folk?
I heard someone called Marina might be involved too.
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I have a file (in a folder called 'Random Games Sh!t') that says:
Surnames:
Morris
Austin
Ford
Talbot
Hillman
Given names:
Maurice
Austin
Ford
Talbot
Nicknames:
‘Robin’
‘Reliant’
‘Sunbeam’
... and I have never known what it's about. But maybe it is of some assistance in piecing together the identities of these secretive folk?
I heard someone called Marina might be involved too.
All British car makers and car names of years gone by, sadly mostly not with us now :'(
Such gems as the Hillman Hunter or Hillman Minx :D
Not sure about the Maurice though???? :?
Glen
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Morris as a surname. Maurice as a given name.
I do know what it's 'about' in one sense, I put the list together.
Only there wasn't anything else until now. No real reason for it. Just a list of names associated with British cars. It is offered as a potentially useful jumping-off point.
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A new secret society has been exposed! Though I am not sure how they will get on a bus with that get up. Hopefully they have trench coats too. :)
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Does the X049 run on a Sunday?
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lol lol
Brilliant!
I sense more wacky fun in the Much-Piddling style on the way.
8) 8)
Huzzah!!!
:D
Have a care, Sir.....Serious matters will be laid out here for your attention....
Ohh - beware the Grey men of Morris :oLike them
Do I also detect former Combat Zone scenery also?
All the best on this very hot day.
Glen
Thanks, Wolfie and yes, Combat Zone walls have been utilised...
Excellent! I have read that the Keeper of the Tomes is know as a Morris Oxford ;)
I'm beginning to recognise your obsession :D.
lol lol lol
I wonder if the Black Ops (or should that be Grey Ops?) division of the Grey League are led by Morris Major?
Great painting Doug, the Grey League are definitely the Mutt's Nuts!
If they are a fast response team would their full title be the Fast Action Response Team, giving you a rather spiffy acronym?
P. S. where is the bus stop?
The FARTs breeze in, make lots of noise and create a stink? Excellent acronym and up to your usual high standard. But I fear you have misread the situation. Serious matters are afoot and there is no space for music-hall humour- the very ideal....!
I have a file (in a folder called 'Random Games Sh!t') that says:
Surnames:
Morris
Austin
Ford
Talbot
Hillman
Given names:
Maurice
Austin
Ford
Talbot
Nicknames:
‘Robin’
‘Reliant’
‘Sunbeam’
... and I have never known what it's about. But maybe it is of some assistance in piecing together the identities of these secretive folk?
I heard someone called Marina might be involved too.
A list to dreamily ponder on long winter's nights - nostalgia...
A new secret society has been exposed! Though I am not sure how they will get on a bus with that get up. Hopefully they have trench coats too. :)
The Grey Morris are selected for, amongst other things, their resourcefulness. I have no qualms about their bus-embarking abilities.
Does the X049 run on a Sunday?
It does but it terminates at Felpersham. Hence the decision of the team to travel on a Tuesday.
Thanks to all for their contributions - I hope you keep checking in as the mystery unfolds. For example, what’s in the map case, Snapcase...? All will be revealed unless, of course, it isn’t....
Doug
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what’s in the map case, Snapcase...?
I can only reiterate my suspicions when I telegraphed you this morning...
Having failed on my first guess as to the contents of the map case of Mam'selle Giselle Cas de Pression, I now hazard two more theories.
1) Erotic etchings by Thomas Rowlandson
2) Plans to build a proposed artificial bladder factory in order to replace the traditional pig’s bladder wielded by the Morris fool. Surely the Grey League of Morris would be tasked to destroy such a monstrosity right at its conception?
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Well if they are original Thomas Rowlandson etchings you will be hard pressed to get them away from her.
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“redress slights to Morris ”
Wow they’re gonna be super busy!
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I can only reiterate my suspicions when I telegraphed you this morning...
Having failed on my first guess as to the contents of the map case of Mam'selle Giselle Cas de Pression, I now hazard two more theories.
1) Erotic etchings by Thomas Rowlandson
2) Plans to build a proposed artificial bladder factory in order to replace the traditional pig’s bladder wielded by the Morris fool. Surely the Grey League of Morris would be tasked to destroy such a monstrosity right at its conception?
I fear that in the case of the map case, Snapcase, your lively, indeed fervid, imagination may be running ahead of you. As always in these reports, prepare yourself for disappointment. Incidentally, as always I rewarded the telegram boy with a silver thruppenny piece which I will expect reimbursement of next time we meet.
Well if they are original Thomas Rowlandson etchings you will be hard pressed to get them away from her.
But imagine the fun in trying..... :o
“redress slights to Morris ”
Wow they’re gonna be super busy!
They are. Beware the Grey shadow......
Back to my tale:
Having successfully caught the X049, the Team arrived at Borchester and transferred from the majestic splendour of a double-decker Routemaster to the more bucolic pleasures of a number 80b, Grey Cars country single-decker. The fact that the bus company is called Grey Cars is a coincidence- perhaps......
As they approach Much Rampling at speeds sometimes in excess of 35mph, the Team, ever conscious of the need for secrecy, lie down on the floor of the bus. Disconcertingly, they appear to have persuaded the driver to follow suit.
(https://velodoug.files.wordpress.com/2020/08/73c5e30b-8066-4033-9943-3528f7b7200b.jpeg)
In the time remaining before arriving at their destination (and still observing strict security protocols), they check their weapons, review their instructions and pass round the cider flagon.
Doug
nb: Grey Cars bus courtesy of Mad Lord Snapcase
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lol lol lol
It appears that the Grey League use much the same mode of transport as the Ladies of the Women's Institute (Much-Verbosity-in the-Wold, Defence Division).
(http://leadadventureforum.com/gallery/47/4805-030820140524.jpeg).
Much care should be taken not to attempt boarding the same conveyance as there could be a serious Breach of the Peace should they encounter the Ladies en route to a meeting, as their ire is easily stoked by the sight of a fully inflated pigs bladder!
You have been warned!
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lol lol lol
It appears that the Grey League use much the same mode of transport as the Ladies of the Women's Institute (Much-Verbosity-in the-Wold, Defence Division).
(http://leadadventureforum.com/gallery/47/4805-030820140524.jpeg).
Much care should be taken not to attempt boarding the same conveyance as there could be a serious Breach of the Peace should they encounter the Ladies en route to a meeting, as their ire is easily stoked by the sight of a fully inflated pigs bladder!
You have been warned!
Oh my word - this all the makings of an incident of apocalyptic proportions. Please tell me that Much-Verbosity-in-the-Wold is not in Borsetshire.....
Great to see your gang ladies en masse, Paul. Nice paint jobs on show there, as well ;)
Doug
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Mason, those Grey cars do get about, is yours the Torquay bus?
Incidentally, as always I rewarded the telegram boy with a silver thruppenny piece which I will expect reimbursement of next time we meet.
Happy to stump up, old boy. Don't you owe me half a sov though, from Boat Race night? You bet me I wouldn't wear Matron's bloomers to the University Ball. Photo of said bloomers on it's way to you, by Post Office messenger boy!!
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What excellently painted groups and their buses. I am reminded by this why I only travel by personal car. Not only can you enjoy a quiet drink in the back but it is safer.
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Mason, those Grey cars do get about, is yours the Torquay bus?
Happy to stump up, old boy. Don't you owe me half a sov though, from Boat Race night? You bet me I wouldn't wear Matron's bloomers to the University Ball. Photo of said bloomers on it's way to you, by Post Office messenger boy!!
As I recall, your decision to wear the bloomers on your head rendered the wager null and, indeed, void....
What excellently painted groups and their buses. I am reminded by this why I only travel by personal car. Not only can you enjoy a quiet drink in the back but it is safer.
A very wise choice. I find the wine on offer in most buses to be distinctly inferior....
Doug
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As the 80b rumbles towards Much Rampling, we switch our attention to the pub in that village, The Green Man.
(https://velodoug.files.wordpress.com/2020/08/e67f9440-44eb-4d8e-89cc-83f50bef4ce4.jpeg)
This is where a thoughtful bus company have established the bus stop for the greater comfort and convenience of passengers.
Waiting almost furtively at the frankly crude, crap and embarrassing bus stop is a Mysterious Stranger, recently arrived in the village. This is Giselle Cas de Pression. The Cas de Pressions are distantly related to the old Devonshire family of Snapcase - something to do with over-hearty celebration after Agincourt.
(https://velodoug.files.wordpress.com/2020/08/d4257461-936d-4371-884b-bfe809393bd3.jpeg)
She is carrying what appears to be a large, leather map case. What can this portend, we wonder....?
Doug
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As I recall, your decision to wear the bloomers on your head rendered the wager null and, indeed, void....
Fair point, well made. Old Scrotum is bicycling over to Borsetshire now with your silver thrupenny bit. I have equipped him with a flask of cheap rum and a sandwich case containing his favourite cheese and marmite sandwiches. Perhaps you could top the flask up for his return journey (and don't let him touch anything, I know where he's been!).
The Cas de Pressions are distantly related to the old Devonshire family of Snapcase - something to do with over-hearty celebration after Agincourt.
Indeed, the Earldom of Snapcase was created by Henry V after the Battle of Agincourt for Sir Thomas Snapcase, a mere knight in Henry's employ. Sir Thomas stepped in front of Henry at a crucial moment in the battle and took a crossbow bolt in the shoulder, which was meant for the King. A secret diary kept by Thomas but never published revealed that he seen a rather shiny gold coin on the ground, just in front of the King and was stooping to pick it up, when he prematurely interrupted the flight of the bolt with his shoulder. It also reveals a night of licentious and debauched revelry spent in the company of one Fifi Cas de Pression, that liaison it seems, resulted in issue of the illegitimate kind. I believe the child was named Crispin Cas de Pression after the Saint's day the battle was fought on. The families do keep in touch after they were re-united in the Great War, but that's a story for another day!
However, ignore all this pointless digression, Giselle looks like the sort of lass any ageing Earl would love to be introduced to. As to the map case, well I have shot my bolt there in an earlier thread. One wonders whether she is waiting for the bus or waiting to meet the Grey League? Personally, I would have popped into the Green Man for a soothing libation of 6X!
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You're away with the start of another great story line Doug ex EM 4, who knows where it will end.
I suspect that Giselle Cas de Pression has a chip butty in her map case, although being French it will be a Pommes Frite, baguette, which explains why she needs a long thin mapcase for the baguette.
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Fair point, well made. Old Scrotum is bicycling over to Borsetshire now with your silver thrupenny bit. I have equipped him with a flask of cheap rum and a sandwich case containing his favourite cheese and marmite sandwiches. Perhaps you could top the flask up for his return journey (and don't let him touch anything, I know where he's been!).
Old Scrotum will be adequately compensated and re-victualled. I calculate that he should arrive by the third week in December,
You're away with the start of another great story line Doug ex EM 4, who knows where it will end.
I suspect that Giselle Cas de Pression has a chip butty in her map case, although being French it will be a Pommes Frite, baguette, which explains why she needs a long thin mapcase for the baguette.
Hopefully, it will end somewhere, having progressed through a beguiling beginning (where we are now), and an epic middle.
Your suggestion as to the contents of the map case is not without merit.
Anyway, the 80b has finally arrived at Much Rampling:
(https://velodoug.files.wordpress.com/2020/08/e29e3d8e-0617-434a-86ff-5653076f24ac.jpeg)
After their long, tiring journey, the Team erupt from the bus with an excess of energy, passing round the cider flagon enthusiastically:
(https://velodoug.files.wordpress.com/2020/08/7a899f5c-f47e-4c85-b0ee-720a839d52b5.jpeg)
At the same time, who should emerge from the pub but Stupefaction Queeg, last seen wandering the moors as Sir Rufus Pitt-Bulstrode and his followers battled the cultists of the Worried Throppet.
https://leadadventureforum.com/index.php?topic=125080.45 (https://leadadventureforum.com/index.php?topic=125080.45)
He bids a "good day" to Henrietta Ferkin who stops and enquires whether he can explain the arrival of these four boisterous, armed strangers on the 80b from Borchester? "Don’t ee know, Mistress Ferkin? Well I’m blowed; these are members of the highly secret and discreet Grey Morris - them as do search out and exact revenge on those disrespecting Morris Dancing. They do operate from a secret lair located no-one knows where. Dear oh dear, fancy you not knowing that...!"
"But, responds Mistress Ferkin, if they’re so secret and discreet, how is it that you........oh, never mind. Good day to you Farmer Queeg.”
Meanwhile, Giselle has, not surprisingly, attracted the attention of the Team Leader.......
Doug
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Henrietta not knowing the ins and outs of the secret Morris society no doubt speaks volumes as to her taste in quality music and dancing. Of course the same could be said about Stupefaction's preferences in entertainment.
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I don't know what I was expecting when I stumbled out of the heat haze and into this thread, but I declare it to be marvelous. Good show all around. I shall most certainly return.
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The tension is building and we are all agog to discover what part Giselle has to play in this mystery? :o
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Henrietta not knowing the ins and outs of the secret Morris society no doubt speaks volumes as to her taste in quality music and dancing. Of course the same could be said about Stupefaction's preferences in entertainment.
It is conceivable that this observation may fall within the purview of the Grey League. You should take precautions. :)
Thanks again for your interest
I don't know what I was expecting when I stumbled out of the heat haze and into this thread, but I declare it to be marvelous. Good show all around. I shall most certainly return.
I’m delighted to welcome you to my musings and thank you very much for your kind remarks. I hope to keep your interest.
The tension is building and we are all agog to discover what part Giselle has to play in this mystery? :o
Myself included (regarding Giselle's rôle). I mean, she must have one. Surely?
Doug
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Giselle's roll? I thought it had been ascertained that it was most likely a baguette?
Thanks for bringing some added fun to the board guys.
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Giselle's roll? I thought it had been ascertained that it was most likely a baguette?
...or maybe it's a Croque Monsieur?
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It is conceivable that this observation may fall within the purview of the Grey League. You should take precautions. :)
True, I live dangerously. Given the leagues penchant for using public transportation, my residence across the pond in an area almost devoid of any such conveyance, I suspect my slightly vague utterances won't make it to the top of their list. lol
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Giselle's roll? I thought it had been ascertained that it was most likely a baguette?
Ohhh.....!
Thanks for bringing some added fun to the board guys.
Thanks for joining in.... :D
...or maybe it's a Croque Monsieur?
Ohhhh; ohhhhh....!
True, I live dangerously. Given the leagues penchant for using public transportation, my residence across the pond in an area almost devoid of any such conveyance, I suspect my slightly vague utterances won't make it to the top of their list. lol
This Is recklessness at an insane level. You know not what you dabble in.... :D
Doug
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Dear oh dear - two months since an update...! I got delayed painting a few extra things for this game and that led to doing stuff for a different project which led to.......Well, you know how these things develop. So, on with the tale:
The Team Leader (Agent Herefordshire, to give him his operational name), after the first moments of bus disembarkation euphoria, recovers his natural authority and, unsurprisingly, takes note of Giselle. She in turn recognises his natural authority and moves sinuously into close contact with him. Speaking perfect English, without a trace of an 'Allo 'Allo accent, she says "Follow me to my room in the pub. Tell your men to wait in the bar and have a drink. They can charge it to my account; I 'ave, sorry, have, something to show you....."
With that, she abruptly but gracefully turned and stepped into the pub, leaving a faint but delectable hint of perfume hanging in the air.
Agent Herefordshire, after a moment's delicious contemplation, rallied his men and told them to wait in the bar and "mind your manners and don’t drink the place dry....!"
(https://velodoug.files.wordpress.com/2020/10/401fc385-898f-4c77-9e4e-0db1c8e0a435.jpeg)
No further encouragement was needed, within seconds, the Team were sampling the delights of The Green Man's bar whilst Herefordshire accompanied Giselle to her room
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Good to see you back in the saddle with this.
I did hear that the Green Man was being refurbished. Is it once again open for business? ;)
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Good to see you back in the saddle with this.
I did hear that the Green Man was being refurbished. Is it once again open for business? ;)
Thank you, m'lord....Yes, the Green Man has had a major refurb. All those interesting stains on the wallpaper have gone, which actually takes away some of the character.
Doug
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A very intelligent choice joining Giselle in her room for what will be a no doubt quiet discussion over a quality spirit with an appropriate charcuterie tray as opposed to the common room. Assuming of course, things don't get out of hand...
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Assuming of course, things don't get out of hand...
:o The very idea.... :o
Doug
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Seems like a cracking adventure in the making. Thanks for posting.
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Looking forward to this and hope that the usual suspects are involved :D
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:o The very idea.... :o
Doug
Well she is a spy. Could have sleeping potions, poison or even a weapon! Oh wait, that isn't what you were thinking is it? :o
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Seems like a cracking adventure in the making. Thanks for posting.
Thanks - I’m hoping it all comes together eventually... :)
Looking forward to this and hope that the usual suspects are involved :D
They almost certainly will be.....!
Well she is a spy. Could have sleeping potions, poison or even a weapon! Oh wait, that isn't what you were thinking is it? :o
I’m reassured.... :o
To continue:
Once Herefordshire and Giselle were in her room with the door safely closed, she put her map case on the table, opened it and withdrew - a map. More of a rough sketch really. In fact, quite a disappointing article considering the speculation as to what the case may have contained.
(https://velodoug.files.wordpress.com/2020/10/ba4982bf-02b1-462f-8942-530a64d7d259.jpeg)
"Agent, I have a map. On reflection, possibly a rough sketch would be a better description. Before I continue, let me introduce myself. I am Agent Salisbury of the Grey Morris Intelligence Section. And you are....?"
Finding himself unaccountably self-conscious, Herefordshire coughed, went red in the face, fiddled with the clasp on his holster flap, then, pulling himself together, introduced himself. "I am Senior Agent Herefordshire, Team Leader."
Giselle, aka Agent Salisbury, nodded "I have heard of you before; your reputation comes before you."
Agent Herefordshire was not too sure which part of his chequered reputation she may be familiar with so decided to assume it was to do with his efficiency and courage. Maybe it was.
"So. Our task is the rescue of Ephraim Hardstanding, a stalwart Morris man, violently kidnapped by a group of crazed cultists for purposes unknown but almost certainly depraved and murderous. We know that these villains are somewhere in the Wild Moorlands of central Borsetshire, a stark and lonely place.
(https://velodoug.files.wordpress.com/2020/10/858a6f31-1dc8-4546-b1e4-0613a30db133.jpeg)
They are thought to be on their way to the village of Ambridge which, to all intents and purposes, is an ordinary, respectable place. However, beneath this peaceful facade, it is a hell-hole of dark deeds, cult depravity and general wickedness. We must rescue Ephraim before he disappears into the miasma of evil that is Ambridge." Giselle paused for breath and Herefordshire pondered on what he had heard so far.
"Could they already be at this dreadful place?" He asked. "It’s been a few days since the abduction."
"No. There has been a stroke of good fortune which has helped our cause. The doughty Ephraim managed to escape whilst crossing The Wilds. He was recaptured but only after a day and two nights had passed. He had been able to retrace the route they had come and had reached the edge of The Wild before recapture. We know the group is now resting before starting again on their path across The Wild. I had a message from one of my informants this morning telling me what I have just told you and giving me a reliable indication of the group’s current whereabouts." Here she paused as the sound of several bumps or maybe thumps, followed by what may have been breaking glass or crockery, came from the floor below. She looked quizzically at Herefordshire who responded with what he hoped was a puzzled frown.
(https://velodoug.files.wordpress.com/2020/10/58b5dbf4-9b38-4f55-8a75-9712aa0dcda9.jpeg)
The Team members were enjoying the delights of the Green Man and if their frolicking round the fireplace caused some unintended breakages and minor damage, well, the Grey League treasurer would foot the bill; hopefully.....
TO BE CONTINUED - probably interminably......
Doug
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... village of Ambridge which, to all intents and purposes, is an ordinary, respectable place. However, beneath this peaceful facade, it is a hell-hole of dark deeds, cult depravity and general wickedness.
That certainly does make one want to drop in for visit.
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The pub refurbishment is looking very good, do they still serve the pork trotter pie on a Friday night?
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That certainly does make one want to drop in for visit.
You may not be aware of Ambridge. This is what they want you to believe about it:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Archers#Ambridge
We know better ;)
The pub refurbishment is looking very good, do they still serve the pork trotter pie on a Friday night?
Yes. And, yes, the pig still starts the evening off alive. However, it’s pointless you asking because you’re still barred after that disgraceful episode with the goat. The goat is still in therapy.
Doug
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You may not be aware of Ambridge. This is what they want you to believe about it:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Archers#Ambridge
We know better ;)
Ah. Hidden in plain sight. Took a page out of Orson Welles book - err, radio.
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"Perhaps, Agent Herefordshire, we should now invite your men up here to bring them up to date and also to spare the bar any accidental damage."
"Probably too late," he thought whilst nodding agreement. He hurried to the top of the stairs and gave the special Grey Morris whistle. Within seconds his men appeared at the bottom of the stairs, looking suspiciously innocent but also guiltily dishevelled. They clattered up to him and he directed them to Giselle’s room.
(https://velodoug.files.wordpress.com/2020/10/07235647-82b1-4fc7-b825-a1d4f89b18db.jpeg)
When the whole group was assembled in that quite small area, a certain amount of shuffling, buffeting and shoving occurred as the agents tried to find space for their guns, sticks, cider jars and potted meat sandwiches. When all were settled, Giselle clapped her hands to gain their attention.
Would you be kind enough to introduce your companions." This latter remark she addressed to Agent Herefordshire.
"Certainly, Agent Salisbury. In the corner, nursing his rifle, is Agent Staffordshire; the handsome fellow with the cider jug is Agent Shropshire and completing our Team is Agent Worcestershire. Lads, this is Agent Salisbury of the Intelligence Section."
(https://velodoug.files.wordpress.com/2020/10/0d4275b7-5f42-453a-bd2e-795c410c3e9e.jpeg)
The team gave Agent Salisbury a hearty welcome although there was some muttering along the lines of "Intelligence Section? Didn’t know we had one of them."
Giselle, indicating Herefordshire, said "your team leader will update you on the mission. I’m expecting a messenger with more information then we can start our operation. I’ll see you all downstairs."
Is it possible a game is about to break out....? We can only hope....
Doug
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Wonderful stuff :)
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Bugger me, a map in the map case! Is there no end to the deviousness of these Intelligence wallahs?
Giselle, aka Agent Salisbury, nodded "I have heard of you before; your reputation comes before you."
Perhaps Herefordshire was involved in the incident with the goat, along with Vagabond?
A very nice build up to what will be another stirring epic in the sleepy village of Ambridge. The Green Man looks excellent.
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Wonderful photos.
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Bugger me, a map in the map case! Is there no end to the deviousness of these Intelligence wallahs?
That is no doubt what they wish you to think.
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That is no doubt what they wish you to think.
Ah yes, I see what you mean syrinx0. The map is only there to mislead us. We must look behind the map for a much deeper meaning!
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Cracking stuff, young Sir!
Good to see you back in the saddle*.
8) 8)
*I do hope the unguents worked in the desired fashion.
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Perhaps Herefordshire was involved in the incident with the goat, along with Vagabond?
No, I’m pretty sure Vagabond acted alone. His goat-worrying, like his Throppet-worrying, is very much his solo pleasure.
The Green Man looks excellent.
Thanks - the bar refurb has yet to be completed and some of the bedrooms are looking a bit tired. Most worrying of all, there’s no bathroom for the residential guests.
Wonderful photos.
Thanks - I got some new lights which a LAFFER recommended on the Photography board and they are a big help.
That is no doubt what they wish you to think.
We know what they wish us to know but we don’t know if they know that.
Ah yes, I see what you mean syrinx0. The map is only there to mislead us. We must look behind the map for a much deeper meaning!
You mean the map is not an attempt to represent terrain and geographical interrelationships on to a handily portable piece of paper? This is dark work indeed.
Cracking stuff, young Sir!
Good to see you back in the saddle*.
8) 8)
Thanks, Paul.
*I do hope the unguents worked in the desired fashion.
Those were unguents? :o I thought they tasted funny :D ;D ;)
Doug
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Hello, hello.....! What’s going on here then? Who is this, exiting the grounds of Sir Rufus Pitt-Bulstrode's manor? And why the reckless velocity? (Sir Rufus being the squire of Much Rampling and the Lord Lieutenant of Borsetshire, let us not forget).
(https://velodoug.files.wordpress.com/2020/11/6d116112-26a8-425a-bd0b-fba928873cb4.jpeg)
Why, it’s none other than Lady Persistence Pitt-Bulstrode, the middle of his five wilful and determined daughters.
(https://velodoug.files.wordpress.com/2020/11/b8dc039f-e8fe-4f1c-96c0-2ec2984e8b5f.jpeg)
Where can she be off to at such a breakneck speed, a danger to herself and any innocent (or, indeed, guilty) person she may encounter? Could it be that she has a part to play in this epic adventure?
Doug
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Ah yes, I see what you mean syrinx0. The map is only there to mislead us. We must look behind the map for a much deeper meaning!
"you're looking at the map upside-down"
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Brill as always! I think you three; his Lordship,Vagabond and Doug are the LAF heroes of the forum for excellence above and beyond ,and for being fine chaps :)
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Steady on there Blackwolf, don't get carried away now.. :)
Lady Persistence has a jolly fine looking motorcycle , these dangerous dames sure know how to live and enjoy life in the fast lane. The local peasants and pheasants had better watch out.
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I must protest! Where is Agent Cork, or Agent Argyll & Bute, after all it's well known that the British Empire was built on the intelligence of the Irish and the diligence of the Scots. You can't rely on dilettante Eton schoolboys after all!
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I must protest! Where is Agent Cork, or Agent Argyll & Bute, after all it's well known that the British Empire was built on the intelligence of the Irish and the diligence of the Scots. You can't rely on dilettante Eton schoolboys after all!
Not that I know an Eton from a Radley school boy (ties perhaps?) but I assume Lady Persistence shall assist in the matter.
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Brill as always! I think you three; his Lordship,Vagabond and Doug are the LAF heroes of the forum for excellence above and beyond ,and for being fine chaps :)
Gosh....! Thanks very much (although between you and me, I’m not sure about the other two, to be honest)...
:DI must protest! Where is Agent Cork, or Agent Argyll & Bute, after all it's well known that the British Empire was built on the intelligence of the Irish and the diligence of the Scots. You can't rely on dilettante Eton schoolboys after all!
Well first, let me say that, having Scottish grandparents on my dad's side and Irish on my mother's (my Irish grandfather was called Paddy, for heavens sake :)), you’ll not find me diminishing those two fine nations. However, so far as I’m aware, Morris dancing is not big in Scotland. The Grey League recruits its field operatives from active Morris groups and these tend to be in the English shires and Welsh border so the naming tradition has evolved from there (the Intelligence Section recruits from further afield, hence Giselle).
The agents themselves tend to be of the horny-handed, yeoman types - Etonians are very thin on the ground in the Grey League.
Lady Persistence has a jolly fine looking motorcycle , these dangerous dames sure know how to live and enjoy life in the fast lane.
They do - it’s no wonder Sir Rufus' solitary son took off to fight in the Spanish Civil War at the first opportunity. Having five sisters like his made that conflict seem mild by comparison with his home life...!
Doug
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Looks like her Ladyship is opening up her throttle & to hell with the consequences lol lol
Lovely work Doug :)
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Leaving the Team to finish their beers, pay for incidental damages and visit the Gents, Giselle makes her way out to the front of The Green Man, anxiously scanning the road. Could this be the messenger she’s waiting for, approaching at an illegal speed?
(https://velodoug.files.wordpress.com/2020/11/a83a5693-8658-468f-a67f-6e2f94218a68.jpeg)
Indeed it is, so a minor mystery is solved. The purpose of Lady Persistence's wild escapade was to meet Giselle- she is the messenger that Giselle has been waiting for. The two intrepid ladies have a brief discussion which, we can be sure, will have important consequences.
(https://velodoug.files.wordpress.com/2020/11/10a44240-5123-4c8f-95bf-e35ee0070c42.jpeg)
Surely, now, a game is about to happen? Please.....!
Doug
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Lovely little set up Doug :)
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The two intrepid ladies have a brief discussion which, we can be sure, will have important consequences.
After such a wild ride Lady Persistence is no doubt wondering if the inn has a decent hard cider as a palatable wine is unlikely.
Oh, is there a game afoot?
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The purpose of Lady Persistence's wild escapade was to meet Giselle- she is the messenger that Giselle has been waiting for. The two intrepid ladies have a brief discussion which, we can be sure, will have important consequences.
Events are getting deeper and deeper. The appearance of Lady Persistence (love the name) merely adds to the mystery that has been building up here. Keep it up, old bean! Pip, pip.
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It's great that you have a mounted and dismounted figure for that fine looking gel Lady Persistence, she would look awfully out of place riding the motor cycle up the stairs at the Green Man.
Although on second thoughts maybe not. :D
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Lovely little set up Doug :)
Thanks, Panama. It’s much easier setting up these photo vignettes than laying out a whole table.
After such a wild ride Lady Persistence is no doubt wondering if the inn has a decent hard cider as a palatable wine is unlikely.
Oh, is there a game afoot?
She’s a wild rider and she always brings her own bottle - whisky rather than wine. Brings her own glass as well - you never know who been using these pub glasses.
Events are getting deeper and deeper. The appearance of Lady Persistence (love the name) merely adds to the mystery that has been building up here. Keep it up, old bean! Pip, pip.
It’s a mystery to me, that’s for sure. :)
It's great that you have a mounted and dismounted figure for that fine looking gel Lady Persistence, she would look awfully out of place riding the motor cycle up the stairs at the Green Man.
Although on second thoughts maybe not. :D
She rode a horse into the council chamber at Borchester and threatened to give the Town Clerk a thrashing after some perceived insult to her father so the motor bike in the Green Man is distinctly possible.
Doug
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She rode a horse into the council chamber at Borchester and threatened to give the Town Clerk a thrashing
Sounds like my kind of girl!
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Steady lol
Lady Persistence - what a marvellous creation, Doug :-*
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Sounds like my kind of girl!
I thought that myself.... :D
Steady lol
Lady Persistence - what a marvellous creation, Doug :-*
Thank you....! Bit by bit, I hope to introduce her 4 sisters. She is the middle one of the 5 and her name is considered by many to be particularly apposite lol
And let us not forget her formidable mother, Lady Ferocity Pit-Bulstrode who first appeared in the Throppets Hentilaget Caper:
https://leadadventureforum.com/index.php?topic=125080.15
Doug
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Thanks, Panama. It’s much easier setting up these photo vignettes than laying out a whole table.
Yep Doug it is & can be just as much fun :)
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I think this is called Threadomancy.....Not to worry because things have proceeded to the stage of imminent violence:
The message that lady P had brought for Gisselle was that the cultists had stolen a steam-driven lorry and chugged their way over the Wild Moorlands and had reached Sweaty Man Crossroads (actually a Y junction but country folk sometimes have strange ideas) when their vehicle literally ran out of steam. Whilst they were attempting to fix it, Ephraim was taken by John Bellator to the nearby Cringing Peasant Inn (said to be the highest hostelry in Borsetshire). The landlord, under duress, agreed to allow John to lock Ephraim in the Inn's store room.
(https://velodoug.files.wordpress.com/2020/11/a271f546-5d6a-4708-9138-5acdfb7b10f1.jpeg)
After their pell-mell dash across the Wild Moorlands, sometimes reaching speeds approaching 12mph they have now started the descent into less bleak terrain but the problem with the lorry has allowed the Grey Morris, alerted by Lady Persistence, to catch them up.
(https://velodoug.files.wordpress.com/2021/02/345ee9be-6aba-41c7-bdec-eb2aea0a5805.jpeg)
So, groups of armed men and women are abroad in Borsetshire. There is a grave risk of deadly violence. Can anything stop a sanguinary clash. NOT A CHANCE.........!
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Good to see the Gentlemen of Much-Piddling are still able to get some gaming in.
Definetly looking forward to the threatened tales of this outbreak of ultra violence.
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Ah hah!
The chase is on. Tension is building...
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nSnKkuInBhg (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nSnKkuInBhg)
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(https://velodoug.files.wordpress.com/2020/11/ac03bba2-7e89-4a5f-b2c3-d54d6b6fb9b3.jpeg) Some random shots by the retreating cultists have led to the Morris debussing and, as Agent Herefordshire says after a few ciders, "going tactical".
(https://velodoug.files.wordpress.com/2021/04/69fed1cd-9bd5-4160-af58-f3c87d48d8dd.jpeg)
(https://velodoug.files.wordpress.com/2021/04/12981682-ef6a-4573-8407-0c056eed3e1f.jpeg)
The cultists have Martin Bellator trying to repair the lorry and John Bellator guarding Ephraim in the inn. Sumus Bellator Adiutor is covering the right fork of the junction while Rodney Bellator moves into concealment behind the hedge to guard the left fork. At the centre of the road junction is Steve Bellator, lovingly nursing his flame thrower. Throppetus Summus Bellator (the chapter leader) remains further back in what he calls a Command and Reserve rôle (when he says this, he says it with capitalisation). We are all set.
(https://velodoug.files.wordpress.com/2020/11/9c93b43b-4491-410b-8f02-b59f9d837cdb.jpeg)
So, a clash is imminent. Scenery is laid out and the all important character cards are placed conveniently and we’re ready to go.
(https://velodoug.files.wordpress.com/2020/11/ae90f8f0-0717-4511-838a-1c78f773b9f7.jpeg)
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Tell me more... :-*
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Tell me more... :-*
Indeed!
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Exciting stuff Doug :)
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Exciting stuff Doug :)
Thank you.... :)
We continue:
Acting on Lady Persistence's information, the Greys know where the cultists are and where they are heading. With the benefit of her local knowledge, the team has arrived on a side road which gives them the opportunity of cutting off the cultists' escape route. The photo shows the route the cultists need to take (red arrow) and the intended advance of the Greys. Herefordshire and Staffordshire will charge down the road, hoping to surprise the cultists while they are trying to repair the lorry and to rescue Ephraim (black arrow). The other two are to cut across the field to block the cultists road north (yellow arrow).
(https://velodoug.files.wordpress.com/2021/04/f0256984-62a0-480f-b1f2-f4695bbfe1c0.jpeg)
I’m using Pulp Alley as the rules for this game but with modifications. A couple that spring to mind are:
1. Instead of selecting which side has initiative each turn, I’m going to rotate it on a turn-by-turn basis. The cultists will have it on the first turn, the Morris on the second etc etc.
2. The cultists won’t be forced to activate in the sequence outlined in the Solo rules.
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Herefordshire and Staffordshire will charge down the road, hoping to surprise the cultists while they are trying to repair the lorry and to rescue Ephraim (black arrow). The other two are to cut across the field to block the cultists road north (yellow arrow).
Some very advanced tactical thinking here by the Grey League! Very impressive. That wobble juice they've been knocking back from their cider jars has not affected the old grey cells one iota!
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Some very advanced tactical thinking here by the Grey League! Very impressive.......
Well, you say that but.......time will tell.....!
Doug
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As it’s May Day, you should have been up at dawn to play the game and see in the Summer, Doug ;)
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As it’s May Day, you should have been up at dawn to play the game and see in the Summer, Doug ;)
Are you saying I wasn’t, Cap'n.....? :D
Doug
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lol
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We’ve got a new puppy so lying in bed until dawn would be a luxury :-*
Doug
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We’ve got a new puppy so lying in bed until dawn would be a luxury :-*
Doug
Ah, puppies are brilliant,however so much work. What is the nature of your new family member?
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Ah, puppies are brilliant,however so much work. What is the nature of your new family member?
A very lively sprocker (Springer/Cocker)....
Doug
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Interesting looking game...just shows you don’t need hundreds of figures on the table to pose a tactical dilemma...the Greys could be in trouble if the cultists see they outnumber the group pushing up the road :D
And you have my sympathy re:the puppy... my two dogs woke me up early doors today, then promptly went back to sleep lol
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Interesting looking game...just shows you don’t need hundreds of figures on the table to pose a tactical dilemma...the Greys could be in trouble if the cultists see they outnumber the group pushing up the road :D
And you have my sympathy re:the puppy... my two dogs woke me up early doors today, then promptly went back to sleep lol
You have to think a little bit about how to introduce a bit of tactical choice in solo games, I find. Also, if you have an investment in the characters, it’s not so easy to be totally gung-ho...Furthermore, rules like Pulp Alley can throw spanners in the works quite regularly.
As regards puppies and sleeping, I’m now in a routine of going to bed at 9.30 ready for my 5.00am wake-up call. And you’ve got 2....! Are they pups?
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ftp://
A very lively sprocker (Springer/Cocker)....
Doug
Haha,brilliant! My Grandmother bred Cockers,and competed in gun dog trials,they are part of my genetic inheritance . Though my girl ,a rescue is a Cattle dog/Bull Terrier :) Who insists on a walk at 7.00 am.
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TURN 1: The cultists will go first (see above regarding Initiative). Rodney, Steve and the Adiutor (the three guarding the road approaches) are Hidden. Things don’t start too well for them. As Rodney noisily attempts to gain maximum cover from the hedge, he disturbs a sleeping adder. The reptile is disgruntled and relieves its frustration by sinking its fangs into Rodney’s leg. He, in turn, shrieks, collapses and goes into shock. He is Down and Out. <he failed a Challenge and the subsequent Health rolls>.Throppetus Summus Bellator reluctantly accepts that, as he is in Reserve, he’d better move up and take Rodney’s place (carefully avoiding adders). As Martin has not been able to repair the lorry, that completes the cultists' turn.
(https://velodoug.files.wordpress.com/2021/04/16a2dab4-4ad4-46c6-b921-57ae9263c736.jpeg)
The Greys set off with Herefordshire and Staffordshire racing up the road hoping to surprise the cultists by a display of daring coupled with élan (and maybe a hint of recklessness). Staffordshire manages to get his legs entangled with his stick but recovers without any damage done <survives a Peril played on him by The Adiutor who drew the relevant card>.
(https://velodoug.files.wordpress.com/2021/04/d953753a-04c4-4a18-8932-a8d5dcdad56a.jpeg)
Meanwhile, Shropshire and Gloucestershire have set off at a fast pace across the fields towards the road north. Herefordshire and Staffordshire can be seen racing up the road in the background.
(https://velodoug.files.wordpress.com/2021/04/98469d7b-ee4c-44b9-bf0a-1732e26e3c16.jpeg)
Giselle is standing in a field by the van and appears to be singing.
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Some people just don’t realise how dangerous the English countryside can be
...it’s like a jungle out here ;) :D
As regards puppies and sleeping, I’m now in a routine of going to bed at 9.30 ready for my 5.00am wake-up call. And you’ve got 2....! Are they pups?
A pair of 3 year old beagles....wake with the dawn, have a sing song, then go back to sleep having woken me up. ;D
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Some people just don’t realise how dangerous the English countryside can be
...it’s like a jungle out here ;) :D
The Wild Moorlands of Borsetshire are particularly savage.
A pair of 3 year old beagles....wake with the dawn, have a sing song, then go back to sleep having woken me up. ;D
Oh no; I was hoping this was just puppy behaviour :(
Doug
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The Wild Moorlands of Borsetshire are particularly savage.
A farmer near to us has had to put out signs to warn random townies not to stroll through his fields when the cows have young calves....apparently it comes as a bit of a shock that cows can be aggressive ;)
Oh no; I was hoping this was just puppy behaviour :(
Not as far as I can see....one of the reasons why coffee is my friend.
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A pair of 3 year old beagles....wake with the dawn, have a sing song, then go back to sleep having woken me up. ;D
The joy of scent hounds ;)
Odds are that they're smelling Mr or Mrs Fox on it's way home.
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The Wild Moorlands of Borsetshire are particularly savage.
Good idea to stay to the path then!
A pair of 3 year old beagles....wake with the dawn, have a sing song, then go back to sleep having woken me up. ;D
My black lab (sadly no longer with us) sat by his food bowl every morning at 5:30 am waiting for me to fill it on my way out for work. Saturdays he sometimes waited until 6:30 am before inquiring rather insistently he be fed. Took years to convince him to sleep in until 7:30 am.
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TURN 2: Morris to go first. As the adversaries of both sides steel themselves for what is to come, a strange, inexplicable lassitude affects all present. Everyone slows to walking pace, looks vacantly around and has no thoughts of doing anything as energetic as shooting, running or fighting <the card CALM was drawn which has the effect outlined above. This only lasts for 1 turn>.
Agent Staffordshire is still having trouble with his stick and this time manages do himself a painful mischief <he fails a challenge and his Health drops a level>. Nevertheless, he manages to keep pace with Herefordshire who, whilst feeling the same strange ennui as everyone else, manages to spot Steve Bellator although he can do nothing about it.
The other two Morris men amble across the fields and reach the hedges bordering the road to the North.
(https://velodoug.files.wordpress.com/2021/04/e0179ffb-3b45-4d1d-a6d3-7ae3008801dc.jpeg)
Giselle is still "singing"?
The cultists are feeling just as inexplicably chilled as the Morris. The Adiutor stays put. Steve stroll over to take cover behind a wall having seen the approach of Herefordshire and Staffordshire and the Summus Bellator takes cover behind the lorry having been made aware of the approach of the two Morris men by Steve.
(https://velodoug.files.wordpress.com/2021/04/1c66e54b-12e2-45f5-b55d-5f1a3001264d.jpeg)
The turn is ended by Staffordshire making a failed Recovery roll. His Health remains reduced.
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I glance away and when I look back, two turns have taken place and a whole litter of hounds have joined the thread! :o
I suspect that this suspicious ennui that the protagonists are feeling may be as a result of crossing a magic-mushroom field. No wonder Giselle is singing.
Great stuff! :-*
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I suspect that this suspicious ennui that the protagonists are feeling may be as a result of crossing a magic-mushroom field. No wonder Giselle is singing.
Great stuff! :-*
Thanks, old sport and of course, I hadn’t thought about the mushrooms - that must have been it....!
TURN 3: Cultists start and things immediately hot up. The Adiutor opens up on Herefordshire and Staffordshire with his tommy gun. They Dodge out of range. The road they were advancing on is now a Perilous area. The Adiutor loses control of his gun during the prolonged burst of fire and wrenches his shoulder. He loses a level of health <a failed Peril and Health roll result>. The hail of fire also blocks the line-of-sight of the rest of the cultists so they do nothing. Martin has not been able to get the lorry going yet.
(https://velodoug.files.wordpress.com/2021/04/2e37d839-a1f1-40f2-b876-5d4631da2581.jpeg)
Morris. Herefordshire runs to the left to outflank The Adiutor. He opens up and misses...! The Adiutor responds and also misses...! Staffordshire, unsettled by the smg attack, is slow to follow his leader <card effect>.
The other two reach their objective on the North road and set up their ambush, facing south.
(https://velodoug.files.wordpress.com/2021/04/47e91bd8-a4e9-4843-8b45-1434d068db12.jpeg)
Giselle is singing.
Recovery. Both Staffordshire and The Adiutor fail their Recovery rolls.[/i]
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Seems that "spray and pray" is not the best strategy if your prayers go to whoever it is these cultists follow... lol
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Seems that "spray and pray" is not the best strategy if your prayers go to whoever it is these cultists follow... lol
They may be misguided.... :D
TURN 4
The Morris draw cards. Oh dear....! Agent Gloucestershire (he of the cider jug) has obviously had too much. Put simply, he falls over <fails a Challenge on the card he drew>.
(https://velodoug.files.wordpress.com/2021/04/3d0018d2-8f9a-4a64-b179-ce4e20982cde.jpeg)
Agent Shropshire remains Hidden in ambush.
Things are still working against Staffordshire . He gets totally tangled up in brambles and takes all of the turn to extricate himself <fails a Challenge on the card he drew>. Herefordshire shoots at The Adiutor who returns the fire. Both score two hits. Herefordshire decides not to cancel any of the hits on him so both must make two Health rolls which they do successfully. Herefordshire then moves out of sight. Giselle is singing. End of Morris turn.
Cultists' turn. Martin Bellator is still toiling over the lorry without success. The Adiutor and Steve decide to go after Herefordshire since he’s the only one who has actually attacked them and they know where he is. Steve attempts to climb the outcrop that Herefordshire ducked behind. Encumbered by his flame-thrower fuel tanks, he fails. This ends his turn although he doesn’t suffer any other negative effects. The Adiutor follows Herefordshire and sends another hail of tommy-gun fire at him. Once again, Herefordshire Dodges successfully.
Herefordshire is helpfully circled in red to show his position. Staffordshire, wrestling out-of-sight with brambles, is circled in blue.
(https://velodoug.files.wordpress.com/2021/05/d55bccff-26fa-4abc-8f55-f31b7ca686fb.jpeg)
Summus Bellator (the Leader - remember?) stays close to the lorry, protecting Martin and guarding the road north. He feels he’s doing two vital and dangerous jobs while all his men are having an easy time just doing one.
Things may be improving for Staffordshire - he makes a successful Recovery Roll. Alas, Gloucestershire can do no more than babble drunkenly; he’s still down. Similarly, The Adiutor has no luck and remains on reduced Health. End of Turn 4.
<Note: I forgot to take the Adiutor's reduced Health into account during his gun battle with Herefordshire. Lucky old Adiutor....!>
Doug
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Turn 5
Whoa.....! What’s this? I’ll tell you what it is. The cultists reinforcements have arrived <they’ve been trying to get them since Turn 3; it’s all decided by a die roll which has now been successful>.
(https://velodoug.files.wordpress.com/2021/04/d0e702c0-e68c-454e-b210-1fc29470f43a.jpeg)
They are a Team of the Worried Throppet Cult Assault Warriors. This is a problem for Agents Gloucestershire and Shropshire. They have positioned themselves to interdict any move north along the road by the cultists at the crossroads. Another group of cultists advancing south along that road was not expected. Add to that Gloucestershire keeling over, the worse for drink and it’s obvious that Shropshire has a problem.
Cards are drawn for the cultists. As a result, Bellator Impetum Derek, responding to a cry of "Watch out, someone’s hiding behind the hedge", pulls the trigger on his pistol and shoots himself in the foot - Down and, indeed, Out....! It was Bellator Impetum Kevin who had shouted; he’d spotted Agent Shropshire. There’s an ineffective exchange of shots. The Throppetus Princeps Impetus (circled in blue) orders the rest of his men to the flanks. He himself bursts through the hedge to the right. Peculiari Cultum In Secundo Gradu fails to follow him whilst Bellator Impetum Primus Genus (circled in red) leaps over the fence to the left and advances towards Shropshire.
(https://velodoug.files.wordpress.com/2021/05/7158c970-1ec9-4707-bfb2-efcec598338f.jpeg)
Back at the crossroads, meanwhile, The Adiutor, opens up on Herefordshire who again Dodges out of danger. Steve Bellator again fails to manoeuvre his flame thrower gear up the hill. End of the cultist's turn.
It’s the Morris' turn and once again it’s Whoa.....!...What’s this? You know what? It’s déja vu all over again.
(https://velodoug.files.wordpress.com/2021/05/3c63c040-4474-446e-bee3-2ece9c26f99f.jpeg)
More new arrivals and this time from the south and these are new arrivals with knobs on. On the prosaic side, we have Farmer Silas Grundy; you probably wouldn’t have expected him to turn up in the middle of a gun fight but not beyond the bounds of possibility. But his companions? This is getting strange. Not to string it out, they are scarecrows; walking; apparently alive. Hmmm...? So far, no-one has noticed them.
Herefordshire takes a shot at the Adiutor who replies and both miss. Staffordshire, for once able to do something, opens up on a surprised Adiutor and once again, he responds and once again there are no hits. To round off the action (action? Are you kidding me?), Shropshire and Bellator Kevin exchange ineffective shots.
(https://velodoug.files.wordpress.com/2021/05/c7068222-8a01-47aa-a1bf-85f164c90742.jpeg)
Health rolls are made resulting in Staffordshire returning to full Health; no-one else succeeds in regaining lost Health. Gloucestershire is Out and removed from the scene <this should have happened last turn after he failed his Recovery roll but I, er, forgot>.
Giselle has stopped singing.
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Well no wonder Giselle stopped singing. Who could have expected Farmer Silas Grundy and his cloth golems?
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Bloody hell! It's all happening now.
Oh dear....! Agent Gloucestershire (he of the cider jug) has obviously had too much. Put simply, he falls over
Probably had some of those mushrooms that Giselle found? In tandem with his consumption of the old wobble-juice, it's no wonder he went arse-over-tit!
As a result, Bellator Impetum Derek, responding to a cry of "Watch out, someone’s hiding behind the hedge", pulls the trigger on his pistol and shoots himself in the foot
lol lol lol lol lol
Great stuff!! :-*
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TURN 6
Towards the south, the scarecrows lurch forward, followed by Farmer Grundy. None of the cultists appear to have noticed them.
(https://velodoug.files.wordpress.com/2021/04/bdd7b52a-99a2-4f26-8a4b-16c4c1f82386.jpeg)
Scarecrows lurching whilst Herefordshire and Staffordshire wreak havoc
Herefordshire for once has the drop on The Adiutor and makes no mistake. His accurate shooting sees The Adiutor Down and Herefordshire unscathed...! Agent Staffordshire, now in the best of Health, storms round a clump of trees, spots Steve Bellator and opens fire. Steve responds <not with his flame thrower - Blast can’t be used to counter-attack>, hits are scored and when the smoke clears, Steve is Down.
Meanwhile, at the north end of the action, Bellator Impetum Primus Genus is fired upon by Agent Shropshire. In the exchange of fire, its Shropshire who comes off worse and takes a hit. His Health is reduced but his opponent escapes injury.
(https://velodoug.files.wordpress.com/2021/04/26726a83-e33b-4106-bc06-a26c2357bfff.jpeg)
End of Morris' turn.
Tremendous excitement at the beginning of the cultists turn. First, there’s a couple of loud-ish explosions, then a great cloud of steam and then a clutch of interesting mechanical noises - yes; Martin has got the steam lorry started...! Meanwhile, the recently arrived cultist group at the north end of the table is having mixed fortunes. Bellator Impetum Kevin has been seized by the same over-enthusiastic attitude as Derek and has succumbed to a self-inflicted wound. However the Primus Genus has succeeded in Downing Agent Shropshire and, along with the other surviving members of the Assault team, is advancing quickly up the road towards their comrades who are also having mixed fortunes.
(https://velodoug.files.wordpress.com/2021/04/8e8c78ab-15fb-4fd4-9a01-cc79d17ec71f.jpeg)
Agent Shropshire is Down…!
With The Adiutor and Steve both Down as a result of the Morris attacks and the advance of the scarecrows, only the Summus (he’s the Leader - do keep up) is active (apart from Martin but he’s in the lorry). Summus sprints round the back of the inn with the intention of getting John Bellator to bring their prisoner round to the lorry so they can escape.
(https://velodoug.files.wordpress.com/2021/04/7da81c42-73ae-43a3-ac91-0449f646f331.jpeg)
Summus - sprinting
The end of turn Recovery rolls do not go well for the cultists. Kevin is automatically Out; The Adiutor and Steve both fail so are also Out. To complete the tale of woe, Agent Shropshire succeeds and is back on his feet.
END OF TURN 6
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Looking like the Grey League are getting the upper hand.
Good to see you back at this.
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Looking like the Grey League are getting the upper hand.
Good to see you back at this.
Thanks, m'lord…. :)
It’s the Cultists to go first. The Assault team leader clambers back over the hedge and sprints up the road towards the Inn. The Peculiari Cultum In Secundo Gradu (his title is more impressive than his abilities which are meagre) is ahead of him.
(https://velodoug.files.wordpress.com/2021/04/a9d61437-50b7-443d-8ba8-3a28ceef1b8c.jpeg)
Meanwhile, Martin Bellator engages the drive on the lorry and moves on to the road to await the Summus who has gone to fetch John Bellator and Ephraim, their captive from the Inn.
(https://velodoug.files.wordpress.com/2021/04/833e7dc3-87e6-49a8-b4b4-c6866ca54bde.jpeg)
Ephraim has been allowed to keep his accordion and has been keeping John entertained with a medley of his favourite tunes. He has been allowed considerable freedom by his captors but John has taken the precaution of tying the prisoners ankles together, just in case. With the Summus yelling at him to "get a move on" he makes a meal of untying the knots - it takes him a Full Action and leaves no opportunity for him and the prisoner to move this Turn.
Over to the combined Morris/Scarecrow side. Agent Staffordshire takes a flying leap at the low stone wall with the intention of taking a shot at the lorry. He misjudged his jump and takes a tumble. He manages to jump straight back up with no harm done but that completes his turn. Herefordshire runs to the road and spots a cultist running up it towards him. He scores 2 Hits but they’re ineffective. In return, the cultist shoots and misses. The Scarecrows lumber off in the vague direction of the lorry but Farmer Grundy yells, to no one in particular, "that’s Ephraim's accordion I can hear....! I’m coming for you, cousin. Hang on...!”
(https://velodoug.files.wordpress.com/2021/04/c3b3217a-d236-481f-a99d-7615dc8d2026.jpeg)
Dashing into the Inn, he runs headlong into the Summus. Taken by surprise, the Summus is unable to use any of his powers it’s not his turn> so can only fight back or attempt to Dodge. He is not built for brawling. He decides to Dodge. He is surprisingly agile for a sixteen stone man but nevertheless takes a shrewd blow and his Health is reduced.
(https://velodoug.files.wordpress.com/2021/04/565f3c8e-b5b5-4d51-9301-9b10a3d3cbec.jpeg)
Recovery. The Summus is the only one carrying an injury. He fails his roll.[/size]
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More good stuff, keep it coming. :-*
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TURN 8
The Morris/Scarecrow side (hereinafter called "The Morris"side) goes first and, immediately, the Initiative passes to the other side...! <this is caused by a "Surprise Twist" card being drawn> So the Cultists get to have their turn first, except, they don’t...! <the final card is drawn by the Assault Team leader and he gets "Quirk of Fate" which cancels any immediately any effects caused by previously drawn cards. So the Initiative returns ato the Morris side>.
The Summus did not successfully Dodge from the enraged onslaught of Farmer Grundy so he is forced to receive that worthy's Attack again. Farmer Grundy is fighting mad and gets 3 Hits. The Summus fails to block any. He saves 2 with his Health roll but the 1 failure reduces his Health level by one; he’s teetering on the brink and is locked in combat.
(https://velodoug.files.wordpress.com/2021/04/4be81060-5547-42a6-abfd-59f637e8caa7.jpeg)
THE END
Agent Shropshire attempts to Dodge away from the Primus Genus but fails although once again, he is able to take a couple of Hits without suffering any injury.
Of the scarecrows, Turnip Treader and Wheat Wanderer lurch down the road, past the lorry and head towards the members of the Assault Team who are approaching from the north. Cornstalker, their Leader, clambers over the low wall and follows. Barley Blunderer finds the wall too taxing an obstacle and fails to get over it. Agent Staffordshire moves up to the lorry and looses off a fusillade of shots. All miss. Martin Bellator, the driver, returns the fire and scores a Hit but it is ineffective.
(https://velodoug.files.wordpress.com/2021/04/1fdb5eff-4056-4826-bec7-c1604a425037.jpeg)
Agent Herefordshire vaults the wall with ease and moves alongside the lorry. End of Morris side turn.
First up in the cultists turn is the Primus Genus and he’s going at poor old Agent Shropshire again who, again, fails to Dodge and again, suffers no injury. Boring....The Peculiari Cultum In Secundo Gradu gallops up the road to take on Wheat Wanderer (cultists aren’t fazed by wandering scarecrows - far from it). Too late, Peculiari realises that Wheat Wanderer is altogether more capable in a fight than he is. Luckily, although he loses the Brawl, he suffers no injury. The Throppetus Princeps Impetum (Assault Team leader) follows the Primus up the road and directs a curse at Agent Staffordshire. Apart from being aware of a slight undefinable unpleasantness, Staffordshire is unaffected. The Princeps Impetum follows up more prosaically by opening fire. Staffordshire returns the compliment with the result that The Princeps takes a hit which he fails to save and thus is reduced in Health. Staffordshire is unhurt.
Meanwhile, in the inn, Bellator John is in a quandary. On his Leader's orders, he untied Ephraim. Then Farmer Grundy burst in and started lashing out at the Leader. Ephraim took advantage and escaped from John’s custody. John decides he must regain control of Ephraim. Having been captured by the cult, dragged across the Wild Moorlands, escaped, re-captured, driven at more than 15mph in a steam lorry and then incarcerated in an inn with his ankles tied but no offer of alcohol, Ephraim has reached the limit of his legendary patience. With controlled fury, he wallops John with his accordion and drops him unconscious with one blow. Meanwhile, the Leader is still engaged, much against his will, in a fight with Farmer Grundy. Unable to use any of his dark powers, he is no match for the enraged Farmer and soon measures his length at the feet of that stalwart yeoman. Finally, Martin Bellator, sitting in the cab of the lorry waiting for his Leader to reappear, takes a shot at Staffordshire who returns fire. The result is a hit on Staffordshire and he takes damage - Health reduced again.
Recovery phase. The only injured characters are the two cult leaders and Staffordshire. He rolls first but fails to recover; still injured, therefore but not down. Next, the Assault Leader and he also fails to improve his Health. Finally. The Summus who is down. He succeeds and staggers to his feet again, to meet the baleful stare of Farmer Grundy.
End of turn
TURN 9
Cultists to start. Primus Genus is first and he’s continuing his struggle with Agent Shropshire who, again, fails to Dodge but this time receives an injury, reducing his Health.
Peculiari Cultum in Secundo is still fighting Wheat Wanderer. Against the odds, he causes damage without suffering himself. Wheat Wanderer, however, being an animated scarecrow, shrugs off a mere single Hit. The Princeps Impetum charges with a wild yell straight at Agent Staffordshire, who Dodges with ease. Finally, the Summus Bellator, having failed to subdue Farmer Grundy with a Dark Presence curse, decides to put his own safety above securing Ephesians and flees from the wrath of Farmer Grundy through the inn’s back door.
(https://velodoug.files.wordpress.com/2021/04/333a95ca-c516-448e-803b-81362ba2c365.jpeg)
End of cultists turn.
Now it’s the Morris turn. Agent Shropshire has had enough of trying to Dodge away from his formidable opponent so decides on an all-or-nothing attack. Sadly for him, it’s nothing. No damage to his opponent but a painful blow to him - he’s Down...!
(https://velodoug.files.wordpress.com/2021/04/8e8c78ab-15fb-4fd4-9a01-cc79d17ec71f.jpeg)
Next, the scarecrows and Barley Blunderer manages to get over the low wall and lumber towards the lorry. Wheat Warrior continues his battle with his improbably named opponent but fails to land a blow. The Peculiari Cultum, realising he’s taken on something quite tough, Dodges away from the fight. However, he’s not in the clear yet. Turnip Treader stomps past his comrade and bashes into the Peculiari. This time the savage straw man makes no mistake and the Peculiari is Down...!
(https://velodoug.files.wordpress.com/2021/04/0debe194-913d-4ede-9667-859600a7ce57.jpeg)
Cornstalker, the Leader of the scarecrows, goes in hard against the Princeps Impetum but despite energetic flailing on both sides, no harm is done. However Agent Staffordshire, seeing the Princeps is visibly tiring after two bouts of combat this turn, returns to face the opponent he only a few minutes ago Dodged from. The Princeps, in turn, successfully Dodges; he hopes to buy time to regain his energy. However, seeing his discomfort, Agent Herefordshire abandons his plan of leaping into the back of the lorry and charges straight at him - the two main leaders in a hand-to-hand, knock-'em-down and drag-‘em-out struggle.
Farmer Grundy, leaving a slightly bemused Ehphraim to enjoy his freedom, pursues The Summus and catches him in the inn courtyard. The Summus fails to Dodge and is whacked mightily by the Farmer - Once; Twice; Thrice....! And amazingly, suffers no injury.
(https://velodoug.files.wordpress.com/2021/04/42194360-98bc-4789-921b-13e080f9cded.jpeg)
Recovery. Staffordshire returns to full Health. Shropshire fails and joins his companion Gloucestershire- Out. The Princeps returns to full Health. The Peculiari recovers and stands up and the Summus also regains a level of Health. The cultists are looking strong again after a turn which may have seen them lose several members. However, they have lost there hostage, Ephraim. Will they fight on and try to regain him? Or have they had enough?
TURN 10
Whether the cultists want to fight on or not is irrelevant- the Morris side does and it’s their turn to go first. Barley Blunderer goes first and draws a card which means that every character must draw one before taking their turn. Oh 'eck- this is going to cause chaos.Staffordshire goes next and shoots at Martin in the lorry who returns fire. No hits are taken. Herefordshire goes next and renews his battle with the Primus. He scores a hit and the Primus is injured...! Can the scarecrows capitalise on this with fresh attacks? Turnip Treader goes next but can’t move...! <card effect>. Is the Primus going to escape from further attacks? Not if Cornstalker has any say in the matter. Lurching into an unsteady run, he assaults the enemy leader. The Primus staggers back as a telling blow lands whereas Cornstalker is un affected. Now it’s Barley Blunderer. Shrugging aside a card Peril, he joins the melee round the Primus. No injuries on either side but the Primus is exhausted. If attacked now, the best he can do is Dodge. But can anyone or thing reach him? Responding to a yell from Herefordshire, Wheat Wanderer ignores the Peculiari and heads for the Primus. Crash...! He barges the battered cultist. He hits and the Primus fails to Dodge and is hammered to the ground...!
(https://velodoug.files.wordpress.com/2021/04/5a99a58a-35c8-4c38-8956-272621a83bae.jpeg)
Finally, Farmer Grundy attempts to attack the Summus but before he can, the ethereal calm that affected everyone earlier strikes again. End of Morris turn.
Martin kicks off for the cultists and his mandatory card sees him fail a Peril and subsequent Health check. After all his valiant work on the lorry he’s Down, Out and rather awkwardly blocking access to the lorry driving seat. Next is Peculiari and the malign effect of the drawn cards continues. He also fails a Peril and Health check and is Down. The Primus Genus draws a card which prevents him from moving. Will this torture never end...? The only one left to move is the Summus. He at least gets a No Effect card.
Recovery. All the surviving Morris side are at full Health. The Peculiari is successful and gets up but that success is vastly overshadowed by the failure of the Princeps who stays Down and is now Out. When The Summus also fails to recover any Health, it’s obvious that the joint cultist teams cannot win. They have the Primus in good shape, the Peculiari just about upright and not very powerful even at full strength and a weakened Summus. And that’s it. They’ve lost Ephraim and the lorry. It’s time to.....
Run Away.....!
Meanwhile, unnoticed by everyone, a free and relaxed Ephraim leaves the Inn by the front door and plays a merry jig on his accordion. The work of the Grey League of Morris is, for today at least, done.
(https://velodoug.files.wordpress.com/2021/04/29a7651a-6b25-4db9-9a4b-10b122389d23.jpeg)
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Bravo! I have been entertained lol ;D lol
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Bravo! I have been entertained lol ;D lol
Bless you for having got this far. It got so I couldn’t remember what was happening so kudos to you for sticking with it! Thanks.
Doug
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Hooray, a real ripping yarn! :-*
Great fun, great story and I feel we may see these characters again in a new epic about the English countryside?
incarcerated in an inn with his ankles tied but no offer of alcohol
This is obviously against the Geneva Convention, and possibly constitutes a war crime.
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Hooray, a real ripping yarn! :-*
Great fun, great story and I feel we may see these characters again in a new epic about the English countryside?
Hopefully that will be the case although greater events are looming which will likely shatter the bucolic peace of Borsetshire even more than the shenanigans of Grey Morris and cultists. :o
This is obviously against the Geneva Convention, and possibly constitutes a war crime.
Yes, the League of Nations takes a dim view of such things usually but in this case, no action is anticipated. Why? All I’m saying is, do you really think that the League is not an offshoot of International Cultism? Best not to go further. ;)
Doug
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Some 16 months have passed since the start of the story and almost half of that time has been taken up with a game of epic proportions. This is what happens when people go into lockdown in a very serious way.
The idea of a quick game at the club on a Friday night pales into insignificance compared to a Doug ex EM4 extravaganza. Well done for finishing, you must be exhausted with the concerted effort expended in November. To get the full flavour of the story I had to start back on page 1, although the main reason was my failing memory.
Congratulations to the Grey League, fueled by their own distillation of Wobble Juice they deserve a well earned pint of Old Peculiar in the Tap Room of the Green Man.
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Some 16 months have passed since the start of the story and almost half of that time has been taken up with a game of epic proportions. This is what happens when people go into lockdown in a very serious way.
The idea of a quick game at the club on a Friday night pales into insignificance compared to a Doug ex EM4 extravaganza. Well done for finishing, you must be exhausted with the concerted effort expended in November. To get the full flavour of the story I had to start back on page 1, although the main reason was my failing memory.
Congratulations to the Grey League, fueled by their own distillation of Wobble Juice they deserve a well earned pint of Old Peculiar in the Tap Room of the Green Man.
Thanks Old Bean. You know what it’s like - you’ve played a solo game, taken the photos and done the AAR and then lose interest. But there’s a little voice telling you to get the damn thing on LAF and sooner or later, often with teeth clenched hard, you grimly work through it to the final, triumphal (or not) conclusion.That’s when you feel justified in moving on to something different.
Doug
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That has been a great read. Well done on both getting the games done and posting them here.
Wonderful to see full picture AARs on the forum. Thanks Doug
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That has been a great read. Well done on both getting the games done and posting them here.
Wonderful to see full picture AARs on the forum. Thanks Doug
Thanks, Rob. The game was completed in autumn 2020 but preparing for a house move, making a house move, settling in after a house move and waiting to get a shed built all contributed to a gaming vacuum. Allied to bone idleness and you have an AAR over a year in abeyance. :o
Doug
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As the men and woman of the Grey League gather to assess the days events, tend to their wounds and prepare to return to their secret base, events in the wider world threaten to engulf Borsetshire as the rivals in the ongoing civil war cast covetous eyes over this so far untroubled county.…..
The continuing story of country folk will likely next appear on the Inter Wars board as armies (well platoons, at least) gather on the borders of Borsetshire……
Doug
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The continuing story of country folk will likely next appear on the Inter Wars board as armies (well platoons, at least) gather on the borders of Borsetshire……
Looking forward to that! :-*